10 Reasons why volunteering makes you a better you
During National Volunteer Week, lets take a step back and look at how volunteering offers a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond helping others.
The Synod News Roundup
From local acts of compassion to shared moments of worship and learning, God’s Spirit continues to move across our Synod. Discover the stories that remind us who we are, why we serve, and how we journey together in faith.
Connecting kids and nature
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Synod News and Saltbush Combined
Church Planters Gather for Rest and Prayer at Mittagong Retreat
Five Uniting Church NSW & ACT church-planting teams came together last week for a three-day retreat at The Hermitage in Mittagong, a time set aside for rest, prayer, and honest conversation ahead of the next stage of their planting journeys.
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr Jione Havea
We mark with deep sadness the passing of Rev. Dr Jione Havea, who died suddenly in Tonga on 29 April.
The Ella Centre Celebrates 50 Years of Community, Care and Connection
On April 29, The Ella Centre celebrated a remarkable milestone: 50 years of supporting people in Sydney’s Inner West to live connected, meaningful and joyful lives.
The Ella Centre Marks 50 Years of Community Service
The Ella Centre today marked 50 years of supporting people with disability, older people and those living with dementia across Sydney’s Inner West.
Weaned from Personal Preference, Enchanted by Grace
In a culture shaped by personal preference and digital fragmentation, what does it mean to live by grace? This reflection explores why the Christian vision of grace feels so foreign today and why it matters more than ever
Synod in Session Videos and Reporting
The Synod meets every 18 months to receive reports, discern proposals, and discuss matters that concern the general oversight, direction and life of the Uniting Church in NSW and the ACT.
One Church, One Moment: A Call to Gather the Church in October 2026
More than a standard event, ONE is being shaped as a purposeful gathering, an opportunity for the Church to come together in a time of change, renewal, and shared mission.
Marking the Armenian Genocide: Resources for Congregations this 24 April
Tomorrow, 24 April, is the annual day of observance of the Armenian Genocide. The Friends of Middle East have compiled prayers, films, podcasts and reading to help congregations and individuals engage with this important commemoration.
Holding the Story, Stepping Forward Together
On April 18, members of congregations across the Riverina met at Pilgrim Uniting Church in Wagga Wagga for a gathering.
Easter 6- The Spirit Abiding in Us- John 14:15-21
In the Gospel of John, the Holy Spirit is named as the Paraclete, the Greek translation is the 'one who is alongside you'. Jesus deepens this relationship as the one who is in you.
Transition Commission - April Update
Throughout April, the Transition Commission will be busy hosting nine Town Halls to share the first full draft of the baseline staffing model and hear your feedback.
Easter 7- John 17:1-11- Jesus Still Prays for His People
On the eve of the cross, Jesus lifts His eyes to Heaven, not in fear but with love for His disciples, for His people.
Easter 5 - Believe... in me. - John 14: 1-14
"Do not let your hearts be troubled, believe in God, believe also in me"! Challenging words from the Gospel of John and good for pondering both troubled hearts and belief. Welcome to Word Around the Bush as we explore faith and life together.
Easter 4- The Good Shepherd and The Gate- John 10:1-10
Jesus, The Good Shepherd, leads us and welcomes us in. In Him, we are known, protected and invited into abundant life.
Revitalising Our Congregations: A Strategy for Change
Revitalising our congregations through quality ministry leadership and faithful stewardship
Easter 3 - A Resurrection People - Acts 2: 14a, 36-41
We live in a post-resurrection age, we are invited to be a resurrection people. In this Word Around the Bush we explore Acts 2 where Peter addresses the crowd. For a clear and really helpful exploration of the Gospel reading of Luke 24, go back to Easter Sunday and Rev. Natasha He's message.
Walking on Country Deepens Understanding and Connection
On Saturday 28 March, members of Uniting Churches from across Sydney and the Hunter gathered at the Murrook Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Williamtown.
Step Right Up: Serving at Kids Camp Out
KCO was held at Wedderburn Christian Camp site, and welcomed over 200 people, primary school aged children and their families and leaders, from across the Synod.
Climate - Autumn 2026
What's inside...
Quirky the Quokka Brings Easter Story to Life for Children Across the Church
A creative children’s ministry initiative from Gordon-Pymble Uniting Church is helping young people engage with the meaning of Easter through storytelling.
