Synod Meeting 2025 Commences in Western Sydney

The Synod 2025 meeting has officially commenced at the Western Sydney Conference Centre, held on the traditional lands of the Mulgoa clan of the Dharug Nation. Approximately 340 members from congregations and Presbyteries across New South Wales and the ACT have gathered for what is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in the Synod’s history. 

The registration period was lively, with the main conference room buzzing as members greeted one another, explored the venue, and settled at their designated tables.

This year, each round table has been intentionally arranged to include a broad demographic bringing together young adults and experienced senior members of the Church. This mix is designed to ensure a diversity of voices and perspectives are present throughout the discussions during the meeting. 

The meeting began with a prayer gathering session followed by a Welcome to Country ceremony, which this year featured a cultural dance performance by Jannawi Dance Clan.

Opening worship was then led by the Uniting Creative team, coordinated by Natasha Holmes. The service marked the official launch of the new WITNESS album which is an artistic project developed and brought to life over the past six months through a series of workshops, creative collaborations, and recording sessions.  

Congregations are now able to download the full album to be used at their Sunday service, worships, events, etc via the link here.

We also saw our past Moderator Rev Simon Hansford share a scriptire reading on John 6:1-14 (NRSV) - Feeding of the 5000.

Ongoing Moderator Rev Faaimata Havea Hiliau shared a sermon on the theme of the Synod Meeting 'Transforming Communities'.

The 2025 Synod meeting is expected to be a defining event for the Church, with several major decisions on the agenda. A landmark proposal to dissolve the existing twelve Presbyteries and form three new ones—Northern, Central, and Southern will be decided at this gathering. The outcome of this vote is scheduled to be announced on the final day of the meeting, Sunday 13 July, at 10:45am.  

This Synod also marks a significant leadership transition, as Rev. Jane Fry concludes her term as General Secretary. Members will cast their votes for her successor on Friday, with the ballot announcement set for 3:30pm same day. 

In addition, members will vote to elect the next Moderator-Elect, who will be installed at the 2027 Synod. The results of this vote are expected to be announced by Saturday, 12th July at 2pm.

All sessions of the Synod meeting 2025 will be live-streamed (except the closed sessions) from today till the end of meeting on 13th July, giving our wider Uniting Church community the opportunity to witness these key discussions and decisions as they unfold.  

Find more information here.