Uniting Network (NSW/ACT)

Uniting Network (NSW/ACT) is a member organisation which works for safety and equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) people, their friends and families within the life of the Uniting Church in Australia. It links to the NSW Synod through the Board of Education. You can email the Network at unnsw@hotmail.com or visit http://members.ozemail.com.au/~unitingnetwork/ for more information.

During 2000/2001 the Board held discussions with Network members, and clarified the Network's link to the Board within the overall framework of the Uniting Church's national policy on diversity. Within this framework the Board has welcomed ongoing links with Uniting Network, though there is mutual agreement that the Board does not necessarily endorse every statement or action of the Network.

Uniting Network sees its ministry in two main areas - Christian education and pastoral support. In this regard the Board has viewed the link as consistent with the Board's work, particularly in adult faith development. In education, the Network provides resources and speakers for a range of Uniting Church groups, including congregations and the Centre for Ministry. Advocacy is seen to be a part of this ministry. The Network is clear that it advocates for full participation of LGBT people in the life of the Uniting Church.

In addition to education, the Network provides confidential pastoral support for LGBT people, its friends and families. Many people contact the Network in the context of distress, confusion and rejection. Referral to Uniting Church ministers, congregations and other agencies is often a part of this pastoral care.

Membership of the Uniting Network is open to all individuals, groups and congregations who support the full inclusion of LGBT people in the life of the Uniting Church. At its annual worship service and general meeting, members elect a NSW Committee and two convenors. In 2004, NSW Convenors were Elizabeth Teece and Warren Talbot.

One of the Network's public activities is participation in the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian New Mardi Gras parade and Fair Day. It is recognised that there are diverse views in the Church about the parade. Uniting Network members see their participation in evangelical terms. They believe that involvement is a witness to the lesbian and gay communities, the wider community and the Church, stressing that there are no caveats when St John writes "For God so loved the world..." (John 3).

In June 2004, a number of interstate members travelled to Sydney for the sixth biennial gathering of the national Uniting Network under the theme “One Body in Christ: Daring to Embrace Diversity”. For the third consecutive year, the Network provided an information table at the NSW Synod resource area. At this event in 2003, the Network conducted a lively lunchtime work group for interested conference attendees discussing “What does it mean to be an open and affirming congregation”. During Reconciliation Week in 2001, the Network was delighted to join its sisters and brothers from Anglican and Catholic groups, and the Metropolitan Community Church, in an Ecumenical Prayer Service. The Network has launched plans to bring the groups together again in worship in 2005.