Despite a public outcry, Rev Bradbery's tenure with Wollongong's Church on the Mall will be terminated at the end of 2010, as decided by the Illawarra presbytery in August.

His termination date and future destination have yet to be announced.

Rev Bradbery, who has ministered in the Illawarra for 15 years and is affectionately known as the People's Padre, yesterday declined to comment on the decision other than to say he was "deeply disappointed".

The decision was made at a meeting of the presbytery on Wednesday night which discussed an October 25 motion unanimously adopted by the church's congregation to have the move rescinded.

"We ask the presbytery to repair the profile of the Uniting Church by reversing its decision and showing its awareness of the special nature of the ministry in Wollongong," the motion read.

"We are concerned that the damage caused will limit the work of the Mission, leave the congregation disillusioned and make it difficult for any future ministry.

"This decision has damaged the reputation of the Uniting Church. We invite the presbytery to show its openness to hear the wishes of the grassroots of the church and community."

The Church Council had previously expressed its unanimous support for the minister and a Save Rev Gordon Bradbery Facebook page drew 1500 members.

Lake Heights man Todd Childs, who established the page, was shocked when told of the decision.

"I think it's shocking. I think it's absolutely disgusting," he said.

"This is a man who people trust.

"In times of grief and traumatic circumstances, who are people going to turn to now?

"Who are they going to trust, because a lot of people are going to feel betrayed by this."

Mr Childs vowed not to return to Church on the Mall.

"I would be happy to follow the reverend wherever he goes, and keep in contact and have him travel from wherever he is to come down and continue his work," he said.

"He is a great man - he will be missed. All we can do for him now is offer our support."

Rev Bradbery was honoured with a Rotary Vocational Services Award recognising his commitment to the region, and was named inaugural Illawarra Mercury Person of the Year in 2008.

The Uniting Church has said it is unusual to extend a ministry beyond 10 years.