We’ve long known
And, when our vision is clear, our values are shared and our connection to purpose is strong, we’re capable of achieving great things. Beyond sitting at the heart of our Church’s name, ‘uniting’ people and communities is central to who we are and the work we do. It’s also the driving motivation behind this book. Recently, we took time to reflect upon our changing world, the Church’s mission priorities and importantly, our role and place within them. We thought deeply about why we exist, our aspirations for the future and how the Office of the Synod and its entities can best work together to strengthen our collective impact. This book shares those ideas and is designed to unite us in our endeavours. We hope it helps to provide common understanding around the work we all do and how each and every one of us can contribute to building this next chapter in our shared story. We encourage you to use this as a source of inspiration and equally as a guide as we move forward into the future knowing ‘We are better together.’
2 BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
Our guiding philosophy
You’ll hear us regularly refer to our guiding philosophy ‘We are better together’. But it’s more than something we simply say, it’s a way of being that guides us every day and in everything we do.
3
Contents
01 Who is the offic 02 why we exist 03 what we stand 04 how we connec 05 our shared stor 16
4 BETTER TOGETHER
ce of the synod 32
51
26
Throughout this book you’ll find space to note down your own thoughts and ideas around how we can best build on our identity. Reflection is a powerful practice and a valuable tool as we seek to move forward with intention and a greater awareness of who we are, what we stand for and how we can work together to make a difference. OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
for ct ry
06
5
01 who is the office of the synod?
6 BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
7
Uniting Church entities and enterprises are as diverse as the communities they serve.
8 BETTER TOGETHER
The depth and diversity of our ecosystem reminds us that we’re part of something bigger. OFFICE OF THE SYNOD 9
At the Office ff off the Synod, y we employy more than 400 people, but we’re more than an employer.
We’re enablers. When it comes to serving communities and making a difference, rarely do minds turn to business activities and functions. But working for good, requires good governance. And that’s exactly what we’re here to do. Simply put, the Office of the Synod is an entity of the Uniting Church, responsible for providing operational expertise, and centralised business and support functions. In doing so, we enable our congregations and presbyteries, agencies and entities to do what they do best - strengthen the communities they serve. It’s why, when referring to our work, rather than talking about governance, legislation, business planning or regulatory frameworks alone, we prefer to think of ourselves as being in the business of supporting those who support others.
10 BETTER TOGETHER
Reggardless off our Regardless level off contact, level we’re all connected
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
The majority of those we employ are part of one of our enterprises, be it residential colleges, community venues or early learning and childcare.
11
12 BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
13
14 BETTER TOGETHER
And we are better together when each other’s perspectives are seen, known and understood.
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD 15
Why we exist
16 BETTER TOGETHER
Clearly articulating why we do, what we do, reminds us that our work, regardless of the role we play, matters.
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
02
17
We exist to intentionally make a meaningful difference to others.
18 BETTER TOGETHER
By contributing our individual expertise each one of us makes our communities a better place.
We bring our purpose to life by: Ensuring it manifests in our ways of working, every day
•
Acting intentionally
•
Keeping the big picture front of mind
•
Thinking about and finding new ways to make a difference and working together to deliver
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
•
19
So, while our days can look like this, our purpose affirms that everything we do, is actually about...
Educating early learners Facilities support
WHS + compliance Strategy
20 BETTER TOGETHER
Payroll Marketing + comms
Human resources
...this.
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
21
We want those who join us to find meaning and reward - to contribute and connect authentically; to love what they do. Taking time to think more deeply about our work, and why it’s important, is a great way to get to the heart of what motivates, drives and inspires us to fulfill our purpose.
Some questions to get you started... What do you love about your role? And, why? Why is your work important to you? What choices led you here? What type of a difference would you like to see in the world? What type of a difference would you like to make in the world?
22 BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
23
OUR Vision 24 BETTER TOGETHER
Our vision brings clarity to the ultimate goal we seek to achieve. It is brought to life through our strategy and anchored around our purpose.
A flourishing future for Church and community.
Our vision for the Office of the Synod, supports and is strategically aligned to the vision of our Church: Shared Life. Flourishing Communities. OFFICE OF THE SYNOD 25
03 What we stand for 26 BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
Our foundational principles are core to who we are. They guide our decisions, our actions and our interactions and articulate the views we hold deeply. We turn to these principles to help frame our thinking when making decisions, solving problems and generating new ideas.
27
These principles create common understanding as to what’s important. They allow our people to act with conviction and an element of autonomy.
Our princi We believe...
