A Journey in the Life of the Church - Evan Hooper

by Evan Hooper – Parish of Rockhampton South

When asked to provide a few words telling of my journey in the Uniting Church, I became aware of the fact that I have journeyed some thirty-seven years within the fellowship of the Methodist Church and some forty-nine years within the fellowship of the Uniting Church in Australia.

Having had the privilege and blessing of being raised within the environment of a Christian home and family, I was given the opportunity of being heavily involved in the life of our Church to the point where I made the choice of committing my life to Christ and to serve Him as effectively as I was able.

Family circumstances dictated my move into secular employment whilst still heavily involved in the life of my Church, particularly Youth Work.  After some years in secular employment, I was led to respond to a call to full-time work as a layman within Lifeline and the Department of Christian Education, within the Methodist Church.

Following ten years of service in this area of the Church’s work, my family responsibilities expanded to include a wife and three sons, together with significant extra curricular service on multiple committees within the State Conference of the former Methodist Church.

I then accepted an opportunity to assume the role of the inaugural Administrator of the Blue Nursing Service, now BlueCare, in Rockhampton – within the life of the Uniting Church in Australia, with sub-Centres at Capricorn Coast and Mt Morgan.

So much was happening in 1977 – the inauguration of the Uniting Church in Australia, and for me, settling into a new role with no footsteps to follow.  In one sense it was akin to returning home as it were, but with the additional challenge of a new role to fill.

In due course, new structures and roles within the Church began to settle, the Presbytery of Central Queensland strengthened its presence and role as it gave leadership and support to Congregations and Agents within its bounds.  Again, as a member of the Presbytery, I was able to contribute to this role.

Of course, as time passes, there are decisions relating to property which have to be made, and these can be painful, particularly when these decisions involve disposing of Church property, for all sorts of reasons.  Central Queensland Presbytery has had to face these issues on numerous occasions.

One of the great advantages of being part of the Uniting Church is the opportunity it affords its members to participate in the Church life at whatever level they choose.

The Church’s programs include Lay Preacher Training, Children’s and Youth ministries, Care of the Elderly, Christian Education, Care for the Sick, Handicapped, Disadvantaged, Prison Ministry and Chaplaincy Services and more.  We can all be involved at whatever level, in any of these Programs.

I am indeed grateful for the opportunities I have been offered over the years, to serve and to allow God’s Spirit to work in and through me to touch and affect the lives of others.