Special appeal: help Steph study Transitional Ministry
Church Council invites those who are able to chip in towards Steph Gesling’s study of Transitional Ministry. It’s the second part of a course she commenced before Sam was born, and connects with her Period of Discernment (i.e. discerning whether she feels called to ordained ministry). It will help her work with congregations that are going through significant periods of transition…which is a lot of UCA congregations these days!

We understand Presbytery is likely to cover the tuition fees, but we want to raise $560 to cover her travel and part of her accommodation costs in Sydney, where the course is offered.

Any surplus money donated will be put towards a new fund to support other such applications. See our Give Now web page for details.  To donate, simply make an electronic transfer into our main ANZ account (BSB: 013 236, account 868 7863). Include “Study Fund” in your description/reference.


Do you have a story of faith to share
… in which you have turned to God in some way?
It doesn’t have to be a big moment, or a fully formed story, just something where you experienced a turning point.
As part of our focus for Lent this year, we are wanting to share stories with one another about these moments during worship.
Contact Cath to find out more.

Thank you
Thank you to everyone who supported my recent small fundraisers for Olive Way.  Potted plants and a high tea received generous donations.  Ruth mentioned that these gifts covered the purchase of roast chicken and vegetables shared at the Tuesday lunch this week.  Your generosity is appreciated.  Helen Rowe

Looking for a housemate
Penny has a room for rent in Fitzroy, the house is otherwise fully furnished.  See further details here and send Penny a message if you think you’d be a good fit.

Have you noticed junk food ads targeting your children or grandchildren?
The Uniting Church’s Justice and International Mission Cluster is making a submission to a government enquiry into protecting children (up to 18 years old) from junk food advertising. They are looking for examples to provide evidence for the submission.
If you have an example or story to tell please e-mail jim@victas.uca.org.au  or phone Mark Zirnsak on 0409 166 915.

Lenten studies 2024
Looking at the work of Rowan Williams, Meeting God in Mark.  Starting 20th February and throughout Lent. Tuesdays,  7.30 – 9.00.  Peter and Kath Williams place, 44 Collier Crescent, Brunswick.

Church Council Retreat
Everyone is invited to join the Church Council for a theological discussion and reflection on the wider trends and issues facing the church and community and how this shapes our mission – Saturday 17th February.

YUCY Werewolves Night
YUCY is back for 2024 with Werewolves on Saturday 17th February.

Donuts and Discussion
… will start again for those in secondary school and upper primary.
Third Sunday of the month during worship at Juanita Peaches.  Next discussion will be Sunday 18th February.

Sydney Road Street Party
The Food Co-op is hosting our participation in this fabulous annual event on Sunday 3rd March.  Find out how you can get involved.

Planning for Holy Week
Join the worship committee for a planning conversation as we prepare for Holy Week – Wednesday 7th March.

Olive Pages
The Olive Pages, our collection of names, phone numbers, emails and addresses will be updated in the coming weeks, draft pages will be available for you to check and add to after worship on 18th & 25th February.  The first edition for 12024 will be published privately early March.   If you are new to the congregation or have changed any of your details please send Saide an email.  Please only provide details that you are comfortable to share.

March Olive Branch
Next month’s edition will be published on Sunday 3rd March.  Send an email to Saide with your reports, stories, photos, reflections by Monday 26th February.

Climate Action News

Featuring – 40 days for prayer and faithful action, Raising our Tribal Voice for Justice, Our hearts ache and cry out for peace, World Day of Prayer (1/3), and lots more.

FeaturingJim’s community work recognised, Lent resources, Old Testament course, President to offer Voice reflection, positions available and lots more.

Read about the Faithful Futures Project, Mental Health Matters, UC Historical Society Life Members, Lay preaching studies and more.