An update from VAT
This update was originally sent to members and friends of VAT on 20 January 2026.
An update from VAT
Dear members and friends,
We were saddened to learn the new that the Diocese has decided to close The Melbourne Anglican. We take this opportunity to share this news with you.
A copy of the letter from the Interim CEO of the Diocese is available here. The closure has come about because of “the financial realities currently facing the Diocese”, he stated.
Dr Muriel Porter has written a helpful article (which you can find below) addressing, amongst other things, the lack of consultation with synod members.
You may also have now received a message from The Revd Kirsty Brown, Chair of the Archbishop in Council Finance Committee with an invitation
to share with you the 2026 Diocesan budget that was recently approved by Archbishop in Council. The budget paper will be sent to you on 28 January 2026 and there will be an optional Budget Briefing on Wednesday 11 February online at 5.30pm. If you would like to attend, please register here. If you have any queries prior to the information session, please feel free to send them through to me at kjbrown@melbourneanglican.org.au and we will attempt to respond to them at the session.
Multi-faith Vigil, Thursday 22nd January, 11.15am
On the National Day of Mourning for the Bondi terror attack, Thursday 22 January at 11.15am, St Paul’s Cathedral is hosting heads of Christian churches, together with leaders of the Jewish and Muslim communities to mourn the victims and pray for peace in our national and world. All are welcome. You can find more details here.
Ordination of Deacons, Saturday 7th February, 10am
Join this significant event at St Paul’s Cathedral as The Most Revd Dr Ric Thorpe, Archbishop of Melbourne, ordains deacons to serve in the Diocese of Melbourne.
Welcome to Archbishop Ric, Tuesday 10th March, 3pm
We ask you to save the date for our welcome function for Archbishop Ric on Tuesday 10 March 2026, 3pm at St George’s Malvern. More details to come. Spread the word!
Lenten Quiet Day with Dr Paula Gooder, Saturday 14th March
We invite you to register for a Lenten Quiet Day Dr Paula Gooder (Canon Chancellor, St Paul’s Cathedral, London) at the Chapel of Trinity College Melbourne. You can find more details and book free tickets here.
Yours in Christ,
Michael Shand AM KC
President
Victorian Anglicans Together