Calls to stop City On A Hill church from using Phoenix Park community centre in Malvern East

The church at the centre of the Andrew Thorburn saga could be kicked out of a council-owned community centre over “deeply concerning” sermons.

Stonnington council still hasn’t acted on controversial City On A Hill church at the centre of the Andrew Thorburn storm.

The church, which holds anti-gay and anti-abortion stances, continues to use the council-owned Phoenix Park community centre in Malvern East for its services.

The council inaction comes two months on from the outcry that forced church chairman Mr Thorburn to quit his new job as Essendon footy club chief executive after just one day.

Ratepayers Victoria said Stonnington had abandoned both its LGBTQIA+ residents and principles by letting the church stay.

Andrew Thorburn quit his Essendon job after one day.

Ratepayers Victoria spokesman and Stonnington resident Dean Hurlston said the council had to end the City On A Hill tenancy.

Religious freedom was important, he said, but the use of a council asset should be driven by policies of inclusion.

“The sermons and words preached by City on a Hill in a council owned asset are deeply concerning. They vilify trans and LGBTQIA+ persons.

“If it was a church-owned building it would be fine but this is a community asset.

“Council has a total responsibility to ensure the words and use of their community owned assets do not vilify, denigrate or harm others.’’

The City on a Hill church holds anti-gay and anti-abortion stances.

The council has a raft of LGBTQIA policies and is working on its action plan for diversity.

Stonnington councillor Mike Scott attended the Local Government Rainbow Conference in May and the council signed the Local Government Rainbow Pledge in 2020.

The church still has online its podcasts, some of which were recorded at Phoenix Park, which discuss trans and homosexual issues.

A council spokesperson said Stonnington took its commitment to the LGBTIQA+ community seriously.

“This is demonstrated through the progression of our LGBTIQA+ Action Plan and other initiatives.

“We will continue our discussions with City on a Hill as we seek additional information, and confirm the church clearly understands council’s expectations and commitment to a diverse and inclusive community.’’

The Herald Sun believes talks were held in late November between church leaders and a council executive. No action was taken, and that further talks will be held.

It’s understood that Mr Thorburn is considering legal action over his departure.