Reverend Andrea McDougall - Private Member’s Statement

Tuesday 13 May 2025

S.E. ANDREWS (Gibson) (15:48): I rise today to recognise the new reverend, Reverend Andrea McDougall, at St Jude's church in Brighton. It was an absolute honour to speak at her commissioning just a few weeks ago. Reverend Andrea comes to St Jude's with a heart for service, commitment and a vision for how St Jude's can continue to be a light in our community. But of course the occasion was not just about Andrea, it was about our whole community, the people of St Jude's.

In particular, I acknowledge and give thanks for the extraordinary social impact of St Jude's outreach programs. Whether it has been through support for the vulnerable, care for the lonely, engagement with young people or the many unseen acts of kindness that happen daily, the parish of St Jude's has made and continues to make a real difference in people's lives.

In a world that can so often feel fragmented and isolating, St Jude's has been a place of belonging, a shelter of hope, and I know that this is a community that will walk alongside Reverend McDougall, support her and challenge her as she leads them in their parish service. Welcome, Andrea.