Broadview Uniting Church.

The Challenge

As the congregation became increasingly intercultural, it was no longer possible to assume shared cultural reference points in worship, language, or leadership. The pastoral and organisational demands of this diverse community quickly exceeded the capacity of one full-time minister and a small volunteer base.

Broadview reached a critical moment: without additional resourcing, growth would not be sustainable.

The UC Invest Response

With support from a UC Invest backed grant, Broadview was able to respond intentionally rather than reactively. The grant enabled the creation of a dedicated intercultural ministry role, initially funded at 0.3 FTE, providing practical capacity at a crucial time in the church’s life.

This role supports inclusive worship, coordinates communication across cultures, organises multicultural gatherings, and ensures emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds are seen, supported, and encouraged.

Just as importantly, UC Invest’s support gave the congregation confidence to step forward in faith. Broadview committed its own resources, accepted a modest deficit budget, and established a clear three year pathway toward sustainability, with the goal of progressively funding the role as the congregation continues to grow.

“Just as importantly, the grant became a moment of trust and encouragement. With UC Invest’s support, the congregation committed its own resources, accepted a modest deficit budget, and set a clear path toward sustainability”

The Impact

The impact of this additional capacity was felt quickly. Songs are now shared ahead of time via YouTube so people can participate confidently, regardless of language or background. Shared meals and multicultural gatherings have become central to congregational life, helping people move from simply being present to genuinely belonging.

Leadership is also being shared more sustainably, easing pressure on existing ministers and creating space for new voices to emerge.

Strengthening Leadership for the Future

A key outcome of the UC Invest supported ministry has been Broadview’s ability to identify and support leaders from within its own community. One significant step has been the appointment of Daniel Phan.

Daniel is a second generation Chinese Vietnamese Australian and a member of Broadview’s Church Council. He is a candidate for the Ministry of the Word, currently serving in a Minister of Pastor role within the Uniting Church, and is completing a Master of Theological Studies at the Uniting College for Leadership and Theology.

Daniel’s lived experience, theological formation, and pastoral sensitivity have strengthened Broadview’s intercultural leadership, particularly among younger generations and families navigating faith across cultures. His appointment reflects a congregation growing in confidence and maturity as it invests in leadership that mirrors the community it now serves.