General News
19 June, 2026
Ararat Uniting Church celebrates 49 years
THE Ararat Congregation of the Uniting Church will be sharing in the national anniversary of the church in Australia with Rev Rosemary Carter, Chairperson of the Presbytery of Western Victoria, as the guest preacher. All past and present members and people from the wider Ararat community are welcome to the service at St Andrews in Barkly Street, starting at 10 am
The Uniting Church was an amalgamation of three denominations on 22 June 1977: Methodists, most Presbyterians and Congregationalists.
Its first President (national leader) was Rev Dr J David McCaughey, who later became the 23rd Governor of Victoria.
“There really are significant things that the church is still doing, but it might be a smaller group, but active, like emergency relief,” said Frank Kitchen, a councilman at the church.
“You've got the fellowship and friendship of the people.”
The church has had a progressive perspective exploring new paths in worship, practices and service.
The church shows commitment to the ordination of women from the beginning and affirmation of the ministries of women, embracing people in same-sex relationships, an ongoing commitment to Aboriginal justice and reconciliation as well as creating Uniting Care, one of Australia’s largest charitable services.
Church life and attendance have declined since 1977, as is common around Australia.
“Churches are declining very, very rapidly,” Mr Kitchen said.
Morning tea will be served directly after the service.
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