Uniting Church Synod refutes misrepresentation in the media

The Moderator of the Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of New South Wales and the ACT, The Rev. Myung Hwa Park has provided the following statement in response to media reports today regarding the removal of religious symbols from logos and avoiding reference to Christ to distance itself from survivors of sex abuse and implying the Church is divided. 

The Church is not removing any symbols or reference to Christ from its branding.

• Read the President of the Uniting Church, Stuart McMillan’s statement here 

The Church does not seek to distance itself from survivors of child sex abuse. Such assertions are untrue, hurtful and disrespectful to survivors.

From the outset of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, the Uniting Church has committed itself to working openly and transparently with the Commission.

We continue to work with the survivors to achieve healing, justice and reconciliation for those who have suffered.

The media reports today refer to Uniting (formerly UnitingCare NSW/ACT) which is the Church agency responsible for the work of community services including aged care, chaplaincy and social justice advocacy activities of the Uniting Church here in the New South Wales and ACT Synod.

About a year ago Uniting underwent a thoroughly researched and comprehensive rebrand and this was with the blessing of the Synod so that Uniting could have a brand that further enhances their services.

We can proudly say we are a church with a mission to bring people to God’s love, responding to human need and strengthening community.

We stand by our agencies and commend the work they do.

In our congregations we witness first hand God’s work in our communities and the expression of the love of Jesus Christ.

Never before have we been more united and blessed as a Church.

The Moderator, Rev. Myung Hwa Park

For Further Information Please Contact:

Lisa Sampson, Media Consultant
T:  02 8267 4303 M: 0414 947 000
E:  lisas@nsw.uca.org.au

Adrian Drayton, Communications Manager
T:  02 8267 4304 M: 0430 871 740
E: adriand@nsw.uca.org.au