Resources
The BUV provides a range of resources to help equip and empower Baptist leaders for mission in their local settings.
All resources are now provided via this page and are searchable via several search criteria.
- If you know what you are searching for please type a key word into the first Search box (this will include any resource with the words entered).
- If you are searching for a key phrase (eg Be safe) – please enter the key phrase in between ” ” (eg “be safe”)
- Or you can use one of the other Search Criteria drop-down menus to find resources to help you
If you are having trouble finding a resource, please contact comms@buv.com.au or phone (03) 9880 6155 and we will help you navigate through the criteria.
Bible Project creates free resources to help the church experience the Bible. The church can access to entire library of videos, podcasts, classes and other resources. Click here to find out more
The Bible for Normal People is a popular podcast and educational platform co-founded by biblical scholars Pete Enns and Jared Byas. It is designed to bridge the gap between high-level academic biblical scholarship and everyday people, focusing on the questions: “What is the Bible, and what do we do with it?” One of their recent […]
A 10-Week Life-Changing Discipleship course (DVD based) from Bestselling author Neil T. Anderson. Becoming more like Christ is a lifelong endeavour that may seem overwhelming, especially to those who don’t know the next steps. This kit includes a 10 session DVD, student guide, leader’s guide, and The Steps to Freedom in Christ — all of […]
The “My Journey Workbook” is a comprehensive and transformative curriculum, designed to facilitate meaningful discussions within the MIM (Man in the Mirror) men’s small group over the course of three years. The workbook delves into a wide range of thought-provoking topics, encouraging men to explore key aspects of their lives, including identity, significance, integrity, temperament, […]
Fan the Flame is a powerful 7 week kids ministry curriculum designed to help children discover what it means to be fully devoted followers of Jesus. Based on the book of Acts and aligned with the Queensland Baptists’ devotional series, this curriculum brings the early church to life in fun, relatable ways for kids – […]
This book explores enjoying a relationship with God in the midst of everyday life. It includes reflection questions suitable for individuals or groups. This fosters the understanding that discipleship is primarily the outworking and growth of relationship with God rather than simply following a programme or scheme. Click here to find out more
Alpha is a safe place to ask life’s biggest questions. Through a series of talks, videos, and discussions, Alpha presents the basics of Christianity in an accessible and relevant way. Alpha helps create interactive spaces for exploring life, faith and meaning through connection, content and conversation. Click here to find out more
Experiencing God is a book and short course for groups designed to help believers to grow in relationship with God. It trains believers to be attentive to what God is doing around them and discern how they might participate in that. Click here to find out more
Most pastors see Professional Pastoral Supervision (PPS) as an important priority and want to gain the most from each session. But as the time draws closer to each session, we often wonder, “What am I going to talk about?” Download this resource to assist in your next session
Sometimes in church life tension arises about whether priority should be given to the growth of church members or to outreach to others. Should we focus on Discipleship or on Mission or are both integrally linked like two sides of a coin? Includs reflective questions Click here to download this Discipleship and Mission resource
A disciple was someone who learnt from a teacher, but unlike our modern understanding, the image is not so much a student taking notes and passing exams, but an apprentice who watches and imitates the teacher so as to adopt their behaviour and practice. Disciples became like their teachers. Click here to download the What […]
The spiritual disciplines and ministry practices that are generally promoted in discipleship schemes are helpful to the extent that they assist us to embrace and live out relationship with God through Christ and in the Spirit. But let us remember that such disciplines and practices are not ends in themselves. The Christian life is much […]
A great discipleship resource by John Mark Comer for churches that is free and very helpful. Your church may want to take the whole church through the practices e.g., the sabbath, prayer and scripture, generosity etc. The practices will have a positive impact on the church in term of discipleship. Click here to find out […]
Download your May Prayer Calendar (jpg) Download your May Prayer Calendar (pdf)
Download your April Prayer Calendar (jpg) Download your April Prayer Calendar (pdf)
You’re ready to start a new missional community or to plant a new church and make a lasting difference. Now what?! Starting a new church or missional community involves both spiritual and practical considerations. This document will help you: Determine which BUV affiliation type suits your current needs Navigate essential administrative and government requirements Identify […]
A journey into belonging, presence, and prayerful communion with God with 11 chapters that include an encouragement, reflection questions and a guided prayer practice. Written by Rev Cameron Healey Click here to download the How to be His resource
This article written by Whitley College’s Associate Professor in Spirituality & Spiritual Care, Robyn Wrigley-Carr, explores the role of adoration in our prayer life and likens prayer without adoration to a triangle with one side missing Click here to download
Senior Pastor of Albert Park Baptist Church and Coordinator of BUV’s Prayer Network, Cameron Healey, writes an article on the foundation of Prayer being Presence and being attentive to God who is already present with us and in us. Before prayer is speech, it is relationship. Before it is effort, it is awareness. Click here […]
The Lord’s Prayer is the most famous prayer in history, crafted by Jesus himself. This prayer tool will unpack its significance and demonstrate how it can be used as a model and a map. Click here to download te 24/7 guide on How to Pray the Lords Prayer
A prayer for all churches and communitise of faith within the wider Baptist Union of Victoria Click here to download
A guided prayer for our world and our nation – curated by Rev Kat Mattia-Miller Click here to download the guided prayer for the world
A prayer for the unrest in the Middle East written by one of the BUV’s Persian pastors. Click here to download
Myanmar has been devastated by conflict since the military coup in 2021. Recent funding cuts, along with the 7.7 magnitude earthquake on March 28, has added further strain on all humanitarian agencies, and much assistance is needed across the whole region. Please join with us in praying for the people of Myanmar, for family members […]
Rev Kimberly Smith reflects: When I was a young girl, I wrote poetry. Instead of journaling, I recorded all of my teenage angst and emotions in prose – book after book, page after page, pouring out my heart. I reflected on relationships and events, narrating life as I observed it. I’ve kept some of those […]
Download your March Prayer Calendar (jpg) Download your March Prayer Calendar (pdf)
One truly wonderful aspect of our Christian faith is the forgiveness offered in Jesus. Stephen Millington, a member at Portland Baptist Church, has a BTheol (Hon) at Whitley with a major in Worship and Liturgical Studies, presents a snippet regrding the power of confession through prayer and spoken forgiveness. Click here to download
A FREE training resource from Crossover with thanks to the support of Christian Finance What if you found yourself inside Jesus’ most famous story? The Middle Sister Project imagines conversations with the prodigal son at different stages of his misadventure. This framework enables us to consider the good news we have for Runaways, Winners, Survivors […]
Crossover is excited to partner with Olive Tree Media and Karl Faase to offer Encounter Easter—a church resource package to help Australians explore the reality of God through stories of transformation, faith, and hope. Encounter Easter can be run as a stand-alone Easter series, but works best as a 9-week, 10-session series leading right up to and across Easter. Encounter features authentic stories of […]
The BUV Pastoral Health & Growth Covenant is a tool for all BUV Pastoral/Missional Leaders who want to invest in ongoing health and growth. As such, it is encouraged for all Pastors, but it is not compulsory. (It is required for Pastoral Leaders who seek accreditation with our BUV – see BUV Pastoral Leadership Accreditation […]
The BUV recommended Stipend and Superannuation provides recommendation Stipend and Superannuation amounts for Pastors. It is updated annually and approved at the October’s Assembly meeting and should be read in conjunction with the Guidelines for Healthy Church/Pastor Relationships. Click here to download the Stipend and Superannuation recommendations
All BUV member churches are required to share in the financial cost of BUV Support Hub mission and ministry services through an annual membership fee. The Membership Fee is directed towards the BUV operating budget to help cover services and resources provided to member churches and agencies. The BUV Support Hub is here to support our churches through our different departments (Office of the DoMM, Pastoral Leadership & Support Development, Communications, Church […]
This form may be completed by anyone who wishes to report a concern about the safety of any person within the church community, such as due to child abuse, neglect or sexual harassment. Click here to download
A Safe Church Contact Person (sometimes called Child Safety Officer or Safeguarding officer) acts as a contact point general questions or suggestions about keeping people safe within the life of the church. They also receive formal and informal concerns of abuse and misconduct within the church. Click here for Safe Church contact person general information […]
The Auslan Bible Translation Project began in 1997. Since that time, the Auslan Bible Committee have working in partnership with Bible Society Australia who provide translation expertise and financial support. In 2023 Wycliffe Australia joined the project and is now also involved in supporting translation work. The Auslan Bible is a resource for your Church […]
24/7 Prayer is an international, interdenominational movement of prayer, mission and justice; a non-stop prayer meeting that has continued for every minute of this century so far, in over half the countries on Earth. Click here to find resources on Prayer, Prayer Rooms and National and International Prayer events.
