Ministers Gathered Ahead of Synod 2025 for a Day of Listening and Learning
Pastors and Ministers from across the Synod came together on Thursday 10 July at Castlereagh Conference Centre in Penrith for a day of shared learning, reflection, and honest conversation ahead of the 2025 Synod meeting.
Pastors and Ministers from across the Synod came together on Thursday 10 July at Castlereagh Conference Centre in Penrith for a day of shared learning, reflection, and honest conversation ahead of the 2025 Synod meeting.
The day ran from 9:30am to 4:30pm, and while the agenda was full, the tone was relaxed. There was space to listen, speak openly, and hear from colleagues working in different parts of the Church.
Rev. Bronwyn Murphy opened the day with a welcome, an Acknowledgement of Country, and prayer. From there, Rev. Ben Gilmour led two short but thoughtful sessions—first on how to listen deeply and then on how to ask questions that seek real understanding. A session on managing bias followed after a quick stretch break.
After morning tea, Rev. Dr Seforosa Carroll spoke about intercultural ministry and what it means to be the Church in a multicultural setting. Her session encouraged reflection on the daily realities of ministry in diverse communities and how cultural awareness can shape faithful leadership.
After lunch, Rev. Dr Peter Walker explored how both lay and ordained ministry are evolving in the 21st century. His session sparked conversation about how roles are shifting and what’s needed to support both types of leaders today.
The final session of the day came back to the heart of pastoral life: how ministers can feel valued and sustain wellbeing in a changing Church. Rev. Bronwyn Murphy offered practical insight here, grounded in experience and pastoral care.
The day closed with an open floor for questions and final prayer.
“The Synod of NSW and ACT deeply values our Ministers and seeks to affirm and encourage the vital work they do,” said Rev. Bronwyn Murphy of the gathering. “We hope to hold similar gatherings at least once a year. Standing before nearly 90 Ministers in the room, I felt profoundly privileged to serve alongside them.”
While the agenda covered big topics, the mood remained grounded with Ministers and Pastors doing what they often do best: showing up, listening well, and learning together.
Everyone left with something to reflect on, whether a fresh question, a new connection, or a quiet sense of encouragement.
Everyone left with something to reflect on, whether a fresh question, a new connection, or a quiet sense of encouragement.
