Dear Friends,

I was proud to be with Avril this morning as she received a Local Hero award from the Holdfast Bay Council. Avril was given the award for her “inclusive and permission giving style of leadership” as the Coordinator of our Emergency Relief programme throughout the pandemic. Avril has nurtured space among St. Andrew’s that is hospitable and happy, where mutually supportive community thrives.

Amidst the celebrations of this morning, it was heartening to hear Mayor Amanda Wilson and Senator Penny Wong recognise the complex feelings this day brings, calling us to have a “mature and honest conversation” (Wong) about the future of Australia. Paraphrasing Amanda’s words, “As long as some of us are hurting, we are all hurting.” 

So, congratulations Avril and may this day truly be a time to reflect, respect, and celebrate.

Peace,

Christine

Congratulations to Avril who has been nominated to receive an Australia Day award for her efforts in the Holdfast Bay area in her role as coordinator of UnitingCare Glenelg Emergency Relief.

In Avril’s words, she is “pleased that the St. Andrew’s community has been recognised for our loving service in the community”.

The ceremony will take place as part of the Bay’s Australia Day observance including a ceremony to welcome new citizens. We wish Avril the best of luck on the day.

Click here for details of Holdfast Bay’s Australia Day – Citizenship and Awards Ceremony.

Peace,

Christine

This Sunday morning (24 January at 10:00 am), we will observe a Day of Mourning.

The 15^th Assembly endorsed a Day of Mourning be observed each year on the Sunday before Australia Day in response to a request from the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC).

Interim UAICC Chair Pastor Mark Kickett said the Day of Mourning is the beginning of a journey with Uniting Church and UAICC and First Peoples across the country. It gives us the opportunity to express lament for the injustice of our past and present as well as look to the future with hope and determination.

Sunday is predicted to be hot. The air conditioning and fans will be on and feel free to dress comfortably! 

I look forward to sharing this important day with you.

In peace,

Christine