Gazette
Sunday 1st May 2016
“Experiencing the love and life of Christ through vibrant and life changing communities and creative partnerships.”
Sunday’s service was conducted by Adrienne Dyall who worships at St. Stephen’s Uniting Church Wodonga, where she is the Council Chairperson. She attended the Parliament of the World’s Religions when it was held in Melbourne. Last year she travelled to Salt Lake City USA to participate. Today’s Bible reading was about the loaves and fishes – hospitality in action. Adrienne told us about Langar meals prepared by the Sikhs for the Parliament served to 5000 people on the first day. Traditionally sitting on the floor food was served to everyone. The numbers grew as the time went on. The Sikhs refused to be paid – seeing it as a gift, allowing people to know more about the Sikh community. The Parliament of the World’s Religions started 1893 again in 1993 in South Africa, Spain and Australia. Last year’s theme was reclaiming the heart of humanity with 50 faiths and 80 countries. The overall idea is that the world can be changed. Many faiths attended, some dressing in traditional clothing. Climate change, stewardship, social justice, equality and homelessness dominated the conference. Salt Lake City was a wonderful venue for the conference. Program went from 7.00am – 10.00pm with people able to choose sessions. The question “why attend?” was the basis. Adrienne enjoyed the Melbourne conference encouraging her to continue. She has continued to correspond with others since. Adrienne told us of a NILS (No Interest Loan Scheme) which is run in Victoria to help people with small loans for everyday items – whitegoods. No other country runs this scheme. Adrienne told us of many of the groups she attended, all very interesting.
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 29th 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 in the foyer.
The next Wild Worship with Pastor Belinda Clear is on Saturday 21st May 5.00 – 7.00pm and every 3rd Saturday for the remainder of the year. A great time for children, their parents and grandparents.
Working with Children. If you have not got yours 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 4th May 1.30pm Friendship Group Speaker from 4Cs
Friday 6th May 10.00am MECWA Drop In lunch Doreen Stitt and Robyn Eastwood
Sunday 8th May 10.00am Pakenham Service: Mothers’ Day Ann Connon
Sunday 8th May 11.00am Morning Tea: Rosemary Furse and Jeanette Green. Washing up assistance always appreciated
Tuesday 10th May 10.00 – 11.30am Beehive Craft Group
Tuesday 10th May 10.00- 12.00pm Main Street Playgroup
Coming events
Wednesday 11th May 6.00pm Mayoral volunteers’ reception
Saturday 21st May 5.00 – 7.00pm Wild Worship with Pastor Belinda Clear. Please join the crowd.
Saturday 28th May 9.00 onwards Biggest Morning Tea at Waterhouse residence Pakenham Rd.
Friday 3rd June 7.30pm Opening of Synod at Wesley Church (148 Lonsdale St. Melb)
Saturday 4th – 8th June 9.00am Synod meeting (Box Hill Town Hall)
Wednesday 8th June 9.30am Diabetes Forum. $5 entry includes morning tea and lunch RSVP June 1st Meryl 50411306
“Now the Son of Man has been glorified and God has been glorified in him” John Ch13 V 31.