Melbourne New Church (VIC)

Welcome

Our Minister

Rev. Chris Skinner

Chris has had a lifelong association with the New Church. He was born in England, grew up in a small town where he attended the local New Church Sunday School. He was Secretary of the local church for 9 years until he moved to Australia in 1970 to marry his wife Margaret in 1971 They have 2 adult daughters one of whom is married and is grandfather to their daughter.

Whilst having a continuing association with the church in Melbourne over the years Chris had a career in the Finance Industry for nearly 30 years in Australia holding both managerial and executive positions and is a Certified Practising Accountant by qualification.

He was Lay Leader of the church in Melbourne for 6 years until 1999 when he commenced studies for ordination in addition to serving the church as Lay Minister.

Following his ordination in 2001 he has been Pastor to the Melbourne and Ballarat members and friends ever since.

His experience in the business world and the cut and thrust that this entails enables him to understand the pressures that working in today’s world puts on individuals and families. He still maintains an interest in things that are happening in the finance industry.

He believes a church should provide people with an opportunity to see God in the context of today’s busy lifestyle. He feels passionately that the teachings contained in Swedenborg’s writings provides the opportunity for people to see the Word of God in the context of each persons spiritual journey and the way they develop within themselves as they struggle with the issues of life.

Swedenborg Discussion Group

On the last Friday in each month a discussion group is held when a variety of speakers deal with Philosophical, Religious and topical issue from a Swedenborgian perspective.

House Groups

These are held in various locations around Melbourne and involve study of the Bible and Philosophical and Theological topics. For specific details contact the Minister.

Study Courses

Short courses are held both on, Biblical, Philosophical and Theological Topics at intervals during the year. These medium level courses run from anything between 4 and 8 sessions usually fortnightly. For specific information contact the Minister or email for a current issue of the newsletter and this will be sent to you.

Swedenborg Lending Library

A good range of books are available for lending purposes or purchase and if you are interested please contact Chris Skinner on 9888 2850, for catalogues, brochures and price lists.

Hire of Hall

We have a well equipped and spacious hall with adjoining modern kitchen, which is available for hire at reasonable rates.
For further information please contact our Secretary Alan Teed.