The Unseen Reality by Eron Perry
Building by Faith in a World of Change
In our daily lives, we're constantly bombarded by what's tangible: the buzzing phone, the overflowing to-do list, the immediate challenges we can see and touch. But what if there's a deeper reality at play, one that shapes our future even when we can't fully grasp it? This "unseen reality" is a powerful thread woven through our ancient scriptures and, I believe, through the very fabric of our Anglican network of churches on the Gold Coast.
The Book of Hebrews tells us that "faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." It speaks of spiritual ancestors like Abraham, who "set out, not knowing where he was going," trusting in a promise far beyond his immediate sight. This isn't about blind optimism; it's about a deep conviction that God is at work, preparing a "better country," a reality more profound than what meets the eye.
Similarly, the prophet Isaiah calls a people consumed by empty rituals to a deeper truth: God desires justice and compassion, not just burnt offerings. He challenges them to "seek justice, rescue the oppressed," promising that even if their sins are "like scarlet, they shall be like snow." This is a call to believe in an unseen transformation, a radical shift in reality that begins with obedience and action. Luke's Gospel urges us to invest in "unfailing treasure in heaven," to be ready and watchful for a future that is not yet fully revealed.
Building an Unseen Future on the Gold Coast
This ancient wisdom resonates deeply with what we're building here on the Gold Coast. The intentional network of Anglican churches on the Gold Coast, bringing together the parishes of Robina, Palm Beach, and Burleigh Heads, is itself an act of faith in an unseen reality. We're not just combining resources; we're intentionally building a collaborative future, trusting that by working together, we can achieve something far greater than any one parish could alone. Psalm 133:1, which states, "Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" This is about seeing beyond our individual church walls to a shared, vibrant future for Anglican ministry across our region. This is a Kingdom focused mentality, not the modern idiom “what is in it for me” mentality.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the massive redevelopment being planned at Burleigh Heads. We're talking about significant change, a complete transformation of our church site. For many, this kind of change can be confronting, even unsettling. It means letting go of familiar spaces and routines. But this is precisely where the "unseen reality" comes into sharp focus. We are living by faith for a hope-filled future, a conviction that better days are ahead. We believe that through this transformation, God is preparing us for something new and powerful.
Sustaining Ministry and Planting Seeds of Hope
Our vision extends far beyond a new building at Burleigh Heads. It's about sustaining future ministry not just within one parish, but right across the entire Gold Coast Anglican Network. As a result of the redevelopment, we are hoping to fund church planting and revitalisation initiatives in new and existing communities, bringing the light and hope of Christ to places that desperately need it. And crucially, we are committed to raising up new clergy and leaders right here within our Network, in this dynamic space, equipping a new generation of leaders who can navigate change and build vibrant, faith-filled communities. … And this is just the next 5 years!
This expansive vision requires us to live with the conviction of things not seen. It demands that we, like Abraham, step out not knowing every detail of where we're going, but trusting in God who has prepared a “city for us”. This means embracing the end of one season so we can begin to embrace and move into a new season, to see the world as God does—a resplendent, vibrant, and victorious reality, waiting to be revealed through our faithful action.
Each parish within our Network will need to lean into the changes afoot, and demands will certainly be made of us all. But with the conviction of being a blessing for a hope-filled future, looking to the next generation and building a legacy that will bless our communities for decades, even centuries, our faith and hope for this future will shape our actions, especially in this time of transition.
Reverend Eron Perry
7th August 2025