Use this temple form to record any concerns or allegations received about harm to a child or other vulnerable person. It should be completed ideally by the person who raised the concern, or, by the Safe Church Contact Person. Click here to download the template
Victorian Baptists are committed to providing making our church communities and programs safe. This is an expression of loving our neighbours as well as fulfilling our legal obligations. Every local church should have a policy committing the organisation to providing a safe environment, particularly for children and vulnerable adults. Click here to download the sample […]
Risk management refers to the process of identifying possible harms that might occur during the course of your ministry; then, reducing or preventing the likelihood of that harm occurring or how severe the consequence would be if it did occur. Common risks that should be considered include damage to the physical property, physical injury, psychological […]
Loneliness can touch anyone, no matter their age or stage of life. It might come with the loss of a loved one, a move to a new city, a relationship breakdown, or simply feeling unnoticed in the busyness of life. Whatever the reason, loneliness leaves a deep ache — the sense that no one truly […]
Baptist pastoral leaders may be eligible to be licensed as Marriage Celebrants. In this role pastors are required to fulfil both pastoral and legislative requirements, so a period of preparation is required. The BUV will only recommend pastors who have: Completed their Accreditation Attended a Marriage Celebrant Training Day every five years Completed Prepare/Enrich pre marriage […]
Developed by Crossover Exploring Baptism – Going all in with Jesus is a 16-page interactive booklet baptism explainer written especially for children and young people. This booklet will encourage you to think a little about why you want to be baptised and what you already know about it, as well as looking at what baptism is and […]
Life is busy, and we get it. That’s why QB Kids and Families have created bite-sized episodes to help you and your family grow in faith – whether you’re on the way to school, work, church or even cricket practice! Season 1, Fan the Flame, dives into the book of Acts, aligning with the Queensland […]
Family Faith Rhythms is a unique resource is designed for families of all types, ages, and stages, aiming to foster spiritual growth and discipleship within the home. Through a set of beautifully designed cards, Family Faith Rhythms offers practical activities and insights to help your family thrive in faith and grow as a Christian unit. […]
The BUV has a desire to see an expression of church in every corner of Victoria. This will come about as we join with God and one another, Together on Mission. As we have seen with the response to our 2020 Bushfire Appeal, a lot of people giving a little, can make a remarkable difference. […]
“Each generation tells of your faithfulness to the next.” – Isaiah 39:19 A Lasting Legacy to Advance God’s Kingdom Thank you for prayerfully considering a gift in your Will. Including a gift in Will (Bequest) to the BUV means you can leave a lasting legacy to advance God’s kingdom. This is because your gift can allow […]
Be SAFE is a free system BUV have developed to help churches manage their Essential Safety Measures (ESM) and Duty of Care Compliance. It also has a module called Housekeeping. For Church Sign Up or to Log in go to Be SAFE This link also has training video and getting started instructions Essential Safety Measures (ESM) The requirements are based on the […]
Lodging your Professional Pastoral Supervision session and invoice/receipt is an online process where you complete a form and upload invoice. You may complete the form and upload your invoice each time you complete your sessions. Alternatively, you may choose to upload your invoices in bulk (up to 3 invoices). By uploading your three paid receipts […]
Please find below a series of frequently asked questions in relation to Accreditation. Who has to do PPS? Any locally appointed or ordained pastoral leader currently ministering in a Victorian Baptist ministry setting is required to be accredited through the Baptist Union of Victoria and undertake PPS as part of the BUV accreditation requirements.A pastoral […]
People enter into ministry in response to a gracious call from God and the Church. It is this call that requires Pastoral Leaders to carry out their responsibilities in a faithful, professional and accountable manner. As Scripture says: “See to it that you fulfil the ministry that you have received from the Lord” (Col 4:17). […]
A reminder email will be sent at least 4 weeks prior to your accreditation expiry date. The process to renew BUV accreditation is the same as the initial accreditation process. If you allow your BUV accreditation to lapse, there is a risk of losing numerous benefits that are available to you as a BUV Accredited […]
