General Secretary – Conclusion of Placement
Dear all
I write on behalf of the Synod Standing Committee to advise that at its meeting on Saturday, August 8 the Standing Committee resolved to approve Rev Dr Mark Lawrence concluding his placement as General Secretary of the Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, on March 31, 2027.
This decision follows a period of reflection and discernment by Mark.
Mark has served as General Secretary for around 14 years. Over that time, he has offered significant leadership to the Synod and the wider Church, working alongside successive Moderators and Standing Committees, Presbyteries, congregations, agencies, institutions, committees and staff.
There will be another time, closer to the conclusion of Mark’s placement, to more fully acknowledge and give thanks for his ministry and the contribution he has made over these many years. For now, I simply want to acknowledge the significance of his decision and express our gratitude for the commitment, wisdom and energy he has brought, and continues to bring, to the role.
Mark has indicated that part of his discernment has been shaped by the significant period ahead in the life of the Uniting Church. During 2027, the Church will mark its 50th anniversary, the 18th Assembly will meet, and our own Synod will continue its discernment around Faithful Futures and the implications of Act2. Mark believes this is an appropriate time for the Synod to begin discerning the leadership of its next General Secretary, particularly with a view to the life and mission of the Church beyond 2027.
While Mark’s placement formally concludes on March 31, 2027, he is expected to commence annual and long service leave in late November 2026. The precise date will be confirmed at the October Synod Standing Committee meeting. From the commencement of Mark’s leave, Rev Sharon Hollis, Associate General Secretary, will serve as Acting General Secretary for the remainder of Mark’s placement.
The Standing Committee is also beginning the work required for the discernment and appointment of the next General Secretary, including paying particular attention to the resolutions from the 2025 Synod meeting about the recruitment of the next General Secretary. We will ensure that presbyteries are kept informed about the process as decisions are made.
Transitions in leadership are significant moments in the life of the Church. They invite us both to give thanks for what has been and to attend carefully to where the Spirit may be leading us next. As Pilgrims of the Spirit, we make that journey together, grateful for those who have carried responsibility along the way, while remaining open to the gifts and leadership God will call forth for the next part of our journey.
I invite you to hold Mark, Sharon, the Synod Standing Committee, and the Church across the Synod in prayer as we move through this period of transition and discernment.
For now, Mark continues in his responsibilities as General Secretary, and I know that many of you will continue to work closely with him over the coming months.
Kelesi moe Melino – Grace and peace,
Rev Salesi Faupula
Moderator, Synod of Victoria and Tasmania