Rev Andrew Gunton has been inducted as the new Moderator of the Uniting Church in Australia, Queensland Synod.
The service was held at the Queensland Synod office in Auchenflower on Thursday 22 October 2020 and attended by a small number of family and friends in line with COVID-19 restrictions as well as livestreamed so that others could witness the historic event.
Since his ordination in 2002, Andrew has served in ministerial placements in Rockhampton South, Arana Hills and most recently, Oxley Darra and as Presbytery Minister for the Moreton Rivers Presbytery.
Andrew said the opportunity to be the spiritual head of the Queensland Synod for the next three years was a tremendous opportunity to make positive change and reconnect the church with communities.
“By doing that, we will discover what people in our communities are genuinely concerned about and then identify ways in which the Uniting Church can make a positive difference,” says Andrew.
“We have tremendous reach, not only through our congregations but through agencies like UnitingCare Queensland and Wesley Mission Queensland as well as our hospitals, aged-care facilities, schools and early learning services. By working together across the whole Uniting Church network, we will be able to tangibly impact communities across Queensland.
Andrew takes over the role from Rev David Baker who has served as Moderator for the past six years and will commence a new role as Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Churches Together in January 2021.
“David’s contribution to the Queensland Synod, not only just in his time as Moderator but in his ministerial career, has been profound,” says Andrew.
“He has the prayers of the entire Uniting Church community and we wish him well as he strengthens ecumenical relationships in his new role.”
Note for media: To arrange an interview with Andrew, please contact James O’Callaghan.
Media contact:
James O’Callaghan
Communications Coordinator, Uniting Church in Australia, Queensland Synod
0437 368 744
James.ocallaghan@ucaqld.com.au
