News, Notices & Prayer points - 27 May 2025

Posted May 27, 2025 in News

News & Notices – 27 May 2025

Below are the news and notices from congregations, the Synod of South Australia and the wider Uniting Church for Tuesday, 27 May 2025 edition of UC e-News

Prayer Points

We pray:

For National Reconciliation Week – we pray for a deepening of understanding, truth-telling, and healing between First Nations peoples and all Australians. May we listen with open hearts, walk together with respect and humility, and be active participants in the work of reconciliation, justice, and hope
For the Anniversary of the 1967 Referendum – we give thanks for this milestone in recognising First Nations peoples. May it inspire ongoing commitment to justice, reconciliation, and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
For National Sorry Day – we pray in remembrance of the Stolen Generations and the deep pain caused by past injustices. May this day be a time of reflection, healing, and commitment to reconciliation, as we seek truth, justice, and a future of unity and respect for all First Nations peoples.

Reconciliation Week 2025

National Reconciliation Week falls between May 27 and June 3 each year. The Uniting Church encourages congregations to support Christ’s call for reconciliation in their worship services over the coming fortnight.

Some congregations may choose to recognise the Sunday closest to Sorry Day (May 26) which means that their focus will be on this coming Sunday May 25. Other congregations may choose to follow the designated Reconciliation Sunday for the Uniting Church in SA, being Sunday 1 June which aligns with a resolution from 2006 (Presbytery/Synod).

Mission Resourcing has compiled a selection of resources for congregations and faith communities to use in their Reconciliation Sunday worship services as an act of covenanting and solidarity with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC). These resources invite us to deeply listen, learn, and reflect on what it means “to be a fellowship of reconciliation “(The Basis of Union) and how we can bring the Covenant to life in South Australia.

We hope that our congregations and faith communities will be inspired to renew their commitment to work together towards the UCA’s Vision of a Just Australia, united in a First Peoples Heart:
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, nurtured and sustained by God before invasion, are celebrated at the very heart of what it means to be Australian. First Peoples’ sovereignty is affirmed; First Peoples have a voice in the decision-making of our country and are living out their right to self-determination. As First and Second Peoples, we walk together, creating socially just and culturally safe relationships, listening and learning from one another.”

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Being a Multicultural Church: 40 years On

In 1985, during its fourth national Assembly meeting, the Uniting Church proudly declared: 'The Uniting Church is a Multicultural Church'. As the 40th anniversary of this declaration approaches, the Uniting Church Assembly is inviting Uniting Church communities to mark 15 June 2025 as the date to commemorate, celebrate and reflect on this commitment. There will also be a vibrant national event in the lead up to 15 June.

National Theological Consultation: 10–12 June

From 10 – 12 June, the Assembly together with the United Theological College and the NSW-ACT Synod Intercultural Ministry Team, are co-organising and co-hosting a National Theological Consultation on the theme, Being a Multicultural Church: 40 Years On.

The three-day program will be held at United Theological College in Sydney, with online streaming and hubs around the country. Mission Resourcing SA will be hosting a HUB at Yarthu Apinthi Brooklyn Park (312 Sir Donald Bradman Drive).

The cost of attending will be $15 on the Tuesday 10 (this will pay for lunch on the day). The dates 10 – 12 June will have no cost; we encourage attendees to bring their own lunch. The registration link will be released soon.

Marking 40 years of multicultural Church declaration – Uniting Church Australia

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Screening Application Help

Are you having trouble starting or completing your screenings? The Synod Screening Team are offering to help you with this process. Bookings are essential.

When: Thursday 5 June 10.00 am till 3.30 pm

Where: Synod office, 212 Pirie Street (phone appointments are also available)

If you would like to book an appointment to get support, please contact the Synod office on 82364200 or email the screening team Turn on Javascript!

If you are unable to get into the Synod office, phone appointments are available, bookings are still essential.

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Copyright Reminders

This is a reminder to all congregations to ensure you have permission to use any content such as photos, artwork, poems, worship songs, etc.... before you use them in worship, on brochures or posters or in any publication.

We have had some cases recently of churches being fined by organisations who are searching the internet for infringements on behalf of copyright owners. Please be aware that if you livestream your worship, anything you put in your presentation is recorded. This appears to be an avenue that is being used to identify copyright infringements.

If you are unsure if you have breached copyright, here are some helpful links with more information:

UCA SA - Content Guidelines

PicRights: How to Deal with a Letter Alleging Copyright Infringement

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Re-kindling partnership with Philippines church

The Mission Resourcing team is discerning how we might re-kindle our partnership with the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP). They have had a long connection with North Luzon and more recently the Middle Luzon jurisdictions of the UCCP. These partnerships have been multi-dimensional and at times creative and life giving. They are wondering what a renewal of our connections with the UCCP might look like.
Interested in being involved or have ideas to share?
Please contact Scott Litchfield: Turn on Javascript!

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AED Update

The Synod is pleased to confirm that we were successful in our collective AED grant application to Preventive Health SA and were awarded the full $1000 grant available per eligible location. As the grant does not cover the full cost of purchasing an AED for each location, we have worked hard to minimise the contribution ‘gap’ cost payable by congregations, to ensure all congregations are able to meet the requirements of the Automated External Defibrillator (Public Access) Act 2022. Eligible congregations will shortly be receiving further information regarding the purchasing process and the options available and are encouraged to complete and return their AED order form(s) as soon as possible. An AED frequently asked questions (FAQs) page will also be added to the Uniting Church website shortly and therefore we ask that you read this first prior to contacting the Synod directly with any questions.

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Save the Date – Resourcing Day!

The Resourcing Day will take place on Friday evening, 17 October, continuing Saturday, 18 October.
If you’re interested, please save the date! More details will be available soon.

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Sally Stamp

A donation of $2,000 has been made to South Pacific School Aid Inc., and $1,000 to the Outback Pastors, using remaining funds from 2024.

It is hoped that another shipment to the Pacific Islands can be supported once SPSA has a pallet ready.

Sincere thanks to everyone who continues to donate stamps—especially full collections no longer required by families. These contributions are greatly appreciated and make a real difference.

Maxine Haines - Email: Turn on Javascript! - Mobile: 0427 972417

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Joseph Haydn's Nelson Mass

Joseph Haydn's Nelson Mass will be presented by the Adelaide Harmony choir on Sunday 1 June 2025 at 2.00pm, in Wesley Uniting church Kent Town. There will also be other instrumental and vocal music by guest artists. Tickets: Adults $35, Concession $30 and child $10.
RSVP: trybooking.com/daysr. Tickets available at the door (card or cash)

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DISC Profile Workshop for Leaders

The DISC Profile is a widely used tool for understanding leadership and workplace behaviours. Dr Craig Mitchell is leading a one-day DISC workshop on Wed 28 May at Uniting College. This event for ministry agents, other church workers and leaders includes completing the accredited DISC Profile and receiving a personalised report, as well as a series of workshop activities. DISC is also an excellent tool for teams. Craig is offering this event in association with Mission Resourcing SA and Uniting College. More details and registration link here

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Aboriginal Spirituality & Culture – Video Series

A new video series featuring Aboriginal theologian Rev Dr Garry Deverell is now available. The series, Aboriginal Spirituality & Culture, includes three short films and a discussion guide exploring key themes: Living on Country, The Dreaming, and Country & Colonisation. These thought-provoking and accessible resources are ideal for church groups seeking to deepen their understanding of Aboriginal spirituality and history.

Produced by Dr Craig Mitchell for Port Phillip East Presbytery (UCA), with support from the former School of Indigenous Studies, University of Divinity.

Free to download at: https://craigmitchell.com.au/aboriginal-culture

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Army Reserve Chaplaincy – Are You Being Called?

Could God be calling you to serve as a part-time Army Reserve chaplain? Vacancies are available in South Australia. Service is flexible, tax-free, and locally based—no postings outside your home area. The work is deeply rewarding. To learn more or speak with a current chaplain, contact Rev John Dansie on 0437 057 968.

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Volunteers Needed – The Corner Uniting Church Op Shop

The Corner Uniting Church is looking for additional volunteers to join the team at our Op Shop. This is a great opportunity to meet people, support the local community, and be part of a welcoming environment.

Whether you have a few hours a week or more time to offer, your help would be greatly appreciated. Training and support are provided.

Please contact Amy Russell on 08 8350 5400 for more information.

