Sunday 10th April 2016

“Experiencing the love and life of Christ through vibrant and life changing communities and creative partnerships.”

Sunday’s service was conducted by Rev Dr Des Parker. It was lovely to see him back at our pulpit. Des asked the congregation what they could remember of the painting of Whistler’s Mother and had many details given to him. Whistler was quite an interesting person whose mother came to live with him to help “sort him out”. He painted the picture to look at the differences in black and greys and was not called Whistler’s Mother. Things aren’t always as they seem. Des pointed out that Chapter 21 of John’s Gospel was not always in the gospel but was added later and when that happened it changed the meaning. Was this what John intended? Des commented that he had read commentator William Barclay’s account of Chapter 21 who explained the fishing experience of people who left someone on the shore to direct the fishermen to catch fish. This wasn’t meant to be a miracle but to show the truth and real meaning. Are we comfortable to do things differently – no we are challenged. Is the story a true story – yes but it was a story told to teach us a particular message. The story has an important meaning which is to make us think through the issues. We need to think outside the square and see the signs. Sometimes this is hard, sometimes easier. We are not alone but there with God.

Please note that during Ann’s absence if the need arises contact Martie Harding 0418563682

An invitation from Pakenham Baptist Men’s Breakfast group to their meeting Saturday 126^th April 8.00am at 1 Bentley Court. Guest Speaker is Peter Reynolds from 4Cs who will share the work and challenges of 4C’s. RSVP 0417537872

A door bell has been installed if you need access to and don’t have a key and someone is inside. Thank you John. The lock has also been removed from the kitchen door so we will not have any more incidents of no access.

Before her long service leave Rev. Ann met with John from John Mc Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation which runs charity events and fundraisers to support local organisations. Ann and John spoke about Drop In and its history and John visited a few times while meals were being served. When Ann returns from leave she is keen to continue discussions with John regarding possible funding opportunities for an expanded drop in.

Pastor Belinda has been conducting Wild Worship once a month on a Saturday and anyone who has not attended with children are missing out on a well-run fun 2 hours. We have had a wonderful time experiencing our second childhood, having a laugh and joining in fellowship. We have used our creativity and then had a shared meal afterwards. Belinda provides many activities and is well prepared. Please consider coming to Saturday 21st May 5.00 – 7.00pm and every 3^rd Saturday for the remainder of the year. A great time for children, their parents and grandparents.

Working with Children. The Synod of the Uniting Church has ruled that all people who are appointed in roles in the church such Elders, Church Councillors, worship leaders, anyone involved in children’s and youth events, programs or activities, anyone commissioned by Church Council to perform roles in music, bible study, home groups or cell groups. Please get the instruction sheet from Olive or see her and she will help you log in on the church computer.

An analogue TV is looking for a good home. It will need a set top box but is in very good condition. See John Stitt.

Pew sheet information can be left in the folder in the kitchen by Tuesday pm or sent to missglynis@bigpond.com

This week:

Wednesday 14^th April 2.00pm              Otira Readers have a discussion of “Testing Tradition and Liberating Theology at Eunice Smith’s (Unit 12 Meadowvale)

Friday 15^th April 10.00am                                MECWA Drop In lunch Joan Johnston and Roma Warner

Sunday 17^th April 8.45am                                 Officer Service: Joan Vogels                 .

Sunday 17th April 10.00am                              Pakenham Service: Nathaniel Atem

Sunday 17th April 11.00am                              Morning Tea: Roma Warner and Lyn Stephenson. Washing up assistance always appreciated

Tuesday 19^th April 10.00 – 11.30am                Beehive Craft Group

Tuesday 19^th April 10.00- 12.00pm                 Main Street Playgroup

Coming events

Saturday 21^st May 5.00 – 7.00pm                    Wild Worship with Pastor Belinda Clear. Please join the crowd.

Friday 3^rd June 7.30pm                         Opening of Synod at Wesley Church (148 Lonsdale St. Melb)

Saturday 4^th – 8^th June 9.00am                          Synod meeting (Box Hill Town Hall)

“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe” John 20 V29