The Opening of Parliament acts as an apt reminder to pray for our state and the leaders who make decisions on our behalf. Every year, the Leaders of Christian Churches South Australia (LoCCSA) and the SA Parliamentary Christian Fellowship invite politicians to a combined church service. In 2026, Baptist Churches SA & NT had the privilege of hosting the event at Flinders Street Baptist Church.
On May 7th, Premier Peter Malinauskas attended alongside other politicians, including Dennis Hood MLC and Katrine Hildyard MP. Church leaders were also present, including Rev Peter Morel (Uniting Church SA), Bishop Brad Billings (Anglican Church), and Fr Dean Marin (Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide). Mary Ackers (BCSANT), David Lang (Broadview), and Andrew Foster (Broadview) faithfully led worship.
Baptist Churches SA & NT Director of Ministries, Rev Dr Melinda Cousins, shared a message from Jeremiah 29, and the importance of holding disagreement without contempt, particularly in an increasingly polarised world.
She reminded our State leaders of South Australia’s unique history, from its inception, described as a ‘paradise of dissent’. Then, referencing Jeremiah’s call to ‘seek the flourishing of the city’, she reminded leaders to work for all, including those who have the least voice or power. It was a powerful encouragement to pursue unity without demanding uniformity, and to approach leadership as an act of service.
Rev Dr Cousins also shared the story of the founding of the University of Adelaide, where church leaders invested generously in the wider community rather than their own institution. It was a powerful illustration of seeking the flourishing of society above self-interest.
The service ended with prayers and thanks for South Australia’s elected leaders as they begin another year of making important decisions for the state.
Words by Ruth Grace
Editor, Together in Mission