Service of Thanksgiving Celebrates the Life and Legacy of Dr Keith Douglas Suter AM
A Service of Thanksgiving celebrating the life and witness of Dr Keith Douglas Suter AM has now been made available online.
Hope Lives at Parramatta Mission
Easter is a season of renewal, a time to pause and reflect on the promise of resurrection and the new beginnings made possible through hope, love and connection.
Education as Ministry: Rethinking Schooling for Young People Who Don’t Fit the Mould
Two months into the school year, familiar concerns are not only resurfacing but persisting: attendance rates, school refusal, and student disengagement.
Easter 2 - Doubt and Belief Entwined - John 20: 19-31
In this season of life we think about the way doubt and faith are entwined together and demonstrated in the life of Thomas, disciple and follower of Christ. Welcome to Saltbush and Word Around the Bush.
Easter Sunday
Hope on the Road: Recognizing the Risen Christ!
Palm Sunday - Matthew 21:1-11
Jesus' entry into Jerusalem is a proclamation of the Reign of God. A reign of love, mercy, forgiveness, freedom and reconciliation against oppressive corrupted powers that seek to silence all protest.
Lent 5 - Unbind him and let him go - John 11: 1-45
As we continue in Lent, we comes to John's masterful story of the raising of Lazarus. What a journey this passage takes us on, which holds within it all the reality of human suffering and death and leads us on, towards Jesus' own death on the cross. If we look beyond the obvious, this passage also challenges us in the ways we bind up, rather than liberate for life in its fullness.
Talanoa 2026: Negotiation
The bi-annual Talanoa conference will be held at Naarm (Melbourne, Australia) from April 9–11, 2026 (following the Easter weekend). The theme for Talanoa 2026 is Negotiation.
Lent @ JPUC: Jesus flips the script …
During Lent this year, Jesmond Park Uniting Church in Newcastle, NSW undertook a deeply embodied, creative, and communal spiritual journey shaped around the theme “Jesus flips the script.”
Uniting Unveils Corporate Hijab
One of Australia’s largest Christian community services providers is introducing an optional uniform hijab for practicing Muslim women in its 12,000-strong workforce.
Parramatta Mission - Renewal, Hope and Transformation
For more than 50 years, Parramatta Mission has been a place of welcome, hope and practical support for people experiencing crisis.
The Kingdom of God is Like … a Table
The idea was simple: create a space where everyone is welcome and everyone is fed.
Transition Commission - March Update
The Transition Commission has begun an important phase of consultation with Presbyteries.
Resurrection Begins in the Darkness
This Easter, the Moderator, Rev. Faaimata (Mata) Havea Hiliau, invites us into a familiar but often overlooked truth: resurrection doesn't begin with triumph.
Police Forum for Faith Leaders
On Wednesday, March 4 over 100 faith leaders attended a Terrorism Protection Unit Safe Places Forum for Places of Worship
Celebrating With Love to the World, “the gem of the Uniting Church”
WLW is a daily Bible Study guide following the ecumenical lectionary, written by Australians (mostly Uniting Church), for the church in the southern hemisphere, with attention to the issues that matter most for folks downunder.
Lismore Business Chaplaincy Project Concludes After Years of Community Support
The Disaster Recovery Chaplaincy Network (DRCN) has wound-up its Lismore Business Chaplaincy Project.
Light overcoming darkness at the 13th Iftar Dinner
More than 100 people of different faiths and cultural backgrounds gathered at Wesley Castle Hill Uniting Church for the 13th annual Iftar Dinner “United in Hope” on Wednesday 4 March.
Transition Commission – February Update
February has been a significant and productive month for the Transition Commission, with important steps taken as we continue preparing for our Transition to 3P.
Uniting’s My Aged Care Forum: Bridging Gaps and Empowering Communities
Uniting, in partnership with Mt Colah Uniting Church, hosted a My Aged Care Forum on 17 February, bringing together congregation members and the wider community for a morning designed to empower attendees with practical, accessible information on navigating the aged care system.
Insurance Contributions Issued for the Period Covering 31/10/25 to 31/10/26
Insurance is in place for all Congregation assets and risks including Property, Motor, Public Liability, Volunteer Personal Accident and Hall Hirers Liability.
Lent 4- From Blindness to Sight: The Shepherd who leads us through the dark- John 9:1-41 & Psalm 23
Blindness is these passages is not only about eyes, but about the heart. Sight is not just vision but trust. Christ, our Good Shepherd, leads us through the valleys of confusion, suffering and doubt.
