Reflections After Six Months as Presbytery Minister (Mission)

by Rev Luke Williams

Just over six months ago, when I stepped into the role of Presbytery Minister (Mission), I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. My predecessor, Rob Douglas, did a fantastic job of engaging with congregations and providing resources and pathways to grow in missional engagement across our communities.

However, it had been more than 12 months since Rob concluded in the role, and during that time several things in the life of the Presbytery had shifted. A new working group had been established to give attention to one of the strategic priorities of the Uniting Church in WA: “Strengthening Congregations”. There have also been changes in many staff and voluntary roles across both Presbytery and Synod. But what hasn’t changed is the reality that congregations across WA are facing.

Many are working hard — seeking to engage their local communities and offer meaningful ministry. Over the past six months I’ve tried to engage as widely as possible, listening carefully and exploring creative ways forward, particularly when the future is unclear.
I’ve observed a common theme: uncertainty. Many have questions about long-term sustainability, about what wise financial management and stewardship of property looks like, about the challenges of ageing members.

In some of my recent blog posts (which you can find at unitingchurchwa.org.au/newsletters and sign up for at tiny.cc/missionblog), I’ve reflected on the crossroads moments that congregations face. These can be painful, but also present opportunities. When things can no longer be done as they have been before, space opens for fresh imagination, courageous decisions and renewed clarity about why we exist.

I am deeply grateful for the work of the Thrive Mission Committee in its various forms over the past decade, championing the cause of mission in our Presbytery. The leadership of Rev Greg Ross as chairperson, along with many others, has helped us think more deeply about our purpose as the Uniting Church in WA.

However, it seems to me that we are approaching — or perhaps have already reached — a point where reflection must give way to action. The time is now to make decisions that position us for a thriving future.

One particular theme I’ve noticed in conversations with congregations is the challenge of moving from loving and serving our local communities to helping people discover faith for themselves. From service and outreach to disciple making.

Disciple making is not an optional extra. It is central to our calling and reflected clearly in the Five Marks of Mission. And yet it is often the most challenging dimension of our life together. Many congregations are doing a wonderful job at practical service and community engagement, but feel uncertain about how to help others develop a living, growing relationship with God.

Building a Discipling Culture

But this is not an impossible challenge. We can learn to make disciples who make disciples. It’s hard work, but it’s not rocket science. In the months ahead, I’m thrilled to begin rolling out a training process called Building a Discipling Culture (BDC). This is not a replacement for training such as Mission-Shaped Ministry, but rather something that builds on the strong foundations already laid. Some have said this about the BDC process:

“I really found the process and group participation inspiring and rewarding and we are using the lessons to guide us in our Church at Rockingham.” Simon Cartwright, Chairperson of Rockingham Church Council

“Being part of BDC coaching was a rich and challenging experience … I have come away with greater clarity, renewed confidence and a deeper commitment to cultivating a discipleship culture in both my life and ministry.” Rev Sione Leaaetoa, Minister of Mount Pleasant Uniting Church

The training involves fortnightly group coaching for between one and three key leaders of a congregation, and intensive workshops for church councils and other leaders. The goal: to equip congregational leaders to train and coach their own people in how to make disciples.

For those asking more foundational questions about what mission looks like in their local context, Rev Andy Broadbent and I will also be offering a short course produced by the Synod of NSW & ACT called The Missional Lens, a simple five-session workshop that helps you think clearly and prayerfully about your own missional efforts. You can register your interest for these training opportunities at tiny.cc/missiontraining.

The challenges before us are real. But so too is the opportunity. I remain hopeful that as we act with courage, clarity and trust in God’s leading, we will see congregations strengthened and renewed for the sake of Christ’s mission in Western Australia.