{"id":7117,"date":"2019-08-15T15:03:02","date_gmt":"2019-08-15T05:03:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/?page_id=7117"},"modified":"2019-08-15T15:03:02","modified_gmt":"2019-08-15T05:03:02","slug":"people","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/church.debug.victas.uca.org.au\/?page_id=7117","title":{"rendered":"People &#038; Opinion"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n<h1>People &amp; Opinion<\/h1>\r\n<p><a title=\"Different paths on journey\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/different-paths-on-journey\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Paul tonson 1522x1080\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Paul-Tonson-1522x1080.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Paul tonson 1522x1080 in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h2><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Different paths on journey\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/different-paths-on-journey\/\">Different paths on journey<\/a><\/h2>\r\n<h5>May 28, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>The question of how do we respond to others in a society that is increasingly secular is examined by former Uniting Church Minister Dr Paul Tonson.<\/p>\r\n<p><a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/different-paths-on-journey\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li data-filter=\"*\">All<\/li>\r\n<li tabindex=\"0\" data-filter=\".uabb-masonary-cat-401\">People<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><a title=\"Focus is on new faces\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/focus-is-on-new-faces\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Crosslight q and a david and sandy e1712022406510 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Crosslight-Q-and-A-David-and-Sandy-e1712022406510-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Crosslight q and a david and sandy e1712022406510 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Focus is on new faces\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/focus-is-on-new-faces\/\">Focus is on new faces<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 5, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>The equipping Leadership for Mission unit recently welcomed Rev David Kim and Rev Sandy Brodine to the team. David and Sandy spoke to Crosslight about what they bring to their respective roles. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/focus-is-on-new-faces\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Mel\u2019s mission statement\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/mels-mission-statement\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Crosslight magazine mel perkins bushfire e1710900692455 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Crosslight-magazine-Mel-Perkins-bushfire-e1710900692455-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Crosslight magazine mel perkins bushfire e1710900692455 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Mel\u2019s mission statement\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/mels-mission-statement\/\">Mel\u2019s mission statement<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 3, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>Whether it&#8217;s assisting congregations in how best to cope with natural disaster, or guiding people along the path to lay leadership, Mel Perkins is doing important work in her role within the equipping Leadership for Mission unit. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/mels-mission-statement\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Hope and the hub\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/hope-and-the-hub\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Crosslight magazine st kilda alex sangster and john tansey custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Crosslight-magazine-St-Kilda-Alex-Sangster-and-John-Tansey-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Crosslight magazine st kilda alex sangster and john tansey custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Hope and the hub\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/hope-and-the-hub\/\">Hope and the hub<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 2, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>Uniting Church Ministers Alex Sangster and John Tansey, with a group of willing volunteers, are doing wonderful work helping some of St Kilda&#8217;s most vulnerable residents. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/hope-and-the-hub\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"A week in the life of \u2026\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of-4\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Crosslight magazine michele lees one e1710903128935 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Crosslight-magazine-Michele-Lees-one-e1710903128935-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Crosslight magazine michele lees one e1710903128935 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"A week in the life of \u2026\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of-4\/\">A week in the life of \u2026<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Mar 21, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>From administrative work to hosting aged care worship, and everything in between, a week in the life of Rev Michele Lees is always busy. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of-4\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Blessed are the poor in spirit\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Bill loader article photo custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Bill-Loader-article-photo-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Bill loader article photo custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Blessed are the poor in spirit\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit\/\">Blessed are the poor in spirit<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 27, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>During our most vulnerable moments, it is God&#8217;s love that acknowledges our humanity, writes Emeritus Professor Bill Loader. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Game, set and match\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/game-set-and-match\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Gaming one custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Gaming-one-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Gaming one custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Game, set and match\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/game-set-and-match\/\">Game, set and match<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 20, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>Uniting Church Minister Will Nicholas and equipping Leadership for Mission team member Kelly Skilton share a love of gaming and the possibilities it opens up along the faith journey. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/game-set-and-match\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Life, love and laughter\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/life-love-and-laughter\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of New tracy two e1708036775914 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/New-Tracy-two-e1708036775914-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of New tracy two e1708036775914 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Life, love and laughter\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/life-love-and-laughter\/\">Life, love and laughter<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 16, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>Uniting AgeWell volunteer Tracy Barron has known difficult times, but a positive attitude has been a constant companion on her journey. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/life-love-and-laughter\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Christianity\u2019s big questions\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/christianitys-big-questions\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Christian cross e1707092610502 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Christian-cross-e1707092610502-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Christian cross e1707092610502 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Christianity\u2019s big questions\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/christianitys-big-questions\/\">Christianity\u2019s big questions<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 15, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>Rev Associate Professor Geoff Thompson from Pilgrim Theological College asks us to pause and consider some questions around what exactly is Christianity? <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/christianitys-big-questions\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Lent and the purpose of mission\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lent-and-the-purpose-of-mission\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Lent cross e1706737472151 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Lent-cross-e1706737472151-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Lent cross e1706737472151 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Lent and the purpose of mission\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lent-and-the-purpose-of-mission\/\">Lent and the purpose of mission<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 12, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>Ahead of the beginning of Lent on Wednesday, Rev Nigel Hanscamp invites us to consider how a sense of mission might be at the forefront of our thinking. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lent-and-the-purpose-of-mission\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"New take on old songs\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/new-take-on-old-songs\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Rod one e1706661268203 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Rod-one-e1706661268203-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Rod one e1706661268203 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"New take on old songs\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/new-take-on-old-songs\/\">New take on old songs<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 9, 2024<\/h5>\r\n<p>Former Moderator Rod Horsfield&#8217;s book &#8216;Songs in Season&#8217; offers new words for some well-known songs of faith. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/new-take-on-old-songs\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Reflections on Christmas\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/reflections-on-christmas-2\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Xmas two custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Xmas-two-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Xmas two custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Reflections on Christmas\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/reflections-on-christmas-2\/\">Reflections on Christmas<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 22, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>As Christmas Day nears and we reflect on what that means to us as Christians, some Uniting Church leaders have offered their perspective on what the birth of Jesus represents to them. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/reflections-on-christmas-2\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"The present of presence\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/the-present-of-presence\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Presence photo custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Presence-photo-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Presence photo custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"The present of presence\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/the-present-of-presence\/\">The present of presence<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 13, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Tecoma Uniting Church member Diane Gow offers some heartfelt words about the importance of being with people in difficult times. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/the-present-of-presence\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"A week in the life of \u2026\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of-3\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Craig madden custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Craig-Madden-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Craig madden custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"A week in the life of \u2026\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of-3\/\">A week in the life of \u2026<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 12, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>As a Senior Prison Chaplain, Rev Craig Madden&#8217;s normal week is a busy one, as he offers chaplaincy support to prisoners around Melbourne. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of-3\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Salesi set to step up\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/salesi-set-to-step-up\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Salesi crosslight e1701817812455 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Salesi-Crosslight-e1701817812455-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Salesi crosslight e1701817812455 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Salesi set to step up\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/salesi-set-to-step-up\/\">Salesi set to step up<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 8, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Moderator-elect Rev Salesi Faupula is passionate about multicultural ministry, a passion which will guide much of his work when he becomes Moderator from mid-2025. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/salesi-set-to-step-up\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Write stuff for academics\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/write-stuff-for-academics\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Books two custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Books-two-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Books two custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Write stuff for academics\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/write-stuff-for-academics\/\">Write stuff for academics<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Oct 16, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Pilgrim Theological College academics Rev Dr Sally Douglas and Rev Associate Professor Robyn Whitaker discuss their respective books published earlier this year. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/write-stuff-for-academics\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"History at her fingertips\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/history-at-her-fingertips\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Karen one e1691365878343 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Karen-one-e1691365878343-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Karen one e1691365878343 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"History at her fingertips\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/history-at-her-fingertips\/\">History at her fingertips<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 8, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Wesley Hobart Museum offers a wonderful slice of Tasmania&#8217;s history, and co-ordinator Rev Karen Woolford is in the perfect place to appreciate it all. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/history-at-her-fingertips\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Our faithful servant retires\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/our-faithful-servant-retires\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Isabel one custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Isabel-one-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Isabel one custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Our faithful servant retires\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/our-faithful-servant-retires\/\">Our faithful servant retires<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 7, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Associate General Secretary Isabel Thomas Dobson, who will retire on September 30, reflects on a long and distinguished period of service with the Uniting Church in Tasmania and Victoria. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/our-faithful-servant-retires\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Strength from adversity\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/strength-from-adversity\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Jacob mag one custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Jacob-mag-one-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Jacob mag one custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Strength from adversity\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/strength-from-adversity\/\">Strength from adversity<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 2, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>From a childhood spent in a Kenyan refugee camp to being honoured for outstanding humanitarian work as an adult, faith has been a constant companion on Dr Jacob Atem&#8217;s remarkable journey. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/strength-from-adversity\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"A week in the life of \u2026\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Fiona diary two e1690750193280 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Fiona-diary-two-e1690750193280-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Fiona diary two e1690750193280 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"A week in the life of \u2026\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of\/\">A week in the life of \u2026<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jul 31, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Rev Fiona Morrison, Resource Minister across the Cradle Coast Cluster in Tasmania, shares what makes up a busy week in the role. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Marion makes a difference\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/marion-makes-a-difference\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Marion one e1687304350753 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Marion-one-e1687304350753-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Marion one e1687304350753 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Marion makes a difference\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/marion-makes-a-difference\/\">Marion makes a difference<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 23, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Manningham UC member Marion Bailes is strongly committed to helping refugees and asylum seekers make a home for themselves in their adopted country. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/marion-makes-a-difference\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Power to the people\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/power-to-the-people\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Claire power one e1687141175671 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Claire-power-one-e1687141175671-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Claire power one e1687141175671 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Power to the people\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/power-to-the-people\/\">Power to the people<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 20, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Uniting Church member Claire Harvey is backing the battle against climate change in her role with sustainable energy provider CoPower. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/power-to-the-people\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Spotlight on gender fluidity\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/spotlight-on-gender-fluidity\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Gender pic custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Gender-pic-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Gender pic custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Spotlight on gender fluidity\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/spotlight-on-gender-fluidity\/\">Spotlight on gender fluidity<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 20, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Retired academic Ross Mouer poses some questions around the issues of sexuality and gender identification in the Bible. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/spotlight-on-gender-fluidity\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"A week in the life of a Minister\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of-a-minister\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Diary one custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Diary-one-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Diary one custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"A week in the life of a Minister\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of-a-minister\/\">A week in the life of a Minister<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 7, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Wonthaggi and Inverloch Minister Rev Deacon Wendy Elson shared with Crosslight magazine what&#8217;s involved in the busy week of a Uniting Church Minister. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-week-in-the-life-of-a-minister\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Let\u2019s talk about death\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lets-talk-about-death\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Death one custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Death-one-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Death one custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Let\u2019s talk about death\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lets-talk-about-death\/\">Let\u2019s talk about death<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 4, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>New Testament Professor Dr Greg Carey writes about that most perplexing of questions: what awaits us when we die? <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lets-talk-about-death\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"When science meets faith\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/when-science-meets-faith\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Jesus one custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Jesus-one-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Jesus one custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"When science meets faith\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/when-science-meets-faith\/\">When science meets faith<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 4, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Rev Associate Professor Geoff Thompson replies to Rev Bob Thomas, who has suggested that resurrection is synonymous with new creation. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/when-science-meets-faith\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Nick Cave and the church\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/nick-cave-and-the-church\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Cave one e1680135764240 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Cave-one-e1680135764240-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Cave one e1680135764240 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Nick Cave and the church\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/nick-cave-and-the-church\/\">Nick Cave and the church<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Mar 31, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Attending a recent Nick Cave concert had Richmond Uniting Church Minister Sally Douglas contemplating the nature of religious experiences. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/nick-cave-and-the-church\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Ten days and counting\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/ten-days-and-counting\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Jonathan one e1677196477767 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Jonathan-one-e1677196477767-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Jonathan one e1677196477767 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Ten days and counting\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/ten-days-and-counting\/\">Ten days and counting<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 24, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>The Synod&#8217;s Justice and International Mission cluster is driving a campaign to ensure NDIS patients receive the support and accommodation they need as quickly as possible. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/ten-days-and-counting\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Stephen pays it forward\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/stephen-pays-it-forward\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Steven one e1676863064232 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Steven-one-e1676863064232-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Steven one e1676863064232 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Stephen pays it forward\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/stephen-pays-it-forward\/\">Stephen pays it forward<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 20, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Tasmanian UC member Stephen Ives is passing on the traits of empathy and selflessness in his work helping small-scale farmers in Vietnam. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/stephen-pays-it-forward\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Talkin\u2019 about my generation\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/talkin-about-my-generation\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Kelly one custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Kelly-one-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Kelly one custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Talkin\u2019 about my generation\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/talkin-about-my-generation\/\">Talkin\u2019 about my generation<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 16, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>A new role for Murrumbeena UC&#8217;s Kelly Skilton means she can continue to ensure young voices are heard within the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/talkin-about-my-generation\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Taking the helm at eLM\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/taking-the-helm-at-elm\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Duncan two e1676413133203 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Duncan-two-e1676413133203-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Duncan two e1676413133203 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Taking the helm at eLM\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/taking-the-helm-at-elm\/\">Taking the helm at eLM<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 15, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Duncan Macleod brings a wealth of wisdom and life experience &#8211; good and tragically sad &#8211; to his new role as equipping Leadership for Mission&#8217;s executive officer. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/taking-the-helm-at-elm\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Finding our voice again\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/its-time-we-spoke-up\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Voice image custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Voice-image-custom_crop.png\" alt=\"Picture of Voice image custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Finding our voice again\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/its-time-we-spoke-up\/\">Finding our voice again<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 10, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Wesley Church Minister Alistair Macrae hopes to hear the Uniting Church&#8217;s voice ring out loud and clear on important issues. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/its-time-we-spoke-up\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Recognition drives justice\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/justice-comes-through-land-recognition\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Sharon hollis one e1675902871336 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Sharon-Hollis-one-e1675902871336-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Sharon hollis one e1675902871336 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Recognition drives justice\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/justice-comes-through-land-recognition\/\">Recognition drives justice<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 9, 2023<\/h5>\r\n<p>Assembly President Sharon Hollis says engagement with First Nations people in exploring the history of their land offers the possibility of justice, healing and restoration. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/justice-comes-through-land-recognition\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"On the side of the underdog\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/on-the-side-of-the-underdog\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Brendan one 2 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Brendan-one-2-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Brendan one 2 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"On the side of the underdog\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/on-the-side-of-the-underdog\/\">On the side of the underdog<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 22, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>Heathmont Minister Brendan Byrne believes the fight against inequality in society is a cause that must be taken up by us all. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/on-the-side-of-the-underdog\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Let\u2019s stick together\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lets-stick-together\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Boyce one e1671493171643 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Boyce-one-e1671493171643-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Boyce one e1671493171643 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Let\u2019s stick together\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lets-stick-together\/\">Let\u2019s stick together<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 21, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>Sandy Boyce brings a wealth of experience gained in the Uniting Church to her role as Victorian Council of Churches executive officer. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lets-stick-together\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Shore thing for tireless Beryl\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/shore-thing-for-tireless-beryl\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Beryl one e1670926263725 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Beryl-one-e1670926263725-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Beryl one e1670926263725 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Shore thing for tireless Beryl\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/shore-thing-for-tireless-beryl\/\">Shore thing for tireless Beryl<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 15, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>George Town Uniting Church member Beryl Osborne is also the stalwart of Bell Bay&#8217;s Seafarers Mission, on Tasmania&#8217;s north-east coast. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/shore-thing-for-tireless-beryl\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Voice for the marginalised\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/voice-for-the-marginalised\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Monica one e1670897584127 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Monica-one-e1670897584127-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Monica one e1670897584127 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Voice for the marginalised\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/voice-for-the-marginalised\/\">Voice for the marginalised<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 14, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>Pilgrim Theological College Rev Associate Professor Monica Melanchthon has a strong commitment to those people who sometimes don&#8217;t have a voice in society. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/voice-for-the-marginalised\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Advent invites serious reflection\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/advent-invites-serious-reflection\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Baubles custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Baubles-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Baubles custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Advent invites serious reflection\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/advent-invites-serious-reflection\/\">Advent invites serious reflection<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 12, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>As he awaits the birth of his own child, Moderator David Fotheringham reflects on Advent and how it calls us to take a look at the state of the world. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/advent-invites-serious-reflection\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Vines grow with God\u2019s care\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/vines-grow-with-gods-care\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Vines two e1664250174509 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Vines-two-e1664250174509-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Vines two e1664250174509 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Vines grow with God\u2019s care\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/vines-grow-with-gods-care\/\">Vines grow with God\u2019s care<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Sep 27, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>&#8220;While different local contexts are at different points, we are all part of the one vine \u2026 (and) God is the ultimate vine-grower,&#8221; writes Moderator David Fotheringham. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/vines-grow-with-gods-care\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Tempest and the former PM\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/tempest-and-the-former-pm\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Morrison two e1661309326305 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Morrison-two-e1661309326305-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Morrison two e1661309326305 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Tempest and the former PM\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/tempest-and-the-former-pm\/\">Tempest and the former PM<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 24, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>Uniting Church Minister John Bottomley says former Prime Minister Scott Morrison&#8217;s decision to appoint himself to several ministries during the pandemic needs to be seen through the prism of his Pentecostal beliefs. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/tempest-and-the-former-pm\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Abortion ruling hurts women\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/abortion-ruling-hurts-women\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Abortion artwork custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Abortion-artwork-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Abortion artwork custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Abortion ruling hurts women\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/abortion-ruling-hurts-women\/\">Abortion ruling hurts women<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 23, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>Rev Susan Malthouse has penned a thoughtful and thought-provoking article on abortion, in the wake of a recent US Supreme Court decision. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/abortion-ruling-hurts-women\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Treasures are called to arise\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/treasures-are-called-to-arise\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of David one 1 e1660520866230 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/David-one-1-e1660520866230-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of David one 1 e1660520866230 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Treasures are called to arise\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/treasures-are-called-to-arise\/\">Treasures are called to arise<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 15, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>In his first Crosslight column as Moderator, David Fotheringham writes about the theme of &#8220;Arise, Come with me&#8221;, which resonates with the idea of us being the beloved treasures that God finds, and calls to &#8220;arise&#8221;. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/treasures-are-called-to-arise\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Meet the Moderator\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meet-the-moderator\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of David five e1660187712672 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/David-five-e1660187712672-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of David five e1660187712672 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Meet the Moderator\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meet-the-moderator\/\">Meet the Moderator<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 12, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>Shortly after being installed as Moderator, David Fotheringham sat down to answer some questions for Crosslight magazine about his life so far and the journey ahead. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meet-the-moderator\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"When did we begin?\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/when-did-we-begin\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Union take three e1656295694407 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Union-take-three-e1656295694407-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Union take three e1656295694407 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"When did we begin?\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/when-did-we-begin\/\">When did we begin?<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 28, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>The Uniting Church celebrated its 45th birthday recently and retired Minister Rev Dr John Evans poses a question or two about its birth. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/when-did-we-begin\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Lighting the way\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lighting-the-way\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Cowes new custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Cowes-new-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Cowes new custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Lighting the way\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lighting-the-way\/\">Lighting the way<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 24, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>Recent renovations to the illuminated cross at St John&#8217;s UC in Cowes have given Minister Ian Turnnidge much to ponder about the meaning of faith. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/lighting-the-way\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Program feeds real need\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/program-feeds-real-need\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Tom e1655367950725 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Tom-e1655367950725-custom_crop.png\" alt=\"Picture of Tom e1655367950725 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Program feeds real need\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/program-feeds-real-need\/\">Program feeds real need<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 17, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>A Uniting Vic.Tas program in Ballarat is helping fill bellies and keep young people in the region like Tom connected to their community and loved ones. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/program-feeds-real-need\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Pentecost brings hope\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/pentecost-brings-hope\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Denise two custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Denise-two-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Denise two custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Pentecost brings hope\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/pentecost-brings-hope\/\">Pentecost brings hope<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 10, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>As we move from Lent and Easter into Pentecost, we look with hope towards a season of growth, writes Moderator Denise Liersch. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/pentecost-brings-hope\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Pride and prejudice\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/pride-and-prejudice\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Anne three scaled e1655974435951 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Anne-three-scaled-e1655974435951-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Anne three scaled e1655974435951 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Pride and prejudice\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/pride-and-prejudice\/\">Pride and prejudice<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 26, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>Indigenous theologian and activist Dr Anne Pattel-Gray has spent a lifetime advocating for a better world for our First Nations people. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/pride-and-prejudice\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"The plague and the Easter faith\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/the-plague-and-the-easter-faith\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of John two e1650318590979 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/John-two-e1650318590979-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of John two e1650318590979 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"The plague and the Easter faith\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/the-plague-and-the-easter-faith\/\">The plague and the Easter faith<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 19, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>The book &#8216;The Plague&#8217;, by Albert Camus, provides much to ponder in our pandemic-weary world, writes retired UC Minister John Evans. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/the-plague-and-the-easter-faith\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Listen deeply to Luke\u2019s message\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/listen-deeply-to-lukes-message\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Easter two e1649799218734 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Easter-two-e1649799218734-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Easter two e1649799218734 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Listen deeply to Luke\u2019s message\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/listen-deeply-to-lukes-message\/\">Listen deeply to Luke\u2019s message<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 13, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>With Easter nearly upon us, Moderator Denise Liersch writes about how the story of Jesus&#8217; death and the glory of his resurrection continues to resonate so strongly with us. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/listen-deeply-to-lukes-message\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Presence of mine pays off\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/presence-of-mine\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Minecraft one custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Minecraft-one-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Minecraft one custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Presence of mine pays off\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/presence-of-mine\/\">Presence of mine pays off<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Mar 1, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>One of the world&#8217;s favourite video games is helping Banyule Network of Uniting Churches Minister Sandy Brodine drive a different form of online connection and worship. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/presence-of-mine\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Man for all seasons\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/man-for-all-seasons\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Seasonal workers one e1645135914987 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Seasonal-workers-one-e1645135914987-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Seasonal workers one e1645135914987 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Man for all seasons\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/man-for-all-seasons\/\">Man for all seasons<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 18, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>Seasonal workers from Pacific Island countries who arrive in Tasmania to work are getting a helping hand thanks to the Synod&#8217;s Community Connections Worker Taua Ritiata. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/man-for-all-seasons\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Reflections on blessing\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/reflections-on-blessing\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Blessing pic custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Blessing-pic-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Blessing pic custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Reflections on blessing\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/reflections-on-blessing\/\">Reflections on blessing<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 9, 2022<\/h5>\r\n<p>&#8220;To be blessed, is to be filled with wonder at the love of God who is on the side of those who are poor, in trouble or who are grieving,&#8221; writes Moderator Denise Liersch. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/reflections-on-blessing\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Reflections on Christmas\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/reflections-on-christmas\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Chrissy three custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Chrissy-three-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Chrissy three custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Reflections on Christmas\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/reflections-on-christmas\/\">Reflections on Christmas<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 21, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>From North Essendon to the Solomon Islands, Uniting Church members take the opportunity to reflect on what Christmas means to them. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/reflections-on-christmas\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Aid to Z from John and Jenny\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/aid-to-z-from-john-and-jenny\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Prestons seven e1639614997463 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Prestons-seven-e1639614997463-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Prestons seven e1639614997463 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Aid to Z from John and Jenny\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/aid-to-z-from-john-and-jenny\/\">Aid to Z from John and Jenny<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 16, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>Melbourne couple John and Jenny Preston are celebrating 25 years of selfless service to Zambia&#8217;s poor. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/aid-to-z-from-john-and-jenny\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Minister all over the shops\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/minister-all-over-the-shops\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Shop two custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Shop-two-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Shop two custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Minister all over the shops\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/minister-all-over-the-shops\/\">Minister all over the shops<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 15, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>A Melbourne shopping centre has become a &#8216;mobile ministry&#8217; for Plenty Valley UC Minister Rev Dhirendra Narayan. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/minister-all-over-the-shops\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"No bucks? No worries\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/no-bucks-no-worries\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Bucks one e1638832723191 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Bucks-one-e1638832723191-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Bucks one e1638832723191 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"No bucks? No worries\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/no-bucks-no-worries\/\">No bucks? No worries<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 10, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>How do you feed 300 people with just $300? Nobucks community meals service in Hobart shows how it can be done through the goodness of hearts like yours. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/no-bucks-no-worries\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Vote of thanks for Jessie\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/vote-of-thanks-for-jessie\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Grave two custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Grave-two-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Grave two custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Vote of thanks for Jessie\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/vote-of-thanks-for-jessie\/\">Vote of thanks for Jessie<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 8, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>The vital role a Tasmanian pioneer played in promoting the right of women to vote has been recognised, thanks to an extensive restoration project. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/vote-of-thanks-for-jessie\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Rod\u2019s role of honour\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/rods-role-of-honour\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Boat one e1638830288867 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Boat-one-e1638830288867-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Boat one e1638830288867 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Rod\u2019s role of honour\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/rods-role-of-honour\/\">Rod\u2019s role of honour<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 7, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>Retired Minister Rod Horsfield refuses to let the memory fade of those who drowned in the SIEV-X maritime disaster 20 years ago. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/rods-role-of-honour\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Novel approach to religion\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/novel-approach-to-religion\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Murder book photo e1635981269250 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Murder-book-photo-e1635981269250-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Murder book photo e1635981269250 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Novel approach to religion\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/novel-approach-to-religion\/\">Novel approach to religion<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Nov 4, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>Retired Uniting Church Minister Bob Faser has written a ripping murder-mystery novel which also poses a few interesting questions around the issue of faith. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/novel-approach-to-religion\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Mery promises to serve\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/mery-promises-to-serve\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Timor new pic custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Timor-new-pic-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Timor new pic custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Mery promises to serve\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/mery-promises-to-serve\/\">Mery promises to serve<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Nov 3, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>Evangelical Church of Timor&#8217;s first female Moderator, Rev Mery Kolimon, is committed to leading a church helping transform every aspect of the society it serves. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/mery-promises-to-serve\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Sharon takes up the challenge\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/sharon-takes-up-the-challenge\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Sharon hollis e1629938702547 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Sharon-Hollis-e1629938702547-custom_crop.png\" alt=\"Picture of Sharon hollis e1629938702547 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Sharon takes up the challenge\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/sharon-takes-up-the-challenge\/\">Sharon takes up the challenge<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 26, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>As she takes her first steps in the role, new President Sharon Hollis says UCA must continue to engage with First Peoples and embrace its multicultural communities. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/sharon-takes-up-the-challenge\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Church is home for Laurenne and family\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/all-in-the-family-for-laurenne\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Laurenne one e1629095478355 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Laurenne-one-e1629095478355-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Laurenne one e1629095478355 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Church is home for Laurenne and family\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/all-in-the-family-for-laurenne\/\">Church is home for Laurenne and family<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 18, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>Ballarat&#8217;s Laurenne Robertson and her family share a special relationship with the city&#8217;s Neil Street Uniting Church. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/all-in-the-family-for-laurenne\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Private: Meet the Moderator-elect candidates\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meet-the-moderator-elect-candidates\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Three candidates e1612486055842 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Three-candidates-e1612486055842-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Three candidates e1612486055842 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Private: Meet the Moderator-elect candidates\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meet-the-moderator-elect-candidates\/\">Private: Meet the Moderator-elect candidates<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 5, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>This month&#8217;s Synod 2021 will see a Moderator-elect chosen to replace Denise Liersch in 2022. Meet candidates David Fotheringham, Rachel Kronberger and Cameron McAdam. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meet-the-moderator-elect-candidates\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"It\u2019s time First Peoples\u2019 voices were heard\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/its-time-their-voices-were-heard\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Anotherpetercam e1611524022165 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Anotherpetercam-e1611524022165-custom_crop.png\" alt=\"Picture of Anotherpetercam e1611524022165 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"It\u2019s time First Peoples\u2019 voices were heard\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/its-time-their-voices-were-heard\/\">It\u2019s time First Peoples\u2019 voices were heard<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jan 25, 2021<\/h5>\r\n<p>As Australians celebrate their national day, two outstanding men are leading the fight to ensure Aboriginal voices are heard loud and clear. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/its-time-their-voices-were-heard\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Getting to know the Bethel Centre \u2013 Julie McDonald Q&amp;A\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/getting-to-know-the-bethel-centre-julie-mcdonald-qa\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of To edit 6 e1603750565252 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/to-edit-6-e1603750565252-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of To edit 6 e1603750565252 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Getting to know the Bethel Centre \u2013 Julie McDonald Q&amp;A\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/getting-to-know-the-bethel-centre-julie-mcdonald-qa\/\">Getting to know the Bethel Centre \u2013 Julie McDonald Q&amp;A<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Oct 27, 2020<\/h5>\r\n<p>Julie McDonald says seeking help doesn&#8217;t imply there is a flaw in a person&#8217;s faith. &#8220;Nobody&#8217;s relationship to their faith is perfect all the time. We all fall and we all have challenges.&#8221; <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/getting-to-know-the-bethel-centre-julie-mcdonald-qa\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Double Take: Robyn Whitaker and Fran Barber\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-robyn-whitaker-and-fran-barber\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Fran and robyn e1597202686419 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Fran-and-Robyn-e1597202686419-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Fran and robyn e1597202686419 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Double Take: Robyn Whitaker and Fran Barber\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-robyn-whitaker-and-fran-barber\/\">Double Take: Robyn Whitaker and Fran Barber<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 12, 2020<\/h5>\r\n<p>Rev Dr Robyn Whitaker and Rev Fran Barber have been friends for 25 years. In that time they have shared a lot of things &#8211; including a wedding dress. They now share a podcast to help resource people in ministry. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-robyn-whitaker-and-fran-barber\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Heather Ackland retires after 36 years\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/heather-ackland-retires-after-36-years\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Img 7398 heather custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/IMG_7398-heather-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Img 7398 heather custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Heather Ackland retires after 36 years\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/heather-ackland-retires-after-36-years\/\">Heather Ackland retires after 36 years<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 10, 2020<\/h5>\r\n<p>Heather Ackland started her career juggling figures and ended it trying to figure out ways to help congregations with their missional work. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/heather-ackland-retires-after-36-years\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Double Take: Steven Bernaudo and Rev\u00a0Ron Rosinsky\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-steven-bernaudo-and-rev-ron-rosinsky\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Chaplains e1586914463810 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Chaplains-e1586914463810-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Chaplains e1586914463810 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Double Take: Steven Bernaudo and Rev\u00a0Ron Rosinsky\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-steven-bernaudo-and-rev-ron-rosinsky\/\">Double Take: Steven Bernaudo and Rev\u00a0Ron Rosinsky<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 15, 2020<\/h5>\r\n<p>How do you reconcile God and guns? Serving Australian Defence Force reservists Steven Bernaudo, 33, and Rev\u00a0Ron Rosinsky, 52, talk about being Christians in the military. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-steven-bernaudo-and-rev-ron-rosinsky\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Double Take: Ian Brain and William Clark\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-ian-brain-and-william-clark\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Ian brain william clark cmyk custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Ian-Brain-William-Clark-CMYK-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Ian brain william clark cmyk custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Double Take: Ian Brain and William Clark\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-ian-brain-and-william-clark\/\">Double Take: Ian Brain and William Clark<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 12, 2020<\/h5>\r\n<p>Uniting Housing provides affordable accommodation to vulnerable people. We speak with outgoing CEO Ian Brain and grateful tenant, William Clark. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-ian-brain-and-william-clark\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Double Take: Frank and Wendy Johnston\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-frank-and-wendy-johnston\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Frank wendy 2cmyk e1575498112801 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/FRANK_WENDY-2CMYK-e1575498112801-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Frank wendy 2cmyk e1575498112801 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Double Take: Frank and Wendy Johnston\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-frank-and-wendy-johnston\/\">Double Take: Frank and Wendy Johnston<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 5, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Manningham Uniting Church members and serial volunteers Frank and Wendy Johnston talk about giving back and living life to the full. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-frank-and-wendy-johnston\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Double Take: Anne Warren and Alison Overeem\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-anne-warren-and-alison-overeem\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Bh leprena 1913 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/BH-Leprena-1913-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Bh leprena 1913 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Double Take: Anne Warren and Alison Overeem\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-anne-warren-and-alison-overeem\/\">Double Take: Anne Warren and Alison Overeem<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Oct 21, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Kingston Uniting Church member Anne Warren and Leprena Centre Manager Alison Overeem talk about their friendship and walking together as First and Second Peoples. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-anne-warren-and-alison-overeem\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Samuel Manhom: How I survived war, famine and crocodiles\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/samuel-manhom-how-i-survived-war-famine-and-crocodiles\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Samuel manhom 5 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/SAMUEL-MANHOM-5-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Samuel manhom 5 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Samuel Manhom: How I survived war, famine and crocodiles\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/samuel-manhom-how-i-survived-war-famine-and-crocodiles\/\">Samuel Manhom: How I survived war, famine and crocodiles<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Oct 9, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Samuel Manhom spent his first 24 years surrounded by civil war. But the former Lost Boy has finally found a place to call home. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/samuel-manhom-how-i-survived-war-famine-and-crocodiles\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Joan Wright Howie\u2019s SWell art of spiritual expression\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/joan-wright-howies-swell-art-of-spiritual-expression\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Joan wright howie 1 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Joan-Wright-Howie-1-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Joan wright howie 1 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Joan Wright Howie\u2019s SWell art of spiritual expression\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/joan-wright-howies-swell-art-of-spiritual-expression\/\">Joan Wright Howie\u2019s SWell art of spiritual expression<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Oct 8, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>If you&#8217;re religious you&#8217;re spiritual, but the reverse doesn&#8217;t necessarily apply. Joan Wright Howie is interested in the space that overlaps. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/joan-wright-howies-swell-art-of-spiritual-expression\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Laura Mazza: I won\u2019t let depression defeat me\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/laura-tells-of-her-battle-with-depression\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Laura kids 2 e1570404431513 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Laura-kids-2-e1570404431513-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Laura kids 2 e1570404431513 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Laura Mazza: I won\u2019t let depression defeat me\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/laura-tells-of-her-battle-with-depression\/\">Laura Mazza: I won\u2019t let depression defeat me<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Oct 7, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Depression can strike anyone, any time, anywhere &#8211; something Laura Mazza knows only too well. But this mother of three is determined to fight back. