Ex-Moderator, Rev Steve Francis, gave his final Moderator’s Report to the 44th Annual Meeting of the Synod of WA on Saturday 12 September at Wesley College.
Steve has served as Moderator, the public leader and spokesperson, of the Uniting Church in Australia (UCA), Synod of Western Australia for two consecutive trienniums 2014 to 2020.
Steve was true to character, by beginning his address to the Synod thanking members for their support over the last six years, apologising and asking for forgiveness for his shortcomings.
“Sorry, when I didn’t listen well, act quickly enough, when my words were clumsy and when my leadership was found wanting,” said Steve.
At the conclusion of six years as Moderator, Steve also had a challenge for the Synod
“One of my mantras is ‘ora et labora’ which is latin meaning prayer and work,” said Steve.
Throughout his terms and into the future, Steve will continue to pray and work for renewal of the church, spread of the gospel, making of disciples, to be people of justice and that all things are done in love.
Synod stood in acclamation acknowledging Steve’s faithful service as the leader of the Uniting Church WA.
A video message from Uniting Church in Australia President, Dr Deidre Palmer, acknowledged Steve’s wisdom, leadership and faithful service as Moderator which was valued nationally and internationally.
All Saints Floreat Uniting Church Minister, Rev Dr Ian Tozer led the Synod in prayer for Steve and his wife, Rev Kim Francis. It was an emotional farewell to Steve in his role of Moderator, but the church will continue to benefit from his gifts as he continues in the role of Ex-Moderator to support Moderator, Susy Thomas for the next three years.
Steve’s full written report is available on the Uniting Church WA website https://unitingchurchwa-startdigital.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Moderator-Report.pdf.