Rev Fran Barber Appointed Ministry Formation Coordinator
Rev Fran Barber has been appointed as the Ministry Formation Coordinator with Pilgrim Theological College, Synod of Victoria and Tasmania. Fran will be responsible for implementing formation programs for candidates for ordained ministries of the UCA (Phase 2), and ordained ministers in their first placement within the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania (Phase 3).
Duncan Macleod, Executive Director eLM, says, “Fran has already demonstrated creativity, forward-thinking and capacity for organising and inspiring people in their ministry. Her appointment comes at a critical time for the Uniting Church. The Uniting Church Victoria & Tasmania in 2025 is broadening involvement of people in the shape of ministry formation and support of candidates. Work is soon to start on forming National Network for Theology, Formation and Leadership. Fran’s contribution in these spaces is already highly valued across the Uniting Church.”
Fran is in her seventh year as Coordinator of Continuing Education and Leadership Development. Her new role, beginning January 1, 2025, will include her current responsibilities for the Orientation to Ministry Practice for new ministers, and field education for candidates. In 2025, other parts of the Continuing Education and Leadership Development role will be carried by a range of part-time staff.
Fran has a rich background in ministry settings as a Uniting Church minister, including as Minister with North Essendon Uniting Church, and Chaplain with Methodist Ladies College. She is a member of the UCA Fundamentals of Transition Ministry education team. Fran co-hosts the popular By The Well lectionary podcast.
Fran’s own continuing education has included a Diploma in Education through Australian Catholic University, a Certificate in Ecumenics from University of Geneva and Ecumenical Institute Bossey, WCC, and a Graduate Certificate in Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies from Deakin University. A wide reader, Fran loves to explore the art and practice of preaching, engagement in public theology, and discover more about church history.