World Day of Prayer: The Thread That Holds Us Together
The World Day of Prayer on 6 March invites us to notice something we often forget: prayer isn’t only an individual spiritual practice; it’s a communal act.
Lent 3 Transformational Conversations
The woman at well encountered Jesus. They had a rich and transformational conversation. Her life would never be the same. How are the conversations you have with God or about God going?
Lent Event 2026: 40 Days of Faith-Filled Action
As the Christian season of Lent begins today, congregations and faith communities are being invited to take part in the annual Lent Event 2026.
In conversation with General Secretary Rev. Dr. Peter Walker
For Rev. Dr. Peter Walker, the heart of the Uniting Church is found in its congregations. It is there, he says, that God’s work in the world is lived out quietly and faithfully.
Stepping into the 3P Future
An Update from Sharon Flynn, the Transition Commission Chair
Christian Leadership in Transition
Transitions reveal what we collectively believe about the church.
Reflections from Canberra Godly Play Training
The Pulse team were so excited to be able to run a 3-day Godly Play Core Training in Canberra last month. 10 curious participants from different congregations, ministries and walks of life gathered at the Godly Play Room at Radford College together with our Trainers Carolyn Handley and Judyth Rogers, assisted by Renee Simpfendorfer and Fr Christopher Lewis.
Easter time for the Young at Heart
Lent starts with ashes and reminding us, that we are God’s children. From dust we came and to dust we shall return. In a world that tells young people to perform, achieve, brand themselves and perform.
kitchen sink
kitchen sink
Rest and Truth – Retreat Yourself 2026
Fifty two young(ish) people came together to retreat from a world where we consume and are consumed by busyness and our choice was to unravel our identity from the ways we make money, the titles and tribes we engage with in the world.
Lent 2 - Conversations of Life - John 3: 1-17
As we continue in this season of Lent, we come to the remarkable conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus. This conversation and its words through the Gospel writer John, is deep and challenging (of course)! It's easy to hear and think simplistic answers when we ask "what does Jesus mean when he talks of "being born from above"". So let us hear the Word and ponder this conversation for our own faith and lives.
Tumut Property Sale Enables New Missional Opportunities
Former Tumut Uniting Church property continues serving the community through its sale to Tumut Regional Family Services, supporting local wellbeing and future mission.
Marking a New Chapter: The Induction of Ann Perrin as Leader of the Central Presbytery
Rev. Ann Perrin was inducted as Presbytery Transition Leader for the Central Presbytery on January 31 at Hoskins Memorial Uniting Church Lithgow.
Lent 1: Into the Wilderness Matt 4: 1-11
The wilderness is where illusions fall away and where the truth, about God and ourselves, is laid bare. Lent calls us forward in hope.
Lotu Festival 2026: Climate and Culture
The inaugural Lotu Festival brought 300+ people to St. Stephen’s Uniting Church on 25 Jan 2026, to celebrate minoritized cultures and call for climate justice.
The Transfiguration of Jesus Matthew 17:1- 9
The transfiguration of Jesus was an overwhelming experience for Peter and the disciples. So much so that Peter tried to control the moment by suggesting building booths. How often do we try and control the sacred with our own agenda, especially when we are meant to only listen.
Be-friending Across Borders
BeFriending is about nurturing relationships across borders, cultures, and histories. This reflection offers background to the Friends of the Middle East (FME), a network within our Synod committed to deepening connections with churches and communities across the Middle East.
Rev. Dr. Peter Walker inducted as General Secretary of the Synod of NSW and ACT
Rev. Dr. Peter Walker has been inducted as General Secretary of the Uniting Church Synod of NSW and the ACT during a ceremony attended by family, friends and colleagues, including former General Secretaries, Moderators and Presidents.
Understanding Other Cultures: A Princeton Travel Course
What do we do in order to understand people who are different from us?
Faith leaders unite at Governor-General’s Interfaith Dinner to promote inclusion, education, and social cohesion
This week the Moderator joined faith leaders from across Australia to gather at the invitation of Her Excellency the Governor-General, Ms Sam Mostyn AC, for an interfaith dinner focused on unity, religious freedom, and social cohesion.
We Are Still Capable of Being a Better Community
Bondi Pavilion today felt like a meeting place of the world.