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/laura-tells-of-her-battle-with-depression\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Abuse survivor Holly Taylor\u2019s long mental health struggle\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/abuse-survivor-holly-taylors-long-mental-health-struggle\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Holly taylor 2 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Holly-Taylor-2-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Holly taylor 2 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Abuse survivor Holly Taylor\u2019s long mental health struggle\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/abuse-survivor-holly-taylors-long-mental-health-struggle\/\">Abuse survivor Holly Taylor\u2019s long mental health struggle<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Sep 12, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Holly Taylor is a high-flying bio-medicine student with a brilliantly bright future but only a few years ago she was such a danger to herself that she couldn&#8217;t shower without being watched. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/abuse-survivor-holly-taylors-long-mental-health-struggle\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Former TV reporter Jane Phelan takes it one step at a time\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/former-tv-reporter-jane-phelan-takes-it-one-step-at-a-time\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Jane for online 1 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Jane-for-online-1-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Jane for online 1 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Former TV reporter Jane Phelan takes it one step at a time\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/former-tv-reporter-jane-phelan-takes-it-one-step-at-a-time\/\">Former TV reporter Jane Phelan takes it one step at a time<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 15, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>When Jane Phelan woke from a stroke she had lost the ability to walk or talk. But then she found God &#8211; again &#8211; and hasn&#8217;t looked back. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/former-tv-reporter-jane-phelan-takes-it-one-step-at-a-time\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"How Sally Goldner found the freedom to be herself\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/how-sally-goldner-found-the-freedom-to-be-herself\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Sally goldner 1 copy scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Sally-Goldner-1-copy-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Sally goldner 1 copy scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"How Sally Goldner found the freedom to be herself\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/how-sally-goldner-found-the-freedom-to-be-herself\/\">How Sally Goldner found the freedom to be herself<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 12, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Imagine being born into the wrong body. Imagine spending 30 years not knowing who you really are. Only then can you start to understand Sally Goldner&#8217;s strength. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/how-sally-goldner-found-the-freedom-to-be-herself\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Pilgrim student Audrey Larsen back in class at age 97\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/pilgrim-student-audrey-larsen-back-in-class-at-age-97\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Audrey 1 e1565840818475 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/AUDREY-1-e1565840818475-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Audrey 1 e1565840818475 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Pilgrim student Audrey Larsen back in class at age 97\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/pilgrim-student-audrey-larsen-back-in-class-at-age-97\/\">Pilgrim student Audrey Larsen back in class at age 97<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 10, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Pilgrim student Audrey Larsen is proof that age is just a number. At 97 she&#8217;s an audit student living out her mantra &#8220;while you&#8217;re alive, you&#8217;ve got to live&#8221;. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/pilgrim-student-audrey-larsen-back-in-class-at-age-97\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Rod Dungan joins pitched battle for the \u2018Grey Ashes\u2019\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/rod-dungan-joins-pitched-battle-for-the-grey-ashes\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Batsman cmyk scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/batsman-cmyk-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Batsman cmyk scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Rod Dungan joins pitched battle for the \u2018Grey Ashes\u2019\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/rod-dungan-joins-pitched-battle-for-the-grey-ashes\/\">Rod Dungan joins pitched battle for the \u2018Grey Ashes\u2019<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 2, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>As Australia takes on England for the Ashes another, slightly older, group is also padding up with grey expectations. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/rod-dungan-joins-pitched-battle-for-the-grey-ashes\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Double Take: Salesi and Siotame Faupula\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/salesi-siotame-faupula-and-the-golden-chain\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Img 6571 2 e1565746151966 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/IMG_6571-2-e1565746151966-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Img 6571 2 e1565746151966 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Double Take: Salesi and Siotame Faupula\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/salesi-siotame-faupula-and-the-golden-chain\/\">Double Take: Salesi and Siotame Faupula<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 2, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Like father, like son? For Doubletake we asked Canterbury Balwyn Road Uniting Church minister Rev Salesi Faupula and his son Siotame to talk about family, faith and finding yourself. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/salesi-siotame-faupula-and-the-golden-chain\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Coralie Ling enjoys her purple patch stage of life\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/coralie-ling-enjoys-her-purple-patch-stage-of-life\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Coralie 1 cmyk e1565842183913 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/CORALIE-1-cmyk-e1565842183913-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Coralie 1 cmyk e1565842183913 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Coralie Ling enjoys her purple patch stage of life\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/coralie-ling-enjoys-her-purple-patch-stage-of-life\/\">Coralie Ling enjoys her purple patch stage of life<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 1, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Coralie Ling is the first woman to have been ordained a Methodist minister in Victoria. She recently made her theatre debut, starring in the Gasworks Theatre stage show Beachside Stories. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/coralie-ling-enjoys-her-purple-patch-stage-of-life\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Julie Perrin\u2019s kind of revelations in her new book Tender\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/julie-perrins-kind-of-revelations-in-her-new-book-tender\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Img 6297 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/IMG_6297-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Img 6297 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Julie Perrin\u2019s kind of revelations in her new book Tender\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/julie-perrins-kind-of-revelations-in-her-new-book-tender\/\">Julie Perrin\u2019s kind of revelations in her new book Tender<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 15, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Everyone has a story to tell. Or, in Julie Perrin&#8217;s case, lots of stories. And some of them are very close to home. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/julie-perrins-kind-of-revelations-in-her-new-book-tender\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Meredith Lake\u2019s award-winning soul focus on history\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meredith-lakes-award-winning-soul-focus-on-history\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Img 9631 meredith lake photo by fancyboy comau supplied custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/IMG_9631-Meredith-Lake-photo-by-fancyboy.comau-supplied-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Img 9631 meredith lake photo by fancyboy comau supplied custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Meredith Lake\u2019s award-winning soul focus on history\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meredith-lakes-award-winning-soul-focus-on-history\/\">Meredith Lake\u2019s award-winning soul focus on history<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 15, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Historian and radio presenter Dr Meredith Lake explains why, to move ahead, it often doesn&#8217;t hurt to have a look behind. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meredith-lakes-award-winning-soul-focus-on-history\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Uniting Winter Appeal helps bring hope from the ashes\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/uniting-winter-appeal-helps-bring-hope-from-the-ashes\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Felicity 2 picture by georgia verrells e1565913143546 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Felicity-2.-Picture-by-Georgia-Verrells-e1565913143546-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Felicity 2 picture by georgia verrells e1565913143546 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Uniting Winter Appeal helps bring hope from the ashes\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/uniting-winter-appeal-helps-bring-hope-from-the-ashes\/\">Uniting Winter Appeal helps bring hope from the ashes<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Jun 3, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>A fire robbed Felicity of her home, her health and her will to live. Five years on, she&#8217;s back on her feet and &#8216;in a really good place&#8217; &#8211; literally and figuratively. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/uniting-winter-appeal-helps-bring-hope-from-the-ashes\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Idil Ali talks poetic justice at Sacrededge\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/idil-ali-talks-poetic-justice-at-sacrededge\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Idil ali scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Idil-Ali-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Idil ali scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Idil Ali talks poetic justice at Sacrededge\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/idil-ali-talks-poetic-justice-at-sacrededge\/\">Idil Ali talks poetic justice at Sacrededge<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>May 15, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Idil Ali knows the struggles of the silent minority. She sees it and lives it every day. It&#8217;s why she speaks for those who struggle to be heard. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/idil-ali-talks-poetic-justice-at-sacrededge\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Double Take: Joy Han and Jiny Lee\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-joy-han-and-jiny-lee\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Jiny joy 2 scaled custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/JINY-JOY-2-scaled-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Jiny joy 2 scaled custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Double Take: Joy Han and Jiny Lee\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-joy-han-and-jiny-lee\/\">Double Take: Joy Han and Jiny Lee<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Apr 1, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Joy Han and Jiny Lee talk about NYALC and worshipping at Cornerstone Ministry, a Korean Church in Melbourne. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-joy-han-and-jiny-lee\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Tim Matton Johnson \u2013 first and foremost\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/tim-matton-johnson-first-and-foremost\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Rev tim matton johnson e1565913830832 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Rev-Tim-Matton-Johnson-e1565913830832-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Rev tim matton johnson e1565913830832 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Tim Matton Johnson \u2013 first and foremost\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/tim-matton-johnson-first-and-foremost\/\">Tim Matton Johnson \u2013 first and foremost<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 16, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Rev Tim Matton Johnson has retired after more than 30 years of ordained ministry during which he played a prominent leadership role in helping the Uniting Church live out a Covenant relationship between First and Second Peoples. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/tim-matton-johnson-first-and-foremost\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Double Take: Will and Amanda Nicholas\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-will-and-amanda-nicholas\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Will amanda nicholas custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/Will-Amanda-Nicholas-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Will amanda nicholas custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Double Take: Will and Amanda Nicholas\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-will-and-amanda-nicholas\/\">Double Take: Will and Amanda Nicholas<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Feb 1, 2019<\/h5>\r\n<p>Amanda and Will Nicholas are Uniting Church ministers. And they&#8217;ve also been married for 22 years &#8211; which is quite remarkable when you take into account Will&#8217;s fruit-testing technique. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/double-take-will-and-amanda-nicholas\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Andrew McDonough: drawing from scripture\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/andrew-mcdonough-drawing-from-scripture\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of 10 jesus refugee custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/10_Jesus_refugee-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of 10 jesus refugee custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Andrew McDonough: drawing from scripture\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/andrew-mcdonough-drawing-from-scripture\/\">Andrew McDonough: drawing from scripture<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 2, 2018<\/h5>\r\n<p>Children&#8217;s author Andrew McDonough reflects on his career, a journey he embarked on nearly 30 years ago. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/andrew-mcdonough-drawing-from-scripture\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"A matter of principal\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-matter-of-principal\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of 12 helen 1 517x500 1 e1565919223692 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/12_Helen-1-517x500-1-e1565919223692-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of 12 helen 1 517x500 1 e1565919223692 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"A matter of principal\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-matter-of-principal\/\">A matter of principal<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Dec 1, 2018<\/h5>\r\n<p>Wesley College Principal Dr Helen Drennen reflects on her teaching career, as her time at the helm comes to an end. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/a-matter-of-principal\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Ray's 60 years of spreading the gospel\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/rays-60-years-of-spreading-the-gospel\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Ray custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/ray-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Ray custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Ray's 60 years of spreading the gospel\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/rays-60-years-of-spreading-the-gospel\/\">Ray&#8217;s 60 years of spreading the gospel<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Oct 30, 2018<\/h5>\r\n<p>Ray Averill OAM announces he is &#8220;hanging up his preaching boots&#8221; after more than 60 years as lay preacher. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/rays-60-years-of-spreading-the-gospel\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Habit forming\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/habit-forming\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Amna e1565917854460 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/amna-e1565917854460-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Amna e1565917854460 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Habit forming\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/habit-forming\/\">Habit forming<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Oct 16, 2018<\/h5>\r\n<p>Amna Iqbal shared how a Catholic nun helped form her Islamic faith at Ormond Uniting Church as part of Multi-faith October. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/habit-forming\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Changing course into a storm\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/changing-course-into-a-storm\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of David gushee e1565919531143 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/david-gushee-e1565919531143-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of David gushee e1565919531143 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Changing course into a storm\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/changing-course-into-a-storm\/\">Changing course into a storm<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Sep 23, 2018<\/h5>\r\n<p>When Rev Dr David Gushee called for full inclusion of LGBTI people in his book Changing Our Mind, the response from the mainstream evangelical community was brutally swift. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/changing-course-into-a-storm\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Going the extra mile\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/going-the-extra-mile\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Eloise and julius e1565920194166 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/eloise-and-julius-e1565920194166-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Eloise and julius e1565920194166 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Going the extra mile\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/going-the-extra-mile\/\">Going the extra mile<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Sep 2, 2018<\/h5>\r\n<p>Olympian Eloise Wellings talks about discovering her faith and purpose. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/going-the-extra-mile\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Q&amp;A with Tai Alphred\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/qa-with-tai-alphred\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Tai alphred e1565920620523 custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/tai-alphred-e1565920620523-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Tai alphred e1565920620523 custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Q&amp;A with Tai Alphred\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/qa-with-tai-alphred\/\">Q&amp;A with Tai Alphred<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 19, 2018<\/h5>\r\n<p>We asked Murrumbeena Uniting Church&#8217;s family ministry coordinator Tai Alphred to tell us a bit about herself and ministry. <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/qa-with-tai-alphred\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a> <a title=\"Meredith an inspirational type\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meredith-an-inspirational-type\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\"> <img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Picture of Meredith allen custom crop\" src=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/bb-plugin\/cache\/meredith-allen-custom_crop.jpg\" alt=\"Picture of Meredith allen custom crop in the page People &#038; Opinion\" \/> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3><a tabindex=\"0\" title=\"Meredith an inspirational type\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meredith-an-inspirational-type\/\">Meredith an inspirational type<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<h5>Aug 15, 2018<\/h5>\r\n<p>&#8220;The message to all the young people who use alternative and augmentative communication is that if you have the opportunity to be educated, take it,&#8221; says Meredith Allan <a role=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/victas.uca.org.au\/meredith-an-inspirational-type\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Read more\"> Read more <\/a><\/p>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>People &amp; Opinion Different paths on journey May 28, 2024 The question of how do we respond to others in a society that is increasingly secular is examined by former Uniting Church Minister Dr Paul Tonson. Read more All People Focus is on new faces Apr 5, 2024 The equipping Leadership for Mission unit recently&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":5917,"menu_order":2,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-7117","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/church.debug.victas.uca.org.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7117","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/church.debug.victas.uca.org.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/church.debug.victas.uca.org.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/church.debug.victas.uca.org.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/church.debug.victas.uca.org.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=7117"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/church.debug.victas.uca.org.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7117\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/church.debug.victas.uca.org.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5917"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/church.debug.victas.uca.org.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=7117"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}