Sunday 24th April 2016

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

Sunday’s communion service was conducted by Rev. Robin Yang. Robin has been a minister for the last 6 years and prior was a youth worker with the Uniting Church. He is currently studying for a Doctorate of Theology. The readings included “a new commandment” with Jesus’ command to “love one another”. There is a challenge to live this text out. Robin told us of his time a Melbourne church where he met an old lady of 85 who was strongly independent. A fall meant she was hospitalised and with no children her other relatives had her committed to a nursing home. She was deeply sad as she had lost her past and became angry with her situation. Not being able to forgive was very apparent. It is often hard to forgive. Even when Jesus knew his time was short he was still able to minister to his Disciples – even washing their feet. His simple words to the Disciples to love one another was imposing a new law which was greater that all the other commandments. Simple words which are so difficult to live out as even people who are Christians hurt each other. Our witness depends on our love for other Christians, focussing on our unity not things which divide us.

Please note that during Ann’s absence if the need arises contact Marie Harding 0418563682 also Julie Waters is supporting Pastoral Care call her on 0401073685

New giving envelopes have been distributed in the last 2 weeks. Please pick yours up from the foyer or if you would like some please see Wendy.

“Mural on Main” is a partnership with Beaconhills College giving the opportunity for everyone to take part in a project which will occur at our church. Times are varied Monday 9am – 2pm, Tuesday 3.30pm – 6pm, Wednesday 1pm to 6pm, Thursday 3.30pm – 6pm, Friday 9am – 12 noon, Saturday 9am – 12noon. There are times to suit everyone so come along and use your talents and have fun at the same time. Contact Marie Harding 59427326 for more details.

Sunday 29^th May will be a hymn service so if you have any favourites please see Joan Vogels or Bruce Chappell.

Have you noticed in the foyer that there are a number of jars which can receive your donations? These include “Fellowship of the Least Coin” a world-wide movement for peace, justice and reconciliation.” 4Cs Combined Christian Churches” who support people locally and “Lexi Waters” who is now back in Jordan but will soon be travelling to America to continue her training as a Debriefer for people coming from war zones, also a tin for Asylum Seekers. If you have spare coins please consider these containers.

Sammy Stamp is a UCAF special needs fund which provides small grants for projects. Please place your used stamps in the container.

The next Wild Worship with Pastor Belinda Clear is on 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. If you have not got your yet please see Olive.

Pew sheet information can be left in the folder in the kitchen by Thursday pm, phoned to her 0407506662 while her email is being connected in Pakenham

This week:

Wednesday 27^th April 9.30am                        Elders meeting at the church

Thursday 28^th April 2.30pm                            Meadowvale Service: Rev. Eunice Smith

Friday 29^th April 10.00am                               MECWA Drop In lunch Ruth and Bruce Chappell

Sunday 1^st May 8.45am                                  Officer Service: Joan Vogels

Sunday 1^st May 10.00am                                Pakenham Service: Adrienne Dyall

Sunday 1^st May 11.00am                                Morning Tea: Robyn Eastwood. Washing up assistance always appreciated

Tuesday 3^rd May 10.00 – 11.30am                  Beehive Craft Group

Tuesday 3^rd May 10.00- 12.00pm                  Main Street Playgroup

Coming events

Wednesday 11^th May 6.00pm                         Mayoral volunteers’ reception

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)

Wednesday 8^th June 9.30am                           Diabetes Forum. $5 entry includes morning tea and lunch RSVP June 1^st Meryl 50411306

“Now the Son of Man has been glorified and God has been glorified in him” John Ch13 V 31.