Over many years of serving in God’s kingdom plans, I have learnt God invites people together, not just individuals, into His work.

At our coming Member’s meeting on Sunday 22 March, our Church Members will consider a proposed partnership with Flinders Street Baptist (FSBC) that provides part-time pastoral leadership to establish a sustained gospel church presence in the CBD. This opportunity can only flourish when we serve Jesus together. Our church, and all our gospel partnerships, thrive not through a few doing more, but as our whole church serves as one.

This proposal has felt unexpected for some people in our church. I appreciate the questions people have asked recently.

Some have asked, “Why are we doing this now?” It’s because our church is stepping up—more people are getting involved in ministry, and God is giving us more chances to serve together.

Others ask, “Why do we need to do this?” Our first six months give FSBC stability and consistent ministry so they can discern their future without anxiety. The second phase is to support them as they identify their next pastor. The third phase is to walk with them—and other mission partners —as FSBC explores its future mission directions. Our long‑term hope is clear: to strengthen an ongoing, growing CBD gospel presence.

Some wonder, “Why the CBD?” The opportunity is huge. Around 18,000 people live there. About 150,000 workers move through the city each week, international student numbers are expected to double in the next decade. The CBD is growing, and we wonder how gospel work can also grow.

Another question is, “Will Jason still preach and be here at Unley Park?” Yes. I will be at FSBC on the second Sunday of each month. Every other Sunday, I will be right here.

To support me, we plan to bring back Neil Ryan, our former UPBC Senior Pastor, as Pastoral Associate for 8 hours a week over the next 6 months. Neil and I work well together, and he already knows FSBC from his time there last year. Neil offers strong pastoral care and preaching, and even if you don’t see him much on Sundays, his role will help both churches with this partnership.

As Pastor, I’m thankful that God encourages many people to serve in our church and join in his work. We see this happening each week. I wonder, is this partnership something new for us, or is it just another way we’re already living out God’s kingdom plans?

In Him,

Jason