Friday, August 26, 2011

28 August 2011

A compelling vision

We believe in a God that created us for Him and for each other. We believe in Jesus who welcomes young and old without exception. We believe in the Holy Spirit who transforms the life of all believers, young and old.
We believe in meeting God most intimately in the lives of those who are different from ourselves. We believe we grow closer to Jesus as his disciples when we:
-        worship God in a variety of ways, both familiar and different
-        worship in community as well as individually
-        worship in a way that encourages everyone to participate
-        worship in a way that both enriches and is enriched by our every day lives
-                  worship God with all that we are
A manifesto for all-age church…Lucy Moore
The church is starting to open its eyes to the spirituality of children as well as that of adults. We are beginning to understand that God works from before our birth until after we die and that he has a job for all believers to do, regardless of age. Worship is and should be a huge part of who we are as a church, yet we can only worship 24/7 when we are reminded every week of the ways God is working at home and at work, away from the gathered church as well as within it. God is relevant, active and present in the whole of our lives and, to avoid the trap of boxing him into Sundays, we must ensure that together we always refer back to our everyday life. When we learn to share with each other beyond a ‘hello’ or ‘goodbye’, praise and worship becomes a response to what we see and hear throughout the week. When this happens, the whole church benefits from skills and attitudes that people learn in the world of work.
God has been challenging me to ‘re think’ the way we do church, and in particular the way I build connections and relationships on Sundays. I am excited to see us meeting together as a church to pray and listen to God for ‘what’s next’ in the life of this community. I look forward to hearing more as together we unpack God’s will for this place, but hope you will join me in acknowledging the importance of connecting with each other on a deeper level as we seek to become more Christ like in mission and ministry.
Laura Carson
Children and Family Team Leader
Prayer Requests
For privacy the prayer list is not included in this Blog but if you would like to view the current requests refer to the e-mail that alerted you to this site.   If you have a prayer request or wish to be covered by prayer please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.








This week the series PARABLES WITH PUNCH - STORIES THAT STIR continues.  How big can a mustard seed appear? You may have all seen the advert on TV from Small things………….
This week’s message title is “From small beginnings”.

                                 Bible Reading:Matthew 13:31-35
Podcasts available at www.paravista.org.au

Last Saturday around sixty people gathered to spend time listening to God and seeking his revelation about where to next as a church. Part of our time together was spent in small groups sharing what we had received from God. These responses were collected, transcribed and are now on display in the hall on the pin up boards. These will remain up for the next two Sundays for everyone to view.
We encourage you to take the time to read them. The comments are a collection of Bible verses, ideas, reflections and prophecies people received in their time with God last Saturday. This Sunday there will be pancakes served in the hall after service as a fundraiser for the Cebu Missionary Foundation, so you can enjoy some good food as you browse the display.  

We are sharing this with the whole congregation in the desire that you will get a feel for what God is stirring among us. If you were not able to make it on Saturday but sense that God has given you something you would like included in this display, feel free to email it to Pastor Noel, nkluge@paravista.org.au. We have also put a printed copy of all the comments on our webpage for you to look at under Members/Reports/What’s next Lord? 
On Saturday, 10th September, 9am-12pm we will be gathering for the next phase of ‘What’s Next Lord?’ In this session we will be taking all the responses displayed in the hall and discerning the main themes and direction God is giving us from them. Everyone is welcome to participate, even if you did not attend the first session. If you would like to attend this session please register to ensure we have sufficient group leaders and materials. You can do this via your welcome card on Sunday, call the office during the week on 8263 5087, or emai churchenquiries@paravista.org.au
Thank you to everyone who invested their time participating in our first ‘What’s Next Lord?’ From the feedback we have received it is evident that people were really blessed by being a part of it. People also felt included in discerning God’s future direction for our church. We continue to be expectant before God as we seek him for direction. 

Pastor Noel





Bring a Friend Adventure Day – Run by some of the Ignite Youth Leadership Team
**Last minute reminder**


What: a fun and God centered day of games, activities, craft, music and movement
When: Sunday 28th August at both the 8:45am and 10:30am services
Where: in the OSHC room
Who: everyone is welcome. Kids, bring a friend or two and get ready to have a blast!
We will be preparing for our involvement in the morning Father’s Day services on the 4th September.  