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Volunteers Needed – UnitingCare Glenelg

UnitingCare Glenelg is calling for more volunteers to support its vital community programs, including food assistance, hospitality services, and food preparation for Mary’s Kitchen, a free Tuesday evening meal initiative.

Volunteers are especially needed on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays between 10.00 am and 2.00 pm. A minimum commitment of three hours on any of these days is appreciated, and volunteers are welcome to choose the day(s) that best suit their availability.

If you’re interested in making a meaningful difference in the local community, please contact Yelena, the UnitingCare Glenelg Coordinator, at Turn on Javascript!, or reach the office at Turn on Javascript!.

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COMING SOON – Uniting Foundation 2025 Grants

The 2025 grant guidelines and application form will be released by the end of May for new applications, due 31 July 2025.

This year there is $750,000 available - $250,000 for Category A (Enduring) grants and $500,000 for Category B (UC Invest Springboard) grants

More information will be provided soon, please visit: UCA SA - Uniting Foundation

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Clinical Pastoral Education at St Andrew’s Hospital

St Andrew’s Hospital is offering a new unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), beginning Tuesday, July 15. CPE is a specialised training program for those involved in spiritual or pastoral care across various settings—such as hospitals, prisons, schools, aged care, the Defence Force, and faith communities.

The program helps participants develop greater self-awareness and learn how to offer compassionate, informed care to people experiencing distress.

For more information, including costs, please contact Rev Leanne Jenski (Chaplain at St Andrew’s Hospital) at Turn on Javascript! or 0409 516 857.

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ERC Fund Appeal – Supporting Food Security

Cost of Living Pressure and Food Security

The rising cost of living, particularly for food, is a major factor contributing to food insecurity and anxiety in Australia. Many households are forced to prioritise basic needs like housing and utilities, often reducing their spending on food. This can lead to increased stress, relationship problems, and a sense of being overwhelmed.

UnitingCare SA has a network of 11 relief centres across South Australia, providing food relief to those in need. Visitors to our centres find compassion, kindness, and non-judgment from tireless volunteers as they interact with those in need. Some centres provide meals such as morning tea and lunch creating a caring community of people who meet regularly while enjoying a hot beverage, meal, and chat. It takes the anxiety and isolation out of their day, while they wait to receive essential food items, vouchers, pharmaceutical discount vouchers, supermarket vouchers, metro tickets and clothing via the centre’s op shops when available.

You can help.
Your donations ensure that no one in our community is left hungry and alone this winter. Together, we can offer dignity and hope to those who need it most.

Donations over $2 to the UnitingCare Emergency Relief Centre Appeal are tax deductible. Please Click Here to make your donation. You can direct your donation to a specific UnitingCare Relief Centre by mentioning the centre in the donation description, or your donation will be shared across the UnitingCare SA centres.

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Lowitja O'Donoghue’s Story – Event Recording Now Available

On Sunday 18 May, around 120 people attended an event featuring Stuart Rintoul, the authorised biographer of Lowitja O’Donoghue, as part of South Australia’s History Festival. The audience heard insights into how the biography came to be and reflections on Lowitja’s extraordinary life. A panel discussion followed with Stuart Rintoul, Allen Edwards and Michael Court.

The event was hosted and recorded by Unley Allies with First Nations People and Unley Uniting Church. The recording is now available online: https://unleyallies.org/index.php/past-events

For those inspired to learn more, the biography Lowitja by Stuart Rintoul is available at Dymocks and other bookstores: https://www.dymocks.com.au/lowitja-by-stuart-rintoul-and-lowitja-odonoghue-9781760875602

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Women Who Inspire: Stories of Overcoming & Becoming

An upcoming event will celebrate the resilience, wisdom, and lived experiences of three extraordinary South Australian women who have turned personal hardship into powerful purpose.

Included in the ticket:
• A welcome drink (beer, wine, or soft drink)
• Finger food served throughout the evening
• Inspirational talks from speakers sharing stories of strength, hope, and resilience

Attendees will also have the option to make a donation to Women’s Safety Services SA (WSSSA)—a vital organisation supporting women and children experiencing domestic and family violence in South Australia. Donations are tax-deductible.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: Women Who Inspire: Stories of Overcoming & Becoming Tickets, Thu, Jun 12, 2025 at 6:45 PM | Eventbrite

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