48th Parliament Opens with Prayer and Reflection at Wesley Uniting Church, Canberra

As the 48th Federal Parliament of Australia commenced its formal proceedings, leaders from across the spectrum gathered for a traditional ecumenical worship service at Wesley Uniting Church, Canberra for a significant moment of national reflection. Held at 7:30am, the service was well attended, drawing a congregation of more than 300 people.

Hosted by the Parliamentary Christian Fellowship and held on Tuesday 22 July, the service brought together Members and Senators from all sides of politics, alongside members of the diplomatic corps, senior public servants, leaders of the Australian Defence Force, and ecumenical representatives from the Presbyterian, Anglican, Greek Orthodox, and Baptist communities. United in prayer for those who shape the nation, the service offered a moment to pause and mark the new parliamentary chapter with prayer and shared values.

Following the Words of Greeting from the Co-Chairs of the Parliamentary Christian Fellowship, the service was opened by Rev Geoff Dornan, Minister of Wesley Uniting Church, who led the Call to Worship and prayers of invocation and confession. The congregation also heard a reflection from The Very Reverend Richard Thompson VG CSM, Vicar General of the Catholic Archdiocese of Canberra & Goulburn, offering spiritual insight.

The liturgy was the product of months of preparation by the ACT Ecumenical Council, which works closely with Parliament House officials to shape a service reflective of Australia’s diverse Christian traditions. “This service is a long-standing tradition and a public expression of the church’s ministry,” said Rev Dornan.

Scripture was central to the gathering, with key national figures delivering their preferred readings:

• Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn, Governor-General of Australia, read from Isaiah 58:6–11, a passage calling for justice and compassionate action.

• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shared a reading from his chosen passage, 1 John 4:7–12, highlighting the transformative power of love.

• The Honourable Ms Sussan Ley MP, Leader of the Opposition, read from the Gospel of John 13:31–35, where Jesus calls his followers to love one another as he has loved them.

In a brief reflection, Prime Minister Albanese noted the significance of the occasion:

“This morning’s ecumenical service was a moment to pause and reflect. It's a wonderful way to begin the parliamentary year,” he said.

Wesley Uniting Church has long served as a place of civic and spiritual gathering in Canberra.

Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Rev Geoff Dornan said:

“I've had a lot of experience in public affairs and public theology. The service does three things:
First, it places the church within the life of the nation, which is increasingly important in a secular age where that space is harder to occupy.
Second, it underscores the Uniting Church's commitment to public theology and social justice, which are core values for us.
Third, it gives the churches an opportunity to maintain personal relationships with politicians.”

As the 48th Parliament sets its agenda, the gathering at Wesley Uniting Church offered a moment of unity and shared hope.

It stands as a proud reminder to the Uniting Church community that our spaces, our voices, and our witness continue to be woven into the public life of the nation.

Cover Image Credit: Micheal West Media