Family Newsletters are out!! Check your pigeon hole this Sunday for the latest Kingdom Kids and Family update.  We have put one in every pigeon hole as we believe it’s important that everyone in this church hears what’s happening in our Children and Family Ministry. If you would prefer not to receive these updates, please let Laura know.

8:45AM KINGDOM KIDS NEEDS YOUR HELP– we are still praying for a response!
Each Sunday during the school term Kingdom Kids runs for children aged 3-8 during the 8:45am Sunday service. Due to child safe laws we must have 2 adults rostered on each week; a teacher and an assistant. We currently have the parents of regular participants running the program, but are in need of a few more helpers. Please consider coming along to help, even if it is only once or twice a term. Team assistants don’t need to do any preparation but need to have a passion and interest in seeing children nurtured and encouraged in their faith.  It doesn’t matter what age you are or whether or not you have children. If interested please email me, call me or make a note on your welcome card. We hope you can join the team. Laura
Parenting room donations: do you have a Christian child’s book that you no longer need? Is it still in good condition? Then we’d love to add it to our collection in the new parenting room. Please place donations in the box located by the Kingdom Kids sign in table. Thank you so much in advance for your generosity.
Laura Carson
Children and Family Team Leader
For Ignite Youth activities please go to our website www.paravista.org.au
I will be away till the end of September. If you have any questions please contact the office, 82635087.
Blessings,
Sophie Gerrie
Youth and Young Adults Team Leader

Women's Fellowship
next meet on Tuesday 6th September in the church hall at 1.00pm.
Pastor Rolly Stahl will lead bible study.
This month’s guest speaker Dot Stagg is from Offender's Aid and Rehabilitation Services (OARS).
There will be a trading table and afternoon tea.

Women @ PV –








The next event is coming up on the 30th September - You are Amazing. Fliers are now available from the church office and foyer. Lock it in ladies and get ready for a truly magical night of musical entertainment and fun. women@paravista.org.au 








Mission news 

PANCAKE DAY
The Overseas Mission Fundraising Team will be holding a Pancake Day on Sunday 28th August after both morning services.  $1 for a yummy pancake with a choice of maple syrup or lemon juice and sugar.  Thankyou for your continued support.   All proceeds to Cebu Missionary Foundation in the Philippines.

Spring/Summer Plant Stall
In June we held a successful plant stall....thank you to all who donated and bought plants.  I had several people ask if we would be holding a Spring/Summer stall, so we thought we would try that this time. It will be held on Sunday 9th October. So if you have plants in your garden that can be potted up or pots that need to be divided, then pot them up now and bring them along in October. Looking forward to your support once again. All proceeds will be going to Cebu Mission Foundation in the Philippines. 
Thanks from Joan McCarthy and Overseas Mission Fundraising Team

Sue’s Cards. Sue will be offering her amazing handmade cards on Sunday after both morning services. Looking for that special Father’s Day card?  Thinking of an early start to the Christmas mail?  See Sue and you will not be disappointed while our missions outreach into Cebu and Cambodia will benefit. 



I’M BACK - WITH A BIT OF A LIMP
I thank God for this church family. I was overwhelmed by the phone calls, the cards and the visits by so many. And most of all I am so grateful for the prayers for me for the operation and the recovery period.
I was reading Acts and as I did I saw that it was ‘ordinary’ men and women who made such a strong contribution to the formation and development of the church. Being involved in simple and what can be described as mundane acts such as setting up tables on Sunday morning is an act of ministry that blesses so many as they sit and chat and have a brew. With that I am so thankful for those who set up the tables and the percolated coffee for the morning services. 
Again, thank you

Barry Klaer
Pastoral Care & Fellowship

                                   From the office

Donation much appreciated.

The main urn used for the majority of events in the hall developed a major leak and could no longer be used. Through a generous donation by a member we were able to purchase a new urn and tea/coffee is as usual freely available. We thank this person for their generous donation.

Facilities.
To overcome a dangerous situation the step at the entrance to the outside offices has been replaced. 