Once the Accreditation criteria has been met, the following can occur. Complete and submit your Pastoral Accreditation Form (Blue tab at bottom of page) Ask your designated Church Leader to complete and submit the Church Leaders Form (Green tab at bottom of page) Email or upload a passport photo (white background) to accreditation@buv.com.au PASTORS – […]
BUV accreditation has two key objectives: To provide a positive support framework for Pastoral Leaders in order for them to thrive through their commitment to the call of God on their lives. Accreditation supports the establishment of rhythms and disciplines that would make a positive contribution to the health and sustainability of our Pastoral Leaders. […]
WHAT IS COVERED IN THE CREATING SAFE SPACES TRAINING? Information on how to create and maintain your church as a safe place, with safe programs run by leaders who are trained and certified for working with children and vulnerable people. The training modules cover Safe Church Culture, Safe Church Practice and Protecting Children and Vulnerable Adults. An […]
The Statement of Understanding is a key document that supports healthy and sustainable Church leadership. It outlines the agreed terms between a Church and its Pastor—covering stipend, working conditions, responsibilities, and mutual expectations. Aligned with BUV Guidelines for Healthy Church/Pastor Relationships, it provides clarity, accountability, and care for both pastors and congregations. The associate pastor […]
Devotion developed by Crossway Baptist Church for their 7 days of prayer specifically to be used for youth and young adults. The resource offers ideas for prayer practices for each day of the week. Click here to download the Seven Days of Prayer
Church Size Dynamics is an online training resource that includes a 15minutes video and workbook. This training resource aims to help church leaders and Pastors understand how different churches operate at different sizes and implement required changes to transition to a desirable future. Through the learning activities, leaders will be able to: Recognise the dynamics associated with […]
We have developed a series of 4 devotions / sermon starters or small group guides that can be used by pastors, small group leaders, or as personal devotional studies under the banner of Transforming Love. Each study has been written by a pastor from the BUV Support Hub. These are free resources that can be […]
In 2014, the BUV allocated resources to the Church Development Fund to demonstrate our commitment to partner with our Victorian Baptist churches in facilitating mission and outreach. The BUV Leadership Team overseas this Fund and annually, a Mission Grants budget is steward by the Mission Catalyst Team (MCT) with the assistance of the Mission Grant […]
The Baptist Union of Victoria (BUV) accredits and ordains women and men who are called to pastoral leadership in and on behalf of Victorian Baptist Church communities. We desire to see pastoral leaders in our movement that are spiritually mature, theologically reflective, and emotionally resilient who are pastorally and missionally engaged in their communities. To […]
The Baptist Union of Victoria (BUV) accredits and ordains women and men who are called to pastoral leadership in and on behalf of Victorian Baptist Church communities. We take seriously the responsibility to form and equip pastoral leaders that are spiritually mature, theologically reflective, and emotionally resilient and who are pastorally and missionally engaged in […]
Creator God has blessed us with the oldest living people and culture here on these lands we now call Australia. However, since colonisation, our First Nations peoples have been treated with indignity. They have experienced loss of land, culture, language, and they have lost many precious lives. We have the opportunity to listen, lament and […]
Do you give all new employees a copy of the Fair Work Information Statement? All employers are required to give it to every new employee so they are aware of their entitlements. Fair Work has recently updated the Fair Work Information Statement, so make sure you’re providing the new version. Click here for more information
Every ministry, whether a once-off event or an ongoing ministry, should have an “Approval for Ministry” form completed by its leader/s and signed by senior leadership, before going ahead. It is recommended that every ongoing ministry to reviewed annually, to ensure that the program remains physically, emotionally and spiritually safe. Click here to download the […]
It is strongly recommend that your church hold permission forms regarding to the use of a child’s image – through video, streaming or photographs. Download the sample video/photo permission form for editing to your specific situation Download Video/Photo Permission form It is strongly recommended that your church hold a permission form for each child or […]
Churches have legal, insurance and ethical obligations to keep people safe while engaging with their church, including while online. This includes situations such as live streaming worship services, online youth events (such as LAN/gaming), and communicating via social media. For information about staying safe online, visit the eSafety website For resources in languages other than […]
All ministries should have enough leaders (over age of 18) to ensure that the participants and program is safe. All ministries with children should have two leaders minimum at all times. More leaders, and/or, leaders with higher qualifications and experience will be required for more specialised programs or participants with higher needs The recommended adult/child […]
Hospitality and fellowship involving food is commonplace in churches. Often it is simply a cuppa and a biscuit after church or the serving of communion. At other times churches hold sausage sizzles, pot luck lunches, formal dinners, casual meals at bible study groups, run cake stalls, serve meals to the wider community, sell food as […]
Churches have legal obligations to provide first aid facilities and sufficient staff trained in first aid. A rough guideline would be to have one trained first aider for every 50 participants, with a minimum of one per ministry or event. For example- if 200 people attend your Sunday worship service, you should ensure four (4) […]
The Reportable Conduct Scheme was established to improve organisations’ responses to allegations of harm to children by their workers and volunteers. The Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP) is responsible for administering the scheme. If there is an allegation that a staff member, volunteer or contractor of your church has engaged in ‘reportable conduct’ […]
Child Safe Standards legislation outlines action required by organisations to keep children and young people safe. The Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP) is responsible for administering the Child Safe Standards legislation. The updated Child Safe Standards came into effect on 1 July 2022. The main change between the prior 7 Standards and the current 11 […]
Work, Health and Safety (WHS) (previous known as Occupational Health and Safety- OHS) is the discipline concerned with protecting the health and safety of all people in the workplace from exposure to hazards and risks resulting from work activities. The local church has a duty to protect the physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of all […]
If you have a concern for someone’s safety (including your own) please seek support, and, pass on your concern appropriately. In an emergency, call 000 and ask for police, fire brigade or ambulance. There are a range of situations which are legally required to be reported to the relevant authority, particularly regarding child sexual abuse […]
An induction is the process of introducing a new team member to the church culture and the ministry’s aims, as well as the processes and tasks undertaken in that role. By completing an induction you are both making the team member aware of their responsibilities (including how to report injuries and concerns of abuse and […]
The BUV recommends churches conduct a National Police Record Check (aka Police Check) that certain roles, prior to commencing their role: This includes paid staff and senior leadership (including deacons/elders), the head of each ministry, and Safe Church Contact Person. BUV recommends the treasurer undertakes a new Police Check, every 3 years. BUV accredited pastors […]
The Working with Children Check (WWCC) helps protect children from harm by preventing those who pose an unjustifiable risk to children from working with or caring for them. It does this by screening people’s criminal records and professional conduct history. The WWCC focuses on serious sexual, violent and drug offences, and the Department of Justice […]
As a treasurer, you are responsible for overseeing the financial management of your church and assisting in financial reporting to the church and external entities. Saward Dawson has provided an interactive Treasurers handbook with the duties and responsibilities as a treasurer, such as property and trust management, GST and income tax, employer obligations and financial […]
Church document retention is important to understand the history of a church. As apart of the Victorian Baptist Historical Society (hyperlink), the BUV archives collect and records historical church minutes, annual reports and financial statements, special events, architectural plans, photographs and marriage registers etc. Please contact our archivist Marita Munro at archives@buv.com.au for all archive […]
The follow advisory guide is for Pastors and Churches for any fees payable related to visiting preachers, and individuals conducting or helping with weddings and funerals. This guide also considers reimbursement of travel costs, and musician and other fees. These fees are applicable from 1 January 2025. Click here to download
