News and Notes 23 February 2026

A Lenten Invitation

Uniting Church in Australia President Rev Charissa Suli has shared a Lenten invitation and prayer for the beginning of Lent.

"We begin this season in a world that feels tense and fragile. There is violence across nations. There is division in public life. We have seen peaceful voices met with tension. We have witnessed how quickly trust can fracture, and how deeply communities can feel wounded. Many are carrying grief, anger and uncertainty – here in Australia and beyond.

Lent asks more of us than surface sacrifice. It asks us to go deeper."

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Funeral Workshops

The Presbytery of WA's Rural Network are offering two Funeral Workshops to help equip lay leaders with the confidence and clarity needed to support families at a time of grief.

Online Funeral Workshop - Tuesday 17 March, 7.00pm to 8.30pm, online, led by Rev Andy Broadbent.

Funeral Workshop - Friday 20 March, 2.00pm to 5.30pm, South Perth Uniting Church, led by Rev Ric Payne.

Click on the event headings for details. For enquiries or to register contact Rev Craig Bosman, craig.bosman@wa.uca.org.au

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Lenten Retreat

The Uniting Centre for Education and Formation (UCEF) invites you to a Lenten Retreat - Rest Awhile in the Sacred Circle of Creation - on Saturday 28 March at Crossways Uniting Church in Wanneroo.

Gather this Lent for a gentle morning of reflection and renewal.
In the sacred circle of creation, we will bless what is good, grieve what is broken, imagine what is being born, and renew our commitment to walk lovingly and carefully in God’s world.

The retreat will be led by Steve Runciman, Clinical psychologist and spiritual companion, experienced teacher of Creation-Centered Spirituality.

Click below for further details and to register.

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Mission Newsletter

The latest Mission newsletter is out now, sharing thoughts on mission and disciple making, news, and information by the Presbytery Minister for Mission.

Rambling On is the newsletter from the Presbytery Minister Mission, Rev Luke Williams.

You can find this and other newsletters on our Newsletters page.

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Uniting Generations News

The February edition of Uniting Generations News is out now!

Check your inbox if you're on the mailing list, or you can read it on our website Newsletters page.

Find out more about the Uniting Generations Network here.

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Fairness, not just growth, is the key to productivity (UCA)

As the Federal Government sharpens its focus on productivity, President Rev Charissa Suli contends that it must be grounded in fairness, justice and human dignity to truly strengthen Australia’s economy. Read Article

NCCA President's reflection (NCCA)

This past week we entered the season of Lent. Lent is a ‘turning point’ season in the Church year. Read Article

With Love to the World turns 50
(Insights)

Fifty years ago, in a suburban church in Sydney, a group of Methodist parishioners and two theological college lecturers gave birth to a unique resource. Read Article

What is Lent? (UnitingWorld)

Outdated and irrelevant tradition, or the perfect season for our modern age? Read Article

ICYMI - General Secretary Announced
The Uniting Church WA is pleased to announce the appointment of David Beards as General Secretary for the Uniting Church Synod of Western Australia.
David, who has been working as General Secretary in an interim role since the beginning of the month, is now appointed to this position in a full-time capacity until the Synod meeting in September 2026, where the ongoing appointment will be determined.
David brings to this role a rare blend of grassroots church involvement, governance leadership, and senior executive experience. He has stepped in as both Acting, and Associate General Secretary positions in recent times, and we are pleased he will be able to continue to serve the church in this way.

World Day of Prayer
World Day of Prayer, 6 March, is a global ecumenical movement led by Christian women who welcome you to join in prayer and action for peace and justice. This year the material is being prepared by WDP Nigeria with the theme "I Will Give You Rest: Come”, focusing on Matthew 11:28-30. You can search for local World Day of Prayer services on the website here.

An Introduction to the Basis of Union
The Uniting Centre for Education and Formation invite you to An Introduction to the Basis of Union workshop on Saturday 14 March, 9.00am to 12.30pm at Rockingham Uniting Church. This session is open to everyone — leaders, members, and anyone who wants to understand the Uniting Church better. Cost is $10 per person.

Pinjarra Uniting Church Fundraising Dinner
All are welcome to an International Dinner raising money for Murray/ Waroona Youth Care on 13 March from 6.00pm to 8.30pm at Pinjarra Uniting Church.
Come and enjoy delicious international cuisine, with entertainment by Janie’s Boys from 6pm to 7pm, and dinner from 7pm. RSVP by 7 March.

March

Monday 2 March. Labour Day Public Holiday
Saturday 7 March, 9.00am to 2.00pm. Safe Church Awareness Workshop at South Perth Uniting Church, South Perth.
Saturday 7 March, 2.00pm. Induction Service Rev Chris Crause at Noranda Uniting Church, Noranda.
Wednesday 11 March, 6.30pm. Uniting Generations Network Meeting online via Zoom.
Saturday 14 March, 8.00am. West Timor Partnership Breakfast at Nedlands Uniting Church, Nedlands.
Saturday 14 March, 9.00am to 12.30pm. Introduction to the Basis of Union at Rockingham Uniting Church, Rockingham.
Tuesday 17 March, 7.00pm to 8.30pm. Funeral Workshop Online.
Friday 20 March, 2.00pm to 5.30pm. Funeral Workshop at South Perth Uniting Church, South Perth.
Saturday 21 March, 9.00am to 4.00pm. Presbytery of WA Meeting at Maylands-Mt Lawley Uniting Church, Maylands.
Friday 27 March, 6.00pm. Way of the Cross Art Exhibition Opening at Margaret River Uniting Church, Margaret River.
Saturday 28 March, 8.30am to 12.00pm. Lenten Retreat - Creation Spirituality at Crossways Uniting Church, Wanneroo.