The Facilities Team
The housekeeping and Insurance audits have been completed. The outcomes were very positive with only a few minor issues identified. This is a vast improvement from the first audits several years ago.
You may have noticed changes to the island area as you enter from Montague Road and the garden area in front of the Parking for the Disabled. This is part of the process of making access to the hall and church safer for the residents of the village, especially those who use walkers or gophers. At present they have to go into the traffic flow areas. More details as plans come to fruition. 

Church Notice Board
To prevent unsolicited information on the church notice board please leave all brochures and advertisements at the church office or in the church office pigeon hole.   Any items posted without office approval will be removed.  All items for the notice board will be displayed for a maximum of four weeks.  

Lutheran Community Care
Thank you to the many loyal supporters for your generosity towards LCC Winter Appeal.
Just a reminder to those who have not yet made their donations… We still need your help to keep up the demand for assistance during this very cold winter. Your donation will buy warm clothes, blankets and food for the people sleeping rough or doing it tough.
To make a donation visit www.lccare.org.au or phone 8269 9333 (ask for Miranda or Megan)

Stamps for Missions
Thank you to all who keep their used stamps and place them in the Stamps for Mission’s box.  Would you believe a total of $10,000 has been raised to support missions Projects for 2011?   See the notice board for details of where the funds have been allocated. Keep saving your stamps.

‘The Lutheran’
SEPTEMBER ISSUE OUT NOW
BLENDING
When making a beautiful picture there’s going
to be some mess
BRINGING BACK BACH
Wellington woos lovers of classics
AFRICA HUNGER CRISIS
Lutherans quick to respond

11 issues per year; $39 Australia, $41 New Zealand
You can SUBSCRIBE ON-LINE www.thelutheran.com.au or contact the office for details


On the notice board



Warrambui Retreat and Conference Centre is a Lutheran Campsite in NSW. Each year six 12-month internships are offered to young people, providing an opportunity to serve, grow and be discipled within a Christian community which seeks to serve others and glorify God.
Interns experience many opportunities for personal growth and service to over 8000 guests who stay at Warrambui each year. This often includes cooking, teaching programs to school children, cleaning and performing some general maintenance. Interns are also involved in regular team discipleship times, mentoring sessions, team retreats and NSW Ministry Camps.
Please note that the closing date for applications is the 30th September 2011.

AngliCare: Foster carers are urgently required to provide overnight and emergency, long term, short term and respite care. Information Session Tuesday 13th September, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, at the Mawson Centre, 2-8 Main Street, Mawson Lakes. 

Koorong Presents an evening with Philip Yancy Seasons of the Soul.  With over fifteen million books sold worldwide, Philip Yancey is one of the most respected inspirational writers of our time.  In his fifth trip to Australia Philip will open up his latest bestseller, What Good is God? Information on session times and tickets on the notice board.

 
Nobody really cares if you're miserable, so you might as well be happy.  ~Cynthia Nelms


Church Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9.00am – 3.45pm
Church Web site: www.paravista.org.au

Friday, August 19, 2011

21 August 2011

Stories that Stir!

This is the title of our new worship series kicking off this Sunday morning.  Over the weeks ahead, we’re going to unpack a bunch of Jesus' stories.  I’m really looking forward to this!
Some things are so important they must be shared in a story.    

Theologian William Bausch writes: “Systematic theology engages the intellect; story telling engages the heart… Propositions are statements on a page; stories are events in a life.  Doctrine is the material of texts; story is the stuff of life.”#  We can know Bible truth in our minds - without it having much effect on the way we live.  Yet when a story cuts you to the heart, it has the power to change you forever.     

While many things impress me about Jesus, his stories are sheer genius.  Jesus used imagery from everyday life of the marketplace, agriculture, fishing, politics, and commerce to describe the kingdom of God: “The kingdom of God is like a man who scatters seed…”  Or: “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field…”  Or: “There was a man who had two sons…”    

In his cultural context, Jesus’ stories are not schmaltzy "feel good" tales - they are radical to the extreme.  In his stories:
·        Jesus paints pictures of what the kingdom of God is like. 
·        Jesus turns many cultural values of his day - and ours - upside down. 
·        Jesus draws us into a situation and confronts us with the values behind our choