Sunday 3^rd July 2016

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

Rev Ann Simons and Liturgist Joan Vogels conducted the Sunday service for the beginning of NAIDOC week (July 3^rd – 10^th) This week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Ann’s story to the children was about helping others and she told us that one of the young men was at Somers Camp as a slushie so he was helping others. Sharing the Good News was the basis of the service. We are still in the season of Pentecost and the current colour is green – symbolising the growth of the church in our world. In our world we are sent out to teach and preach and heal. Jesus sent his disciples to say to the people that the message of God has come. The urgency to give out the information that the kingdom of God is here. The original disciples have gone but God continues to call people to spread the message.

A huge thank you to everyone who helped in any way for with the BBQ at the election on Saturday. Lots of people did lots of things from cutting onions and coleslaw to cooking and serving on the day. Thanks also to the set up and clean-up crews. A very pleasing profit was made. As well the raffle was very successful. Thank you all again.

Friendship Group meeting is Wednesday 6^th July. Jenny Hunt from the Samaritan’s Purse is the guest speaker. This organisation provides assistance across the world to those in need. One of the projects is Operation Christmas Child where Shoeboxes with goodies for young people are distributed.

Next week is the Annual General Meeting of Officer Pakenham Mission Area. Reports are available and will be referred to during the meeting. Elders will be elected at the start of the worship service and announced during the meeting. Nominations are Adrienne Cathcart – 3 years, Robyn Eastwood – 1 year and John McKay 1 year.

Main Street Playgroup (that’s us) is holding an open day on Tuesday 26^th July 10.00am – Noon. Please take a postcard and pop it in a letterbox or nearby business.

Julie Waters is supporting Pastoral Care call her on 0401073685. Julie is keen to start a prayer time to pray for the work and workers in the Officer Pakenham Mission Area. Watch for the time and place or talk to Julie.

“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 July 17^th is the dedication and installation of the mural.

Mission Liaison Group have sent away a huge amount of items. Goods have included furniture, clothing, back packs with school equipment. If you have any items which you would like to donate please bring them for the collection which is then forwarded TO A “NEW LIFE IN THE Pacific”.

Don’t forget the donation jars in the foyer for “Fellowship of the Least Coin”, “4Cs Combined Christian Churches” who support people locally and “Lexi Waters”. Also a tin for Asylum Seekers. If you have spare coins please consider these containers.

Please note Beehive and Playgroup are taking a well-deserved rest.

Pew sheet information can be left in the folder in the kitchen by Thursday pm, phoned to her 0407506662 or missglynis@bigpond.com

This week:

Wednesday 6^th July 1.30pm                              Singing Group Practice at Fiona’s

Wednesday 6^th July 1.30pm                              Friendship Group with guest speaker Jenny Hunt (Samaritan’s Purse)

Friday 8^th July 10.00am                                    MECWA Drop In lunch Doreen and John Stitt

Sunday 10th July 10.00am                                Pakenham Service: OPMA to lead worship

Sunday 10^th July 11.00am                                 OPMA Annual Meeting

Sunday 10th July 11.00am                                Morning Tea: Rieky Volders and Corrie Vandertak. Washing up assistance always appreciated

Coming events

Saturday 16^th July 5.00 – 7.00pm                     Messy Church “From little things big things grow”

Sunday 17^th July                                               Installation and dedication of MURAL

Sunday 24^th July 3.00pm                                  Ordination Service for Nathaniel Atem at Springvale

Tuesday 26^th July 10.00 – Noon                       Playgroup Open Day

“O Lord my God in you I take refuge.” Psalm Ch 7 V1