A former Uniting Church minister who also ran one of the country's most prominent gay conversion therapy programs has been charged with committing historical child sexual offences more than 30 years ago.

Former Reverend Ron Charles Brookman, 70, faced a Sydney court on Tuesday over allegations he indecently assaulted a 13-year-old who was in his care between September and October 1989.

Former Reverend Ron Brookman (centre) leaves Newtown Court on Tuesday morning with his wife Ruth Brookman (left). Credit:Kate Geraghty

The offence allegedly took place while Mr Brookman was serving as a minister at Newtown Mission Uniting Church.

It was first reported to officers from Inner West Police Area Command in October 2018, prompting an investigation that culminated in Mr Brooker's arrest at Newtown Police Station on January 14.