Our Story

The Branches began as a church plant from Tea Tree Gully Uniting with a team

led by

Ian Clarkson and commissioned in February 1992.

Its vision and vitality was inspired by a 12 month study of Acts.

Initially without any formal association with the UCA, later that year, membership of

Presbytery was granted to the Branches as a model of a “new model congregation”

within the UCA.

“Branches” denotes congregational outgrowth; a fresh twig of church, as distinct from

a break away.

Its primary vision was to be a church in simplicity; what was often referred to as a

“haven of love and a beacon of truth”. Its life and structure was to be functional

and organic. Its mission occurs

rimarily in the daily lives of members through their relationships and responsibilities.

The mostcommon adjective heard by attendees in the early days to describe the Branches

was “real”. The so-called distinctives give an idea of the development of the congregation’s

identity,purpose and mission.

Branches has never owned corporate property but has met in rented buildings,

with smaller meetings in members’ residences. In the 17 years of its existence,

setting up for Sundayservice has never been a burden, but an experience of fellowship.

While many ideas would describe its vision, Christomorphia has emerged and stayed.

Expressing the truth of Galatians 4:19, it refers to the purpose of Christ to form His life

and character in thelives of His people, the body of Christ.

Branches also ministers in the Bowden-Brompton area and is linked wit a fellowship

at Mt Barker. It is also connected through the ministry of the Word with churches

across South Australia through Hope Mission Network and ACC congregations.

The purpose of the Branches is to be exactly what the Lord wants it to be: in its

lifestyle, service and character. Governance is simple, accessible and workable.

A quarterly congregational meeting is held which ensures accountability and

transparency.

An Oversight functions with its members comprised of those who desire to help

with the care, protection and strengthening of the church.

Mission results in the lives of members in the walk of their daily lives – the church scattered -

who are nourished and strengthened by regularly meeting together.

[Six days ministries]

Our Pastors

Ian Clarkson	Ian Clarkson: Superintendent Pastor Field Ministry Ian Clarkson works as a Teacher and Evangelist. Currently building up a number of congregations, which have, or are developing, leadership (Ministry Teams) across regional, country South Australia and Adelaide. Besides providing a superintending oversight of Branches Churches. Ian researches, speaks and writes on current subjects, which are offered also through ACC Discipleship Commission and Hope Mission Network.
Jamie Mattner	Jamie Mattner: Pastor Jamie Mattner is the pastor and leader of the Branches congregation. His pastoral call was acknowledged some eight years ago initially apprenticed within the Branches his training has been in the field of the work. Jamie worked bivocationally as a physician in a local clinic and as a pastor in the church. The unity of leadership is a blessing and strength of the Branches allowing energy and creativity. A gifted pastor, Jamie is leading the church in a whole-member development of congregations, capacity’s to live Christianity in daily life.
Chris and Gloria Klemm	Chris and Gloria Klemm: Lighthouse Church, Mount Barker, Oversight
	Branches Churches Oversight Team: Barratt, Dianne and Jim Benke, John and Rose Clarkson, Ian and Rosemary Driver, Maureen Fisher, Steven and Kathryn Mattner, Jamie Tabe, Christine