Rev Mark Hillis, currently in placement with the Toronto congregation in the NSW Hunter Valley, was appointed at the March Standing Committee Meeting.

The ASC was told Rev Hillis Mark has tertiary qualifications in education, with a particular emphasis in religious education and is expected to complete his PhD at the University of Newcastle this year.

A report presented to ASC members also highlighted Rev Hillis’ significant practical experience in Christian Education including 12 years as the Regional Education Officer for the NSW Synod Board of Education before his current congregational placement.

“He has a great deal of experience in developing and delivering educational programs and is well regarded by colleagues for his organisational skills, ability to strategise and also original thinking,” the report said.

“Mark writes well and has a proven ability in communicating in a number of different spheres and wide range of age groups. Mark is well read and has a clear understanding of the theory of Christian Education and its contribution to the life of the church in the present and into the future.”

The report described Rev Hillis as a team player, who was deeply committed to the Uniting Church.

“The national staff person with responsibility for Christian Education will have to be a person who has capacity to understand the materials that are presently supported by the UCA and the international relationships that are part of these models. Mark has been involved in field testing and promoting the Disciples program and is well versed in the theory and practice of Seasons of the Spirit. Mark is very highly regarded in international Religious Education circles and has been invited to deliver papers three times in the last year to international conferences.”

Rev Hillis will commence his appointment with the National Assembly on July 1.