Gazette
Sunday 13th November 2016
“Experiencing the love and life of Christ through vibrant and life changing communities and creative partnerships.”
Sunday was All Saints Day and Rev Ann conducted the service entitled “To remember and give thanks”. The service honoured departed members of the church and also those who have contributed to the church in this place. Candles were lit representing the names of past congregation members. We also remembered those who are still living who had helped people in their faith journey. We heard the story of Daniel’s dream, which was really a nightmare. We have fantasies of things and we become scared just as Daniel did when he described the four beasts. We see and hear the same issues today with wicked happenings today and in the recent past such as the holocaust and world wars. Mental health issues in our society have become a major issue. If we do not experience fear perhaps we are not paying attention. What can we do to calm our fears? Talk to friends and medical practitioners. We can pray for a world which will be more just. Stopping and listening would help. Daniel speaks of a new humanity which we need to support. On All Saints Day we recall the rich heritage of people who form the rich tapestry of our lives.
Over the next few weeks the Uniting Church is seeking our support both through the SHARE Appeal and also the Christmas Bowl Appeal which this year is supporting Zimbabwean families who are facing severe hunger. Please prayerfully discern these appeals.
Advent studies are coming. Prayerfully consider hosting a group in your home. The discussions will focus on the four themes of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love. All you need to host a group is the gift of hospitality. If you are unable to host please join a group.
SHARE Christmas cards are displayed in a folder in foyer. Cards are $9 per packet of 10. See Wendy so we can do a bulk order.
MOVEMBER is the Men’s Prostrate Cancer Appeal. John Stitt has had his moustache for nearly 40 years and is willing to shave it off this Movember in support of Men’s Health. This event will occur after church on November 27th. Wonder what Doreen’s reaction will be? Receipts will be available for any donations.
At the November Interfaith Network 4Cs spoke of the need in the Shire of Cardinia. They are working with Salvation Army and Vinnies to prepare hampers for Christmas. We always have a collection container in our foyer so please contribute soup, tinned food, tuna, fruit juice, tea coffee and sugar. This will assist the people living in hardship in our shire.
Homework Hub is held each Tuesday 3.30 – 5.30pm. You are welcome to drop in at any time to assist with the meal or do some reading with the children. Kirsty Simons is organising this and really could do with some help. Please remember you will need a Working With Children Check. See Olive for assistance with this. The Safe Mothers, Safe Children program is also operating with Martha Mai leading.
Donation jars are 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.
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 16th November 1.30pm Millhaven service
Friday 18th November 10.00am MECWA lunch Doreen Stitt and Joan Johnston
Saturday 19th November 9.30 – 3.30pm Tour of places of worship. Confirmed are a Hindu Temple, Islamic Centre and another to be planned. See Margaret McKay for details. Cost $10 per person, $15 family.
Saturday 19th & 20th November 10 – 4.00 Open Garden “Rose Vista” 315 Pakenham Road Pakenham. Devonshire tea and lunch available.
Sunday 20th November 8.45am Officer Service: Rev. Ann Simons
Sunday 20th November 10.00am Pakenham Service: Rev Ann Simons
Sunday 20th November 11.00am Morning Tea: Marie Harding and Julie Waters. Washing up assistance always appreciated
Tuesday 22nd November 10.00 -Noon Beehive craft.
Tuesday 22nd November 10.00 – Noon Main Street Playgroup
Tuesday 22nd November 1.30pm Mc Gregor Gardens Service
Tuesday 22nd November 3.30 – 5.30pm Homework Hub
Tuesday 22nd November 3.30 – 5.30pm Martha’s Mums Group
Coming events
Saturday 26th November 5.00-7.00pm Messy Church
Sunday 4th December Noon Christmas Lunch Book on the notice board.
“The Lord is king. He is clothed with majesty and strength.” Psalm 93 V1