Leichhardt Uniting Church

Who runs Epworth House?

Epworth House is run by the Epworth House Management Committee and overseen by the Epworth House Manager. Two Resident Assistants are selected yearly to help keep residents informed about House related matters as well as actively listen to residents about their needs, making sure they are communicated clearly with the Epworth House Committee. The committee consists of the ministers and members of the Leichhardt Uniting Church congregation.

How long can I live at Epworth House?

There is no restriction in how long a resident may stay in the Epworth House community, as long as they can still fulfil the requirements of the house.

What is the Uniting Church in Australia? And what are it’s beliefs?

The Uniting Church in Australia Website can answer this best. To understand the theology and mission of the Uniting Church in Australia, it is recommended that you read the Basis of Union.

What is the application process?

For the application process, click here.

Who can apply?

Anyone who is working and/or will be studying at a Tertiary institution (or equivalent) who has an understaning that, as residents, that a little of their time and energy needs to go to contributing to the community of Epworth House and Leichhardt Uniting Church

I’m moving out of home for the first time, can I still apply?

Yes! Epworth House first began to help students who were moving away from home. Many residents of the Epworth House are in this situation. Epworth House is a great place to settle into a new stage of life while having access to the supportive Leichhardt Uniting Church community.

Is there an age limit?

There is no formal age limit. However, those under 18 will need to get parental permission. Most of the participants are aged from 18 to 30. If you are considering applying and over 25 years of age, please consider whether you will be able to relate with other younger participants as you maybe in a different stage of life.

I am not currently involved with the Uniting Church in Australia, can I still apply?

Epworth House has accommodated many people of varying beliefs and faiths. Many people who are associated with different denominations have participated in the house community. Individuals who don’t feel they can label themselves as Christian but wish to explore the Christian faith can also apply. It is requested that Epworth House members are willing to participate in the life of the House and Leichhardt Uniting Church community. It is absolutely essential that respect and tolerance is shown when communicating with fellow housemates about their beliefs and that there is some understanding and respect for the beliefs of the Uniting Church in Australia.

When can I move in?

Moving dates are flexible, and will be decided by the manager and Epworth House management.

What happens when I move in?

When moving in you will meet your new housemates and learn about the living arrangements about the use of rooms, kitchen space and general house rules.

What happens at the end of the year?

Whether you are choosing to leave Epworth House at the end of the year or stay on through the holiday period you just need to communicate with your Epworth House Manager so they can help make arrengements for you.

What is the Rent?

For information regarding rent costs for 2023, please contact the House Manager (manager@epworthhouse.org.au).

What other living expenses will there be?

Utilities (water, electricity, gas, phone, internet) and communal items (such as toilet paper) are included in your weekly rent. Housemates are asked to be good stewards of communal resources and to be considerate of their impact on others and the environment. This includes being responsible in turning off lights/fans/dripping taps/ TV etc that are not in use.

What are my day-to-day expectations?

A part of what makes Epworth House a special inviting space to live is the time residents take talk together and potentially form supportive freindships.

Residents will be expected to work with your housemates to complete basic living duties such as cooking, cleaning, shopping and communicating with the manager if any maintenance is needed in the house.

What kind of commitments are expected?

Residents are expected, to take a relatively small amount of time out their schedules to participate in some of the activities provided at Epworth House and the wider Leichhardt Uniting Church community. Previous members have been active in areas of social justice, inspiring student leadership workshops or attending services and suppers.

Leichhardt Uniting Church is a growing community and is always excited to celebrate the creative talents that people bring with them. We don’t expect you to participate in every activity, but would encourage you to participate as much as possible.

What is a Safe Place and Affirming Congregation?

As a Safe Place and an Affirming Congregation, Leichhardt Uniting Church is aware of the issues concerning LGBTIQ+ civil rights within the Church. LUC therefore works towards the full acceptance and ministry of LGBTIQ+ people within the Family of God. In doing so, we invite all in the Body of Christ to journey with us in moving beyond the deadlocked fight over same-sex relationships. And, as a "graced people" to join us in choosing humility over hostility, encouraging all into becoming a reconciled people with God and one another. You can Click here for more information on issues around LGBTIQ+ people and the Uniting Church, and here for more information on the Uniting Church's Safe Church policy.

Am I expected to attend church?

Residents definitely encouraged to attend church when they are able. Leichhardt Uniting Church weekly Sunday worship is on at 10am and 6:30pm. Many of the Leichhardt Uniting Church congregation are young people in their 20s and 30s and the services are generally tailored towards the younger demographic. Many of the Epworth House residents attend the evening service which is followed by supper.

I have a question that isn’t answered here. What do I do?

For any additional questions or information, please contact the Epworth House Manager at epworth@leichhardtuniting.org.au and they will respond to you as soon as possible.