Epiphany 5 – The Salt of the Earth – Matthew 5: 13-20
Let us read this passage, “you are the salt of the earth”, not as individuals, but to reflect on these words of Jesus being for the church; the Christian community. Welcome to Saltbush, Uniting the Scattered Community as we explore life and faith together.
Reimagining faith, church and theology: Who are the "edge-walkers" today?
“Someone should write a book showcasing these incredible people who are doing things differently in the church and in their faith”. We can’t remember who made that statement but that’s what started our journey towards publishing our first book Edge-walkers: Reimagining faith, church and theology. Little did we know what a long journey it would be and just how much work goes into publishing a book!
Rev Dr Michael Earl appointed Lecturer in Practical Theology & Ministry Studies at UTC
United Theological College is all set to welcome a new voice in theological formation next year, with Rev Dr Michael Earl appointed as Lecturer in Practical Theology & Ministry Studies . He will commence in the role on 2 February 2026.
Put Ochre On Them
Aunty Evelyn’s plea was made as part of her presentation at the Climate and Intersectionality seminar that was held at the Centre for Ministry, North Parramatta.
Epiphany 4 Matthew 5: 1-12 Blessed Are the Unimpressive
The Unimpressive- capturing the essence of those who may be overlooked or underestimated by worldly standards. The Beatitudes elevate these individuals, showing that true Blessedness comes not from external achievements or social status, but from inner qualities and a heart aligned with God.
We invite you to explore the Season of Epiphany
No Word Around the Bush for January BUT we invite you to explore the Season of Epiphany Word Around the Bush will have a break in January BUT we invite you to explore what the epiphany of Christ means to you.
Guidelines, Support and Resources Following the Bondi Tragedy
Resources to support congregations and faith leaders.
A Pastoral Reflection from the Moderator Elect, Rev. Pablo Nunez on the Bondi Attacks
The Bondi incident reminds us – painfully - that we are not as safe or as distant from one another’s suffering as we sometimes pretend.
A Pastoral Statement from the Moderator, Rev. Faaimata Havea Hiliau on the Bondi Attacks
In the wake of the events at Bondi Beach and the loss of life, we offer our deep condolences to those who are grieving and to all who have been injured.
Bidwill Uniting Walking Alongside Western Sydney's Most Vulnerable
In Western Sydney’s Mount Druitt, Bidwill Uniting is a small suburban ministry doing work that far exceeds its size. It may not have the numbers or resources of larger parishes, but it has built a significant network of trust and practical support that continues to play a significant role in the community.
The Road Less Travelled: How Regional Ministries are Walking Together
The Uniting Church Synod of NSW and ACT is entering a period of change in how it supports ministry across rural, regional and remote areas. The shift responds to the emerging needs of regional communities where congregation numbers are dwindling, structures are deteriorating, and the shape of ministry is evolving.
Christmas 1 Massacre of the Innocents Matthew 2:13-23
The Christmas story (without the sentimentality) speaks into our human condition. Our frustrations, fear, joy and anxieties. Sadly it also speaks into the remorseless violence that we have witnessed over thousands of years and continues today. Into our human frailty God breaks-in, as God is being God, the One who brings love, peace, joy and hope in the form of a baby.
The Transition Commission Begins Its Work
A full complement of the Transition Commission met for the first time on 9 December, with the Chair, Sharon Flynn and the three Presbytery Transition Leaders offering early reflections on what they have been doing and hearing across the church.
A New Heaven and a New Earth
As we move into Advent and Christmas, and when we read from Revelation at the beginning of the new year, we recall God’s hope for us, and our hope in God.
Call for Submissions: Society of Biblical Literature International Meeting Coming to Australia in 2026
Australia will host one of the world’s most significant gatherings of biblical scholars next year, as the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) brings its 2026 International Meeting to Adelaide in July.
Christmas Day – Luke 2: 1-20
Welcome to the account from the Gospel of Luke of the birth of Jesus. Luke invites us into this story, that like the shepherds, we might be amazed at this “thing that has taken place.” And, to be amazed, is to be transformed. Welcome to Word Around the Bush on this Christmas Day with Saltbush, Uniting the Scattered Community.
Advent 4- Matthew 1:18-25- The Gift of Emmanuel: Embracing the Mystery of Christmas
The Gift of Emmanuel is more than a historical event; it is a call to embrace the mystery, find hope in the darkness and live a life transformed by the love of God.
