Multicultural Ministries VicTas Synod

27/08/2026

Dr Silvia H. J. Yang 양희정 교수님, a lay leader of the Korean Church of Melbourne and a lecturer at Melbourne University, has been commissioned as the first Korean woman lay preacher in the Uniting Church Victoria & Tasmania Synod.
Her discernment into the ministry of lay preacher began when she was asked to be one of the multicultural ministries and intercultural leadership panel members two decades ago.
As she shared her faith journey into the ministry of preaching during the commissioning service, she highlighted her pilgrimage as a faithful journey 'from teaching to preaching.'

Here I'd love to share a few photos from the service held at Korean Church of Melbourne 멜본한인교회.

23/08/2026

One of the many privileges and opportunities I have in this ministry is visiting local congregations to build worshipping relationships with leaders and community friends.

After a joyful drive, I shared my reflection with the Paynesville Uniting Church, a faith community now. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about her pilgrimage as the church recently celebrated its 100th anniversary of worshipping together. Rev Ram and Ms Marilyn warmly welcomed me upon my arrival and introduced me to church members and friends. The worship was spirit-led and engaging and the hospitality over lunch was amazing. I also had great conversations with everyone.

Another warm faithful and welcoming church in our communities.

16/08/2026

Today I was honoured to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the Ballarat Central Uniting Church.
After the service, I visited Ballarat Old Cemetery to find the graveyard of the first Australian woman missionary in Korea, Bella (Isabelle) Menzies (1856–1935). Arriving in Busan, Korea in 1891, she dedicated 33 years to her mission in Busan, Korea. She founded the first Western school for women, ILSIN Women’s School, opened orphanage homes and gathered people for worship. Later it became BusanJin Church, the first church established by Australian missionaries.
During Japan’s colonial rule (1910–1945), the ILSIN Women’s School played a role in the independence movement. As a result, many students and Australian missionaries were arrested and imprisoned. While Australian missionaries were eventually released, unfortunately, some students never returned home.

Here is an article to learn more about her mission works in Korea.

https://sites.google.com/view/australian-dictionary-of-evang/m/menzies-isabella-belle-1856-1935

07/08/2026

Trinity Brighton Uniting Church (Rev Dr Kevin Kee Yun Kim) is a singing church tonight with LIFEROAD SINGERS from South Korea.

28/07/2026

2026 Annual Korean National Conference (20~22 July 2026)

Korean National Conference 2026 The Korean National Conference recently gathered for a time of worship, fellowship and discernment, celebrating the vibrant cont

21/07/2026

More photos from 2026 Korean National Conference annual meeting and retreat

21/07/2026

2026 Korean National Conference General Meeting and Retreat (20~22 July 2026) at Belgrave Heights Centre, Victoria.

The day kicked off with a warm welcome from Rev Dr Kevin Kee Yun Kim, KNC chair, and an inspiring message from Rev Hui Young Han, KNC deputy-chair. I connected with real-life ministry stories shared by Rev Huge Ug-Gul Park from Canberra and Rev Il Woong Kim from Sydney.

The following morning was filled with reflections. Rev Hee Young Lim spoke about her recent loss of her partner after 32 years of marriage. Rev Salesi Faupula, the VicTas Synod Moderator, shared his faith pilgrimage which resonated with KNC members. Rev Dr Paul D**g Won Goh also shared his faith journey and the moment he felt called to ministry.

More stories and photos to come!

20/07/2026

변조은 목사님 진심으로 감사드립니다. 천국에서 편히
쉬세요.

Vale Rev Dr John Brown AM: a faithful pioneer of the Uniting Church July 20, 2026 It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Rev Dr John B

02/05/2026

Discerning Call Day: Reflections on Ordination and Ministry (2 May 2026)

The day opened with an inspiring morning session led by Rev. Dr. Michael Earl (UTC), who offered deep insights into the journey of Ordination within the Uniting Church in Australia.
Following a time of fellowship over lunch, the conversation shifted toward the future of discipleship through discenment. Rev. Mel Perkins and Rev. Dr. Michael Earl co-facilitated an engaging afternoon workshop titled: "Where is the Spirit Leading: Refreshing the POD."

A video recording of the morning session will be released soon.