As I write this update on Conference news, I’m enjoying the recollections of recent events – the memories are positive – so let me share them with you.
AdventCare Yarra Ranges Opening
Thursday 26 October started like any other day but for anyone who was part of the opening of the newly refurbished wing, it was a high day. Everyone was impressed with the newly refurbished wing. We’re very thankful for the work of ABE Constructions and Mr Geoff Rippingale as they’ve worked so closely. Without the fixed price building contract that was negotiated, the rebuilding work would not have been possible.
After the opening ceremony for the new wing, the hallways were crowded with impressed people. I heard so many expressions of delight. “That’s a nice big room” were comments I heard as residents quickly and eagerly explored the new rooms, some with their walking frames. What a great day!
New Conference Committee
The newly appointed Executive Committee and Board of Directors met for the first time on Monday 30 October. I was very impressed with the level of engagement and the wisdom shared by the committee members and I’m thankful to be able to work together as we shape the way forward for the Conference. The committee met for a full eight hours – there’s a lot to do and there are many specific requirements that need to be met at the first meeting.
Partner’s In Ministry Coordinator
Mrs Rosie Croft was reappointed as Partner’s in Ministry Coordinator. Rosie has carried this voluntary role over the last four years and her reappointment was in many ways a formality – everyone was happy for her to continue in the roll. We thank God for Rosie’s commitment and the positive contribution she’s making in caring for those who partner with their husband or wife in ministry.
Stewardship Coordinator Appointed
Pr Andrew Jasper has been appointed as the Stewardship Coordinator for the Conference, with his wife Keryn being appointed as a voluntary Assistant. We look forward to working with Andrew and Keryn as they make their contribution in these roles.
2017 Constituency Meeting Actions
We’ve picked up and followed through on the relevant actions of the recent meeting. As you may be aware, I was instructed by the constituency meeting to communicate with our team of pastors, elders and teachers to ask them to clearly and unequivocally support and communicate our beliefs (particularly in relation to the Holy Scriptures, Creation, Marriage and family and the official position of the church on Same Sex Unions) to our members and society generally. You will probably recall receiving such a letter. I’ve received so many positive responses to that letter and I’ve lost count of those who’ve expressed appreciation for our beliefs and that we as a church are affirming our beliefs. One church, in dialogue with their leadership team, chose to affirm their belief in all 28 of our fundamental beliefs in response to the matter raised. How wise is that!
Finance Report
In recent months tithing receipts have gone up and this significant increase will help us meet the yearly budget to provide pastors for our churches and to support the ministries that are so valued in our Conference. We thank God and all our faithful church members. 
Please pray for our pastors, teachers, elders, and conference leaders that we may all be effective in the work God has given us.
Many thanks.
Graeme Christian
Victorian Conference President