Outreach Mission

Beginning early in 2018, we partnered with the NSW District of the Lutheran Church of Australia to undertake an outreach mission program to reach the rapidly expanding community surrounding our church. During 2018 and 2019 we employed Pastor Ian Rentsch on a part-time basis to jointly achieve the following outcomes:

• Establish a nourishing relationship with students and staff at the nearby University of Canberra.
• Develop and present a series of studies and faith exploration seminars at Holy Cross to assist members and newcomers with issues of faith.
• Establish outreach opportunities to minister to new residents in our immediate area of Belconnen. The community around us is growing rapidly with the recent and ongoing construction of high-rise apartment blocks within walking distance.

Following the departure of Pastor Hans Peethala at the end of 2019, resources are not available to pursue these activities to the same extent during the following couple of years. Further planning work, in particular how we might build relationships with the residents of the many high rise apartments now in our neighbourhood has continued.

Our new electronic signage and participation in 2024 Floiade Community Gardens program are expected to arouse some curiosity in the community and hopefully leading to fostering relationships with our neighbours.

Many people in the  community may be experiencing some strong emotions and persistent questions that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the surface. Some will be feeling that the foundations of their life are shaky. The Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand has produced a video for this season of uncertainty and anxiety, especially for people who might be thinking more deeply about life, God and the things that matter. Watch the video to learn about  the comfort and assurance we have in the presence and promises of God. The other videos referred to may be found on the About Us page.