In the human need for connection, acceptance and trusted relationships
In cooperating to make the world a better place
In the inherent value of all people
28 BETTER TOGETHER
iples That communities are strengthened when everyone is supported
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
That by working together we can achieve great things
29
Your beliefs become your thoughts, Your thoughts become your words, Your words become your actions, Your actions become your habits, Your habits become your values, Your values become your destiny.
Mahatma Gandhi 30 BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
31
04 How we
32 BETTER TOGETHER
connect Our values guide our interactions and shape how we build our relationships. They are meaningful and powerful when they show-up in everything we do.
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD 33
OUR VALUES Be gracious
01
Explore beyond your assumptions Contribute confidently
03
Actively seek solutions Embrace an abundant future
34 BETTER TOGETHER
02
04
05
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
35
Be gracious When we are gracious we work with authenticity and compassion to build trusted relationships. We show respect and we value each other’s differences and contributions. We demonstrate genuine care for each other’s wellbeing and a generosity of spirit in all our interactions.
01
How this looks and ffeels when wwe ddemonstrate wh st t thi this in our work... •
• • • • • •
Showing appreciation for others Offering to help when you see it is needed Making time to talk things through Doing what you said you would Being present Optimising meetings for effectiveness
36 BETTER TOGETHER
• •
• •
Demonstrating personal integrity Leading by example Genuinely recognising the achievements and contributions of others Being consistent, available and providing guidance Building trust through our consistency, our vulnerability and our actions
Thank you! Are you ok? How can I help? I appreciate your perspective Do you have time?
•
Valued
•
Included
•
Understood
•
Respected
•
Cared for
Ignoring others or dismissing others’ ideas and inputs Not passing on relevant information Working in silos Not valuing others’ time OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
Being disrespectful
37
02
Explore beyond your assumptions While we are experts in what we do, we recognise that we must be curious to seek new perspectives that take us out of our comfort zone to a place of greater understanding. When we do this we remove bias, we engage others, we see opportunities, we problem solve and are able to take considered and bold action to have the best impact.
How this looks and feels when we demonstrate this in our work... • • • • • •
Asking questions for clarity without making assumptions Listening to understand Consulting with others Working outside your comfort zone Proactively seeking feedback
• •
•
•
38 BETTER TOGETHER
Encouraging the input, ideas and contributions of others Identifying and challenging bias and misperceptions Collaborating across teams and creating value-adding connections Recognising opportunities to develop the capabilities of others Being open and responsive to feedback
Can you please explain... I’m not sure I understand... I’ve noticed you have a different experience; can we talk about that? This is not my area of expertise Would you please help me?
•
Appreciated
•
Informed
•
Adding value
•
Recognised
•
Satisfied
Assuming we have all the answers Fixed and unchanging perspectives Expressing bias Being resistant to change
Over collaborating
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
Avoiding those who have a difference of opinion
39
Contribute confidently We are accountable for our work, the way we work and for the impact we have on others. We are not afraid to do great work and recognise the great work and contributions of others.
03
We honour our commitments, we work consistently well and we share our ideas and opinions with confidence and without fear of reprisal.
How this looks and feels when we demonstrate this in our work... • • • • • • •
Having clarity of expectations and outcomes Taking ownership of your actions Holding each other to account to uphold quality and standards Sharing your expertise and experience by speaking up Recognising and celebrating the great work of others Doing what you said you would
40 BETTER TOGETHER
•
• • •
Creating an environment where our people feel safe to contribute Proactively addressing issues to find solutions without blame Setting the expectations for ways of working together Providing encouragement Coaching and developing others
Who can help us find a way forward? This is changing and we have an opportunity to do things better Well done, that is a wonderful achievement I have some ideas, let’s talk about it
•
Empowered
•
Recognised
•
Respected
•
Heard
•
Confident
Gossiping, complaining, making excuses. Not seeking to understand Taking on too much Dismissing success
Blaming others
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
Over promising and under delivering
41
Living by our values, is how we bring our guiding philosophy to life and deliver value to our communities.
42 BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
“A value is a way of being or believing that we hold most important. Living into our values means that we do more than profess our values. We practice them. We walk our talk - we are clear about what we believe and hold important, and we take care that our intentions, words, thoughts and behaviours align with those beliefs.” - Brene Brown
43
Actively seek solutions We identify the roadblocks to our success in our everyday work. We promptly address issues and focus on win/win outcomes. We focus on solutions and ways to work more effectively together.
04
We learn from our mistakes and come up with better ways to evolve our valuable services and contributions.
How this looks and ffeels when we demonstrate this in our work...
