Displaying items by tag: Assembly Standing Committee

The Assembly Standing Committee met online on 18-19 July 2020.

President Dr Deidre Palmer led opening worship, reflecting on Jesus' words in the Gospel of Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest," noting the fatigue that many people are carrying as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Prayers of intercession were offered for those in Victoria and parts of NSW where a second wave of infections has broken out.

The Assembly Standing Committee (ASC) met in Sydney, 8-10 November.

National Climate Action Plan: The ASC received an update on the Assembly’s response to climate change, through the development of a National Climate Action Plan. ASC member Catherine Pepper and Associate General Secretary Rob Floyd presented a draft Plan which identifies three areas of focus – the Prophetic, the Practical and the Pastoral. The draft Plan sets a target to reduce emissions by 5% per annum across all parts of the Assembly with a view to reaching zero net emissions by 2040. Further engagement with Synods, Agencies and the UAICC will take place alongside identification of operational pathways to implement the Plan.

The Uniting Church in Australia Assembly has resolved to divest from investments in corporations engaged in the extraction of fossil fuels.