Spiritual Vitality (Healthy Ministry)
Spiritual Vitality is one of the single biggest factors in having a healthy faith community. It is no surprise that the ‘Natural Church Development’ research pin pointed passionate spirituality as being more important than worship style, when it came to churches that are doing well around the world. Jesus’ words in John 15:4-5 explain it […]
Staying Healthy in Christian Ministry
One of the key factors influencing the health of a church is the well-being of its leaders. A major study of Australian Christian workers has been conducted at the University of Western Sydney. It makes some important findings for Pastors, others who make heavy commitments to ministry or mission, and those who care for them. […]
How’s your staff team? (Church Leadership and Teams)
We all have experiences of doing things with others. Sometimes teams are a joy, with the combined outcomes being greater than the sum of the individual parts. Sometimes teams can be difficult, with lots of time and energy being taken away from the activities and outcomes we are meant to be working towards. Team health […]
From Surgery to Acupuncture: An Alternative Approach to Managing Church Conflict from An Asian American Perspective (Conflict Resolution)
One of the features of our BUV is our cultural diversity. We see this not only in the 70+ churches and congregations who have a primary language other than English, but in the growing range of ethnic backgrounds represented in most of our churches. This is a testimony to the global scope and hospitality of […]
Guide to Developing a Code of Conduct for Church Leaders
A church’s capacity to engage with God’s mission in a particular time and place is dependent on the capacity of its people to work together in unity and act with integrity as ambassadors of Christ. This ‘Guide to Developing a Code of Conduct for Church Leaders’, assists churches to develop their own Code of Conduct within […]
Reimagine Mission Podcast Season 1-4
The Reimagine Mission podcast is a conversation with pastors, practitioners, and missional thinkers about reimagining mission in our unique contexts. New conversations hosted by Andrew Hill will be uploaded to inspire, equip, and encourage you to reimagine mission in your church and neighbourhood. Reimagine Mission is a production of the Baptist Union of Victoria. Click […]
Code of Ethics & Companion Guide for Pastoral Leaders
The Code of Ethics for Pastoral Leaders aims to provide Pastoral Leaders (and their churches) with clear guidelines and common benchmarks for ethical conduct and legal responsibility. It is not intended to replace other official documents prepared by the BUV, but should be read in conjunction with them. They include: Doctrinal Statement of the BUV […]
Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Act 2021
The Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Act 2021 came into operation on February 17th, 2022. This is an important Act for pastors and churches to be aware of with regard to individual and organisational responsibilities. The BUV has drafted some guidance for churches with regard to carrying out ministry in view of this Act. […]