Every person comes to the Australia National Gathering with different hopes and expectations. Some come seeking spiritual renewal, others come to reconnect with friends, learn from new perspectives, discern future directions, or simply spend time with a community that shares their faith and values. Whatever draws us there, National Gathering creates space to listen, learn, worship, and grow together as we explore what it means to live and share Christ's mission in Australia today. We asked a few members why they are planning to attend this year's gathering. Their reflections below offer a glimpse into the many reasons people make the journey and the blessings they find when they do.
Robyn Rankin
As a pastor, I always find it beneficial to gather with other members and leaders in Community of Christ and hear different perspectives on church life across the Australian Mission Centre. Gathering together as a faith community brings energy, encouragement, focus, and spiritual nourishment and a willingness to learn and look at different ways to spread the good news of the Gospel. I know the ministry shared throughout the weekend by AMC staff and our Apostle will be uplifting and encouraging. Experiences like these reignite my sense of spirit and my desire to continue serving.
National Gathering also restores my soul and reinvigorates the blessings of community, not only within my congregation at Wingham, but across the wider Australian mission. It is a wonderful opportunity to build relationships with others walking the path of discipleship together, supporting one another through faith, prayer, and the guidance of the Spirit. I encourage you to attend. You won't be disappointed. God bless you on your spiritual journey.
Graeme Gidney
I’ve enjoyed the fellowship of church life, my family’s heritage of involvement, and opportunities to serve in leadership roles across children’s, youth, congregational, and district activities.
At this stage of life, I find myself reflecting on my age, abilities, and what I may still have to offer. I’m looking forward to supporting growing initiatives and emerging leadership, and to seeing where the future of the church may be heading. Through National Gathering, I hope to listen, learn, and discover how I might continue to contribute and serve in the years ahead.
Charmaine Unger
The things I’m most looking forward to at National Gathering are meaningful discussion, creative worship, and large group singing—hopefully while learning some new hymns as well. I’m lucky not to have significant travel costs, and I genuinely think the cost of the weekend is excellent value. There are not many places where you can enjoy a full weekend away, including accommodation and meals, for $400.
Over the past few years, I’ve had opportunities to attend camps and gatherings with other organisations, and they have reminded me just how much I miss the quality of the people who gather in Community of Christ. If we can come together to learn new ways of sharing God’s love, I believe not only will we be blessed, but the people we encounter in our everyday lives will feel that blessing, too. I can’t wait to share the experience with you all.