Who We Are

Rev. Dr Rod Benson serves as Minister at North Rocks Community Church, where he is passionate about helping people grow as lifelong followers of Jesus and active participants in the mission of God. 

With more than thirty years of experience in pastoral ministry, theological education, preaching, and community leadership, Rod seeks to make the Christian faith both intellectually engaging and deeply practical for everyday life.

Alongside his ministry at North Rocks, Rod serves as General Secretary of the New South Wales Ecumenical Council, working with churches from many Christian traditions to strengthen Christian unity and to promote justice, peace, and reconciliation. 

Rod holds postgraduate qualifications in theology, ethics, and creative writing, and is a widely published author whose interests include spirituality, ethics, history, and the relationship between faith and culture.

Away from his formal ministry, Rod enjoys reading, gardening, cooking for family and friends, walking in nature, and exploring great literature. He values hospitality, lifelong learning, and creating spaces where people can ask honest questions and discover God’s calling for their lives.

Rod’s preaching combines biblical and theological depth with practical application, encouraging people to love God wholeheartedly, care for their neighbours, and participate in God’s renewing work in the world. He and the congregation warmly invite you to join us as we worship together, grow in faith, build genuine community, and share the hope of Jesus Christ with our local neighbourhood.

Our Mission Statement

“Transforming lives, transforming communities”

Our Vision:

"Revive" 

"Restore" 

"Reach Out" 

NRCC Team Ministry

At NRCC, we believe ministry is not meant to be carried by one person alone. Jesus called His disciples to follow Him, grow together, and serve side by side. He trained them in community and sent them out in pairs and teams, showing that God’s work is strengthened through unity, shared responsibility, and mutual encouragement.

This same pattern continued in the early Church. As the church grew, leaders were appointed to serve in different areas of ministry so that the needs of the people could be met faithfully and effectively. In Acts 6:1–7, we see a clear example of the church raising up capable and Spirit-filled people to take responsibility in practical and spiritual service. This reminds us that every role in the body of Christ matters, and every gift can be used for God’s glory.

At NRCC, we are thankful that God continues to raise up men and women with willing hearts, servant spirits, and a desire to build His Kingdom. Team ministry is an important part of our church life because it reflects both the example of Christ and the design of the Church as one body with many members. No one has to do everything, but everyone can do something.

We believe each person has been given unique gifts, abilities, and experiences by God. Some are called to lead, some to encourage, some to teach, some to pray, some to serve behind the scenes, and some to care for practical needs. When these gifts are offered to the Lord and used together, the church grows stronger, healthier, and more effective in its witness.

Being part of a ministry team is also a wonderful way to grow spiritually. As we serve alongside one another, we learn humility, faithfulness, teamwork, and dependence on God. Ministry is not only about meeting needs; it is also about becoming more like Christ as we serve His people with love and dedication.

There are many ways to be involved in the ministry of NRCC. Whether you have a heart for worship, teaching, welcoming people, prayer, children’s ministry, outreach, administration, media, or practical support, there is a place for you to serve. We encourage every member of the church family to prayerfully consider how God may be leading them to participate.

If you would like to join a ministry team, learn more about areas of service, or speak with someone about using your gifts in the church, please feel free to contact one of our team leaders. We would be delighted to help you find a place where you can serve joyfully and meaningfully in the life of NRCC.