Churches, Denominations and Religions: UC National Update 2 - 8 Feb - Dwelling Podcast Episode 3, Tonga Update, Aged Care Crisis and IWD callout

Thursday, February 3, 2022

UC National Update 2 - 8 Feb - Dwelling Podcast Episode 3, Tonga Update, Aged Care Crisis and IWD callout

Today we release Episode 3 of the Dwelling Podcast. President Rev Sharon Hollis shares a conversation with Pastor Phil Smith from BELLS Neighbourhood Church, a faith community of the Uniting Church, in partnership with Caloundra Uniting Church on the Sunshine Coast.

Phil shares his journey in the Uniting Church and how BELLS came about as a fresh expression of Christian community, lived out in the homes, taverns and parks of their local community. They discuss what it takes to grow and nurture life-giving communities of faith, the driving question for the Act2 conversation about the future of the Uniting Church.

When asked what advice he might give others who want to try something new or who see a need in their community, Phil answers, just give it a go, "What's the best thing that could happen?"

Listen In

Update on Tonga Disaster Response

Uniting Church members have raised more than $125,000 so far to help people impacted by the tsunami disaster in Tonga. Thank you!
UnitingWorld Project Manager Aletia Dundas has provided an update on how our partners the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga are supporting affected communities. Follow the link to send prayers and support via an e-card that UnitingWorld will deliver to our friends in Tonga.

'They deserve so much more respect'

The aged care workforce crisis needs more than a one-off stimulus payment, writes Chief Executive Officer of Uniting NSW.ACT Tracey Burton.
While welcoming the bonus payments announced by the Government this week, Ms Burton said greater support is needed to correct the undervaluing of the aged care workforce and chronic low rates of pay.

National conversation on aged care crisis

Uniting Friends of Ageing (UFA) is holding their second national conversation at 4 pm (AEDT) Thursday 10 February via Zoom. UFA is a national network of Uniting Church people concerned about ageing and aged care, established by UnitingCare Australia. Join them to discuss local concerns as well as national developments in aged care, COVID, and the May Federal election. Email Warren Talbot to connect or share your concerns.

IWD 2022: help us celebrate Uniting Church women

To mark International Women’s Day on 8 March this year, we want to celebrate and acknowledge the immense contribution of Uniting Church women. We're inviting anyone across our national church to submit the names of inspiring UCA women they know who are making an impact through leadership, witness and service. Join the conversation on Facebook, head to our website for more information and fill out our short submission form.

Preparing for an intergenerational Lent and Easter

Looking for Lent and Easter resources geared to children, families or intergenerational community? The February Children and Families Ministry Update from Chris Barnett in the Synod of VIC/TAS, and these resources provide inspiration for creative, thoughtful and engaging gatherings across this important season of the church.

A Prayer in the Spirit of the Lunar New Year

In the spirit of the Lunar New Year in the Year of the Tiger, Assembly Theologian In Residence Rev Dr Ji Zhang shares this prayer for renewal, compassion and courage in the midst of the challenges we face at this time.

JOBS

Leadership positions at the World Council of Churches

The World Council of Churches currently has openings for three significant leadership roles: program director for Unity and Mission, program director for Public Witness and Diakonia, and director of the Commission on Faith and Order.

Communications Coordinator - Uniting Church Synod of Queensland

The Synod of Queensland is seeking a Communications Coordinator for a proactive and high energy role focused on building communication channels, trusted connections, and clear, credible and uplifting messaging.

Join us in prayer for

The people of Tonga and the work of our Church partners responding to the tsunami disaster.
Uniting Church communities engaged in fresh expressions of Christian community and all those who are following the call of the Spirit to serve the communities around them.

The Act2 conversation. May we listen to the leading of the Spirit as we consider how we order our life, so we can be committed to transforming lives and communities in God's love.
Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Western Sahara, Tunisia: as part of the Ecumenical Prayer Cycle led by the World Council of Churches featuring every region of the world over the course of a year.
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