• • • • • • •
Seeking clarity to define the problem we are trying to solve Participating in meetings and openly sharing your thoughts Asking for and providing constructive feedback Raising concerns and addressing issues as they happen Learning about those we support and work with, and their needs Learning from our past to improve the future Working together to find the best solutions
44 BETTER TOGETHER
•
Enabling collaboration
•
Encouraging innovation, brainstorming and planning
•
Removing barriers to performance for team members
•
Debriefing projects or tasks to find better ways
•
Proactively seeking new and different ways to work towards business outcomes
•
Frequent and continuous conversations to align on our expectations
Can you help me understand … How am I / we going? What can we do better? What can we learn from this? Let’s explore that further
•
Clear and focused
•
Competent and accomplished
•
Connected to others and outcomes
•
Pretending issues don’t exist / ignoring problems Accepting the status quo
Successful Waiting for others to act Focusing on the issue and not the solution OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
Creating additional problems where they don’t exist
45
Embrace an abundant future We understand our role and our contribution to the broader vision and purpose of the Queensland Synod and the Office of the Synod. We strive to make a difference to our team, the Office of the Synod, and those we serve by focusing on what’s possible. We acknowledge and celebrate our success and the impact we have in our communities.
05
Together we are ensuring the sustainability and impact of our work.
How this looks and feels when we demonstrate this in our work...
• • • • • •
Taking the time to understand how we contribute and add value Genuinely connecting with people we interact with Exploring what’s possible Giving thanks for the good things Catching people doing the right things Sharing positive feedback from and with those we support
46 BETTER TOGETHER
•
Clearly articulating and communicating a clear vision of the future
•
Setting expectations for performance and behaviours
•
Providing clarity of structure and roles for effective contribution
•
Communicating to engage, inspire, inform and build confidence
•
Explaining the ‘why’ behind decisions and actions
•
Celebrating successes
Well done, great job The positive impact of … has been … This is where we are headed … This is important for us to know and understand I’d like to update you on our progress
•
Optimistic
•
Inspired
•
Included
•
Recognised
•
Informed
Having a short term focus Being overwhelmed Being directionless Taking credit for the work of others OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
Only thinking about the outcomes not the people
47
Putting our values into practice... We invite you to use this space to reflect on how we can best live our values.
Some questions to get you started... What values really resonate with me? Why? How will I choose to demonstrate these in my daily work? And my relationships?
Don’t be afraid to ‘think small’, as well as, ‘thinking big’! What’s important to you, is important to us We encourage you to share your ideas with your peers and importantly, your leaders. Understanding your perspective and knowing how they can best support you is central to being ‘better together’.
48 BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD
49
50 BETTER TOGETHER
05 Our shared story Proud to play a part, proud to be part of. Writing our next chapter, together. OFFICE OF THE SYNOD 51
Our world is changin and our church is t 52 BETTER TOGETHER
d ng
The Uniting Church in Australia is committed to not only serving and enriching communities, but creating meaningful and lasting change. That means, as the needs of its communities evolve and the world transforms, it must too. Our church’s history runs deep and its impact - be it educating young people, providing access to health services and support, or caring for those in need - spans far. As we collectively move into this next chapter, with a commitment to writing it together, we know that making a meaningful difference today will require an equally strong commitment to doing things differently tomorrow. A commitment to re-thinking our thinking. A commitment to connecting and re-connecting. And a shared commitment to working together for greater good.
too.
Our changing church reaffirms our purpose and the role, we at the Office of the Synod, play too
OFFICE OF THE SYNOD 53
Communities thrive when everyone is thriving. Why? Because we are all interconnected.
54 BETTER TOGETHER
“The way God designed our bodies is a model for understanding our lives together as a church: every part dependent on every other part…If one part hurts, every other part is involved in the hurt, and in the healing. If one part flourishes, every other part enters into the exuberance.”
For us, at the Uniting Church, 1 Corinthians 12:25-26 brings into view this very sentiment by reminding us that everyone benefits from the gifts and contributions of each other. And whether it’s this passage - or another unique to country, culture or our First Nations people - that resonates, we know that genuine connection is the common thread and driver of the moments that matter.
This thinking sits at the heart of our purpose, and highlights the importance of our philosophy
We are better together. always OFFICE OF THE SYNOD 55
We affirm our eagerness to uphold basic Christian values and principles, such as the importance of every human being, the need for integrity in public life, the proclamation of truth and justice, the rights for each citizen to participate in decision-making in the community, religious liberty and personal dignity, and a concern for the welfare of the whole human race. Uniting Church in Australia, Statement to the Nation