Uniting Church in Australia - Gen Sec Commissioning, Week of Prayer continues, Older Persons Sunday, Appeal for Lebanon & more in UC National News 2-8 October

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2-8 October 2024 National Update Your weekly snapshot of the Uniting Church in Australia

Our Featured Story ASSEMBLY LEADERSHIP Commissioning of Andrew Johnson as Assembly General Secretary The Uniting Church in Australia Assembly is delighted to extend an invitation to the Commissioning of Andrew Johnson as Assembly General Secretary. All are invited to attend the service, which will be held a 3pm AEDT on Saturday 23 November at Gungahlin Uniting Church north of Canberra. It will also be live-streamed. The 17th Assembly joyfully appointed Mr Johnson as the new Assembly General Secretary in July this year, following a rigorous nomination process. Currently the Act2 Project Lead, Andrew is a deeply committed member of the Uniting Church and an established strategy, change and governance leader. RVPS are invited by 8 November and the live stream link will be made available soon. Read more and RSVP now WEEK OF PRAYER FOR PEACE Day 4: Week of Prayer for the Middle East The Uniting Church Week of Prayer for Peace in the Middle East is now half way through. In case you missed it, read the President's Pastoral Statement which includes daily prayers. We urge all across the Uniting Church to continue to pray for the Middle East, and for UCA members who hold grave fears for their families in the region. The President will close the Week of Prayer live on the Assembly Facebook page, joined by UCA leaders including Rev Gaby Kobrossi whose family is seeking refuge from Beirut. Join them live on Saturday 5 October at 12pm AEST. MIDDLE EAST Emergency Appeal for Lebanon Bankstown District Uniting Church in NSW has launched an emergency appeal for Lebanon. With many thousands injured and approximately 1.2 million people displaced following continual strikes by Israel, funds will support the congregation's partner churches to meet vast needs including supplies for shelters and meals. OLDER PERSONS SUNDAY Celebrate the wisdom of older people This Sunday 6 October is the Uniting Church Older Persons Sunday, when our communities are invited to celebrate our older people, challenge ageism and reflect on how we can nurture hope and dignity for all ages. The 2024 worship resource is out now. Although the first Sunday in October is the suggested date to celebrate, communities can mark it at any time. CHURCH GOVERNANCE New Discipline Regulations The Assembly Standing Committee (ASC) has approved a new set of Regulations concerning discipline within the Uniting Church in Australia. These new regulations will replace the current Section 5 and will come into operation on 1 January 2025. FRONTIER SERVICES On the front lines of support In remote Australia, domestic violence can be exacerbated by isolation, economic stress, and limited access to services. These challenges often make it harder for victims to seek help. Our Bush Chaplains are on the ground, offering vital support, but they need your help. Your donations make it possible to reach those who need it most.

Intergenerational Intergen October Update The new ministry update from Intergen has events, resources and opportunities aplenty to enrich your ministry with all generations in your community. National Council of Churches NCCA calls for prayer The National Council of Churches in Australia released a new public statement this week, inviting Christians to unite in fervent and continuous prayer for peace and justice.

In case you missed it... News and story highlights from the last couple of weeks Resources for the Anniversary of the National Apology to Survivors Forum to mark one year since the Referendum Fijian Lectionary resources Positions Chief Financial Officer - UnitingCare QLD Take responsibility for the financial strategy and provide long-term value creation for the organisation. Civil Chaplain - Uniting NSW.ACT Seeking a pastoral leader to serve as Chaplain at Acmena Youth Justice Centre in Grafton NSW. Upcoming Dates 29 September - 5 October: UCA Week of Prayer for Peace in the Middle East 6 October: UCA Older Person's Sunday 22 October: Anniversary of the Apology to Survivors of Insitutional Child Sexual Abuse Check out the 2024 Assembly Calendar more dates across the year Join us in prayer for The people of the Middle East amid violence, suffering and displacement. May God's peace and justice prevail. Older people in the Uniting Church as we give thanks to God for their wisdom and contributions this Older Persons Sunday. Columbia, Ecuador, Venezuela as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle. How are you celebrating the Season of Creation? Email us! Facebook X Instagram Website Email