Moussaoui Designs Interested in building or renovating your property, or just after some architectural advice? Moussaoui Designs provide micro-advisory services such as interior design, documentation and space planning, furniture procurement and contract administration. Moreover, they assist with macro-advisory services such as asset use, feasibility and commercial development concepts. Dana Moussaoui Level 1/488 Victoria Street, Richmond […]
Dennis K Wright & Assoc It is recommended that church have up to date financial records for decision-making, management and to meet legal and tax obligation. Dennis K Wright & Associates can provide auditing services to churches to ensure their financial statements are accurate and correct. Dennis Wright Ste 2/ 3 Alexandra St, Melton VIC […]
McCracken & McCracken Solicitors Churches may need legal advice to assist in property, conveyance, compensation and trust related matters. McCracken & McCracken Solicitors is a trustworthy and compassionate law firm with solicitors that provide churches with practical and cost-effective legal advice. Stephen Morton Level 1, 60 Railway Road, Blackburn VIC 3130 Phone: 03 9894 3333 […]
A church is entitled to use its property as a loan security to borrow money for further property purchase or building improvements. The following guide provides a checklist of what a church must follow for this process. Click here to downad the guide
A church may wish to change their church name for the next chapter in its ministry, however, an alteration to your church constitution must be made to do so. The BUV recommends churches to review their constitution every 5 years, by which a name change may occur. This guide outlines the required procedure to make […]
A Special Church Meeting allows church leaders to discuss matters and plans of the church, and to create resolutions for important decisions relating to property and pastoral matters. The following guide lists the rules and checklist for holding a Special Church Meeting, as well as what distinguishes a Special Church Meeting from a normal meeting. […]
A church may wish to lease their property, or part of their property to generate additional income to support a purpose outlined by the church. The following guide explains the lease procedure that the church must follow, by which the BUV can assist in executive the lease documents with the tenant. It is important to […]
For a church wanting to relocate, expand or a new church searching for a place to meet, the BUV must be involved as the proprietor of the Certificate of Title on behalf of the church. The following guide highlights the steps and legal documents required when wanting to purchase a property, as well as a […]
In the event of relocation or closing, a church may wish to sell or mortgage the Trust Premises. The church must follow the set procedure outlined in Schedule B, which goes through the BUV as the Trustee. It is important to note that any proceeds from the sale or mortgage of the Trust Premises will […]
Church meetings are important for when a church is wanting to make an important decision or action. This is written as a ‘resolution’ that identifies the action and provides clear records of decision. It is important that resolutions are written clear and succinct, by which this guide provides samples for a church on how to […]
Exponential is a growing community of leaders committed to accelerating the multiplication of healthy, reproducing faith communities. Free resources on discipleship and evangelism can be found on their website: https://exponential.org/books/
The Community Portrait is a tools for churches to understand and engage local communities. Using demographics, field trips, prayer walks, and observation, it identifies community strengths, needs, and opportunities for collaboration. This process fosters deeper connections, supports mission work, and aligns with God’s presence in neighborhoods. Click here to download the Community Portrait tool
Community development is both a method of community work and a set of values to establish and maintain ministries in local communities. Community development work identifies some aspects of a community’s ‘preferred future’. The BUV can work with your church to identify and build the capacity of individuals and groups of people to realise this […]
Welcome to our TOGETHER ON MISSION podcast, brought to you by the Baptist Union of Victoria, and hosted by our Director of Mission and Ministries, Rev Daniel Bullock. Daniel will be joined by a guest from our Victorian Baptist family each week for a brief discussion that aims to encourage you in your personal walk of faith […]
When a RAALS loan really means a new life The Refugee Airfare and Assistance Loan Scheme (RAALS) was created in 2004 by the Baptist Union of Victoria, in response to hearing stories of the difficulties faced by refugees trying to bring their families to a new life in Australia. These stories continue today and tell […]
Screening is part of the leadership appointment process. It is one way that the leadership can determine in advance if a particular individual is appropriate and eligible to lead or volunteer within the church. The main steps that should be followed when appointing a leader or volunteer are: Have a position description for each role […]
What is Membership of a Baptist church? What does becoming a member mean? Why would someone become a member? Based on Luke 24: 13 – 35, this introduction provides answers for these questions through scripture, and explores the foundations of a Member’s Covenant and provides examples of church covenants. Click here to download the Covental […]
A reflection and introduction piece written by Rev David Devine, looking at ethical pastoral leadership and it means actively engage rather than simply complying with them. Download the Ethical Pastoral Leadership Resource
As part of the Australian Government’s Secure Jobs, Better Pay changes, rules about using fixed term contracts have changed from 06 December 2023. The BUV sought legal advice from Colin Biggers & Paisley on how the new legislations will affect the BUV and our churches. Summary of their advice can be accessed through this link. […]
Churches wanting to become a BUV constituent must have their church constitution approved by the Union Council in accordance with the BUV constitution. A constitution can be lengthy as it is a detailed document that covers the church composition, membership, leadership, financial and general matters. The following guide aims to assist churches in the drafting […]
The current Schedule B considers all amendments made in 1968, 1975, 1984, 1994 and 2022. Schedule B outlines the rules on Trust property and certain church financial matters, the appointment and dismissal of church leaders, how Special Church Meetings are to be called and convened and the regulations around church membership size. The plain English […]
A Constitution is the legal framework around which a church operates. Constitutions should reviewed and be kept up to date every few years. The constitution of the Baptist Union of Victoria was established by the Baptist Union Incorporation Act (Vic) in 1930, which follows the principles of trust premises and leadership of the local church […]
These guidelines seek to create clarity for both the pastor and church and to foster working conditions where both pastor and church are able to function efficiently, and at their best. The BUV’s experience shows that working conditions for the pastor that are fair, healthy and supportive helps to create an effective and healthy church. […]
Of all the dilemmas which confront pastors, there is only one which is more tantalising than the acceptance of a call to a new ministry. It is the timing of one’s departure from a church. Despite all the practical counsel we may offer to others in helping them understand the will of God, when it […]
What are the practices that we look for in pastors who come to Pastoral Search Advisory Group that enable them to move through the discernment process with freedom and liberty? Download the Discerning Well document which includes suggestions that will both increase the general wellbeing of pastors and are very helpful when working through a […]
To those who are called to it, pastoral leadership is a vocation of unparalleled privilege. It is also an intensely relational vocation that exposes its practitioners to some of the most painful and damaged aspects of human life and community. As none of us are fully integrated, Pastoral Leaders almost inevitably find that their own […]
The Baptist Union of Victoria has had more than 20 years of developing pastoral review processes and has facilitated hundreds of pastoral reviews in its churches. This strong history of learning is offered to Baptist Churches and pastors through the work of the Pastoral Leadership Support and Development team. Along the way we’ve discovered that […]
It is a core commitment of the Pastoral Leadership Support and Development team that a Pastor who participates in an Exit Interview is able to determine how the information they share is used. Exit interviews provide strong foundations for ongoing care of both the Pastoral Leader, their family and the church they are leaving as […]
The Baptist Union of Victoria believes that it is not healthy for pastors to be “lone rangers”. Amidst the many privileges and complexities of our vocation, we all need good people alongside us to support us spiritually, emotionally and in maintaining healthy balance and perspective. One of the most helpful ways to do this is […]
Alpha, an evangelistic resource that continues to effectively build bridges.https://www.alpha.org.au Alpha is a series of sessions run in small groups with a host and video sessions, that dive into the Christian faith, with each talk tackling a different question to spark meaningful conversations. Running in communities worldwide—whether online, in cafés, churches, universities, or homes—Alpha creates […]
Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:46-47 We know there are endless […]
Blessed are the Placemakers emphasises the importance of church-led community engagement through “placemaking” — cultivating meaningful connections with neighbors, enhancing local assets, and aligning with God’s presence in specific places. It encourages churches to embrace local spaces and people, fostering inclusive, impactful ministry that reflects Jesus’ mission. Click here to download the Blessed are the […]
The BUV has a Complaints Procedure to handle any issues raised by members of one of our churches or of the public about the conduct of leaders and/or pastors. The procedure document may be downloaded below. A Professional Standards Group oversee complaints processes within the Union. This group includes the Church Safeguarding Consultant, external professionals, […]
The Church Health and Capacity Team has produced a simple tool to assist a group of leaders to talk together about the life and mission of their church. It might be used on a planning retreat or could be extended into a congregational forum in a smaller church. Please click here to view or download […]
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]
This document is provided as a way of exploring the possibility of sharing premises with another group / church. The BUV Church Health and Capacity Building Team is available to support churches to think through this option. Please click here to view or download the resource
‘One of the features of our BUV is our cultural diversity. We see this not only in the 110+ 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 […]
All of us can provide examples of where we have had significant conversations that have changed the way we behave, think or interact with others. We might also have experiences of conversations that have been less fruitful or have been extremely hurtful either to us or to others with whom we are trying to speak. […]
All churches have volunteer and sometimes paid leaders who take on governance or operational roles such as Eldership, Diaconate, Ministry Team Leaders. It is important that there are clearly expressed expectations about these roles – authority, responsibilities, accountability, etc. If your church is looking to advertise for the following positions but aren’t sure what a […]
The BUV’s Church Health & Capacity Building Team is available to assist churches to assess and overcome the seeds of congregational decline. Please click here to view or download the resource
This partnership guide is one of three that are being prepared for churches considering partnerships. This is the level three partnership guide which is aimed at churches considering a complete merger with another church. The level two partnership guide will be aimed at churches exploring sharing staff and programs with other churches. The level one […]
This partnership guide is one of three that are being prepared for churches considering partnerships. This is the level two partnership guide which is aimed at churches exploring sharing staff and programs with other churches. The level three partnership guide is aimed at churches considering a complete merger with another church. The level one partnership […]
We recognise the value of regular check-ups in many areas of life (cars, gym, personal health, etc). These check-ups help us to see how things are going and to address minor issues before they escalate. They also encourage us to celebrate what’s going well. It is good for church leaders to review regularly how their […]
From time to time you may face the situation where a person of concern has been worshipping and been involved, or wished to worship and be involved in your church. While demonstrating genuine compassion and justice you must take steps to protect the whole church community. This process aims to ensure that all reasonable measures […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
A known offender is a person who is, or wants to be, part of your church community and who is known to have committed sexual abuse. This may be known through the individual admitting to church leadership a past sexual offense and/or leadership becoming aware of past or current convictions, allegations or investigations into sexual […]
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. Please […]
God created humankind in God’s image and entrusted creation into our care. Recent generations have not fully appreciated the fragility of creation. Rather than serving and keeping creation, we have exploited and despoiled it. Creation is groaning, crying out to God. Let’s rediscover creation care in the Bible and walk more lightly on God’s good […]
Today we focus on justice and advocacy for Refugees and Asylum Seekers. Mid last year, the UNHCR estimated that for the first time in history, the number of people that have been forcibly displaced from their homeland, stands at 80 million, and worldwide, there are over 26 million refugees. During this week, let us pray […]
Homelessness & Housing need are big social issues that sometimes seem too hard or even impossible to solve. Many people are not “roofless’ and on the street but are still classed as homeless – maybe staying with friends until the welcome wears out, living with family violence because there’s nowhere else to go, living in […]