Adelaide’s Northern Zone gathers to encourage, connect and look ahead
On Sunday 21 June, nearly 50 ministry and congregation leaders from across the Northern Zone gathered at Good Shepherd Lutheran, Para Vista, for an afternoon of update, encouragement and discernment.
The gathering was chaired by Luke Richardson, a member of Good Shepherd Para Vista and of the Northern Zone Working Group, with assistance from Pastor Chris Mann, Zone Pastor for the region and pastor at Endeavour College, and Tania Nelson, Ministry Lead at Mawson Lakes Community Church. The aim of the afternoon was to reconnect the room with the original March 2025 forum, share what has happened since then, hear what God is doing in local communities, and consider what may be needed next.
A particularly encouraging feature of the day was the tone in the room. There was a strong sense of hope, gratitude and forward movement. Rather than simply focusing on pressures and problems, leaders were able to celebrate what God is already doing in their communities. Stories were shared of youth ministry, multicultural ministry, playgroups, school links, worship innovation, community events, stronger lay leadership, and new efforts to build belonging and mission connection.
Participants also heard about Connection Hub and were encouraged to keep using it. The website and newsletter are intended to help communities across the zone share events, good news stories, ideas and ministry opportunities. Leaders were urged not only to send through events, but also to share stories of encouragement that may strengthen others and help congregations realise they are not alone. Please visit Connection Hub, subscribe if you have not already, and send through material that others may benefit from seeing.
Another important part of the afternoon focused on lay readers and lay preachers. Their role was strongly affirmed, especially in a context where vacancies are becoming longer and local ministry capacity matters deeply. Discussion highlighted both the value of those already serving and the need to better support those coming through. Themes included mentoring, confidence, training, permission-giving culture, practical resources, and how congregations can continue to empower lay leadership rather than narrowing it.
The afternoon also included a presentation from Tim Stringer on updates to Australian Lutheran College’s lay preaching course. Tim strongly encouraged lay readers and lay preachers to grow in confidence, skill and freshness in their proclamation of God’s Word, including moving beyond dependence on notes where possible.
Overall, the gathering reinforced both the opportunities before us and the importance of continuing to support one another. Thank you to all who participated, contributed and encouraged the wider church through your presence.
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