Uniting Church Members Join the Moderator in Call for a Rising Tide of Climate Action
Last weekend (29 November) dozens of Uniting Church members joined hundreds of others at the Rising Tide climate protest at Newcastle Harbour.
Just One Gift Can Change a Life This Christmas
Western Sydney’s grassroots community services are joining forces this Christmas to launch the Just One campaign—a collective appeal showing how one act of kindness can change the course of a life.
Molonglo Church Plant: Building Community in Canberra
The Molonglo Church Plant team is building connections in Canberra’s Molonglo Valley, creating welcoming communities where people can feel “at home” and notice God’s presence in everyday life.
A Celebration of Creativity at Orange Uniting Church
The final weekend of November brought colour, imagination, and community spirit to Orange Uniting Church.
Jione Havea Receives Prestigious International Mentoring Award
At the recent Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Annual Meeting in Boston, Jione Havea received one of the most significant mentoring honours in global biblical scholarship.
Maitland’s Fresh Vision for Church
For Kevin and Pearl, the Maitland church plant is part of a larger question: What is the future of the Uniting Church?
Every Child Deserves a Canvas
Wesley Missions 3rd Annual Rising Artists Christmas Exhibition
Mudgee and Rylestone: Building Community and Planning for the Future
The Cudgegong Cluster gathered on 22 November in Mudgee Uniting Church for a retreat that brought leaders, and members together to clarify their mission, reflect on their identity, and prepare for a future shaped by significant structural change across the Uniting Church.
Advent 3 Is Jesus the One Matthew 11:2-11
John’s questioning whether Jesus is the one or should he wait for another, reflects the raw honesty of the Gospels. It allows us the freedom to question, explore and discover who this Jesus is in our own lives and the life of the Christian community. As Jesus answers John, he also answers us, ‘see and hear for yourselves’.
MEDIA RELEASE: Uniting’s disappointment at COP31 hosting announcement
Uniting is disappointed at Australia and the Pacific’s unsuccessful joint bid to host COP31 next year and sees it as recognition of the Australian Government’s half measures when it comes to acting on the climate crisis and phasing out fossil fuels.
A New Day is Dawning: Oasis Communities
Something new is emerging in the Sutherland Shire, a humble, hopeful movement of people called Oasis Communities
Share the Warmth of Junction 142 this Christmas
Is there any image more symbolic of the Christmas story than finding comfort and sanctuary in times of vulnerability? While we celebrate the season of goodwill in our comfortable homes, a community in the Blue Mountains, supported by the Leura Uniting Church, is actively ensuring that this fundamental human need is met for those experiencing hardship.
Seventieth Anniversary Celebrated at Wesley Uniting Church, Forrest
The seventieth anniversary of the opening of the Methodist National Memorial Church in Forrest, ACT, was joyfully celebrated last Sunday.
Gender-based violence (GBV) and Earth
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence run from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day). On these days, people are encouraged to speak up and work against views, teachings, traditions, and cultures – including religious and churched ones – that ignore, hide, and may even encourage, gender-based violence (GBV).
Advent 2 – A Voice Crying Out – Matthew 3: 1-12
We continue in Advent as we begin to hear the voice crying out in the wilderness - John the Baptist. In our Word Around the Bush we think about our expectations and hopes alongside times of uncertainty and searching. In our liturgy for this week, we also use John's cry as our cry in prayer for others and the world.
From Foundations to the Future
In August 2025, Concord Uniting Church marks a remarkable milestone: 100 years of serving as a spiritual home and community hub. For a century, the church has witnessed the ebb and flow of life that has evolved alongside the diverse communities it serves.
Please join the Moderator and Moderator- Elect for the Synod Prayer Service on Climate
Through the history of the biblical writings, the community of faith has been moved to pray together when facing important decisions, great challenges or times of crisis.
Synod Growth Investment Fund Grants – Important Update for 2026
The Synod Growth Investment Fund exists to support growth in discipleship, relationships, number and impact within and through congregations. Each year the fund resources a number of projects submitted through an open application process. There will be a change to the Growth Fund application process for 2026 in regards to Strategic Grants.
Planting Spirit-Led Ministry in Parramatta
Wesley Western Sydney will publicly launch in Parramatta in April 2026, moved by prayerful conviction, and the great need of the gospel amidst a growing migrant community there
Advent 1: Be Vigilant! Matt 24: 36-44
As we enter into the season of Advent, we wait not passively but actively. We are called to be vigilant!