Fifty years ago, tonight, I knelt alongside my colleagues as elders of the Federal Conference of Churches of Christ in Australia stepped forward. They laid hands upon us, ordaining us as ministers. This sacred moment marked the climax of four years of rigorous study, formation, and discernment within our live-in community.
I honed my skills in Victoria as a trainee minister in two suburban churches and one rural church. Following graduation and ordination, I served congregations across South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, and Western Australia. In retirement, I remain actively engaged in ministry.
Today’s moment will pass with little fanfare, just a quiet toast with close friends during an impromptu weekend retreat. In Churches of Christ, we embrace mutual ministry and the priesthood of all believers. Our history, while celebrating entrepreneurial, pastoral, and innovative leadership, shuns the notion of a clergy class that separates the shepherd from the flock.
Some have remarked that our baptism is our ordination.
Yet today feels special—it is a thin moment. I am remembering the faces of countless individuals, young and old, from all walks of life, with whom I have shared significant moments of deep engagement in life’s struggles and opportunities. Each face is unique, each story distinct. Many of them are now beyond the veil, part of that great cloud of witnesses.
Fifty years ago, kneeling on that platform, I recall asking myself in trepidation, “What have I done? What now?”
Fifty years on, today, I savour the same question with gratitude, awe and a remaining reserve of expectancy.
Wondering Pilgrim 
Thank you and congratulations on your half century, Dennis. I remember you as teacher, minister and friend.
Starting with your emphasis on Celtic life and practice you opened to me a new history and way of shaping the tasks of being Christian, thank you.
I am recovering from travelling indispositions in the Royal Brisbane Hospital at the moment. I heard one of the doctors say to a colleague ‘we’ll get him better’.
Best wishes to Jenny, Dennis and to our monthly brethren.
Denis
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