Giving Thanks for Those Preparing to Serve

Romans 10:15b — “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news…”

In today’s edition of the Vic-Tas District eNews (29 April 2026), you’ll have seen a joyous report concerning the recent graduations of Erin Grainger and Pr. Sue Westhorp – congratulations Erin and Pr. Sue!

It is wonderful to acknowledge that theological study is not merely academic advancement; it is part of the church’s prayerful discernment of how God provides servants for his people and mission. In a heartening recent update from ALC we can give thanks for:

• 44 students currently enrolled in Theology and Ministry courses at ALC in Semester 1, 2026 (19 females and 25 males).
• Of these, 12 are discerning the General Ministry Pastor pathway, and 15 are engaged in Specific Ministry Pastor opportunities.
• There are also 26 participants in LEA’s Leadership Development Program completing an ALC unit in Educational Theology, plus 11 Bachelor of Counselling students.
• Within the Vic/Tas District, several people are already connected with SMP pathways, and one person is listed as discerning pastoral ministry.

What a cause for thanksgiving! In a time when the church is acutely conscious of the need for ministry workers, God is still stirring hearts toward study, discernment, formation, and service.

Behind every enrolment number is a person, a story, a congregation, and a possible call of God that deserves prayerful attention. Perhaps God is ‘tapping you on the shoulder’?

A new and encouraging local example: SMP formation in practice

At Horsham, Adam Borgas, a licensed SMP Candidate, is serving in a structured ministry-training arrangement connected with Holy Trinity Horsham and the Dimboola–Natimuk Parish. Pr Hans Peethala is providing close face-to-face oversight and mentoring for Adam as he completes field work along with his SMP study program at ALC.

• The arrangement is providing a clear framework for shared ministry for the remainder of 2026.
• Adam’s service is 25 hours per week, with Horsham his primary ministry base and the Dimboola-Natimuk parish as appreciative partners and recipients of his ministry.
• Oversight, supervision, workload safeguards, local pastoral needs, and careful formal review points are all built into the arrangement so that Adam is well supported.

Please pray for Adam and all those supporting him, including through the office of Bishop as we receive this wonderful example of God helping the LCANZ respond faithfully and creatively to ministry need while also caring for the formation and wellbeing of the person being prepared.