Reflecting on a recent parliamentary reception with King Charles, the Rev. Charissa Suli, President of the Uniting Church, emphasised two intersecting truths: the ongoing impact of colonisation on First Peoples and the need to embrace Indigenous wisdom. Senator Lidia Thorpe’s statement, “This is not your land!” highlighted the importance of truth-telling in acknowledging Aboriginal sovereignty, while Charles urged learning from Indigenous stewardship.
For the Uniting Church, this means honouring its covenant with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress and committing to truth, respect and justice. This relationship with First Nations is not a one-time commitment but an active, ongoing process. Charles’ words about stewardship extend beyond environmental care to include responsible use of power and influence. The church’s role is to ensure future generations inherit a legacy of justice, respect, and love.
Learning from Indigenous wisdom requires humility, a willingness to listen, and the recognition that Indigenous communities hold valuable insights on sustainability, spirituality and justice. Inspired by the Uluru Statement, the president called on the church and society to support Indigenous self-determination, not just through words but through meaningful action. Reconciliation demands sacrifice, difficult conversations and confronting colonial-settler biases.
Following Christ’s teachings means standing with marginalised communities and working to dismantle systems of oppression. The church’s covenant must be reflected in its worship and actions, embodying a commitment to justice, love and respect for First Nations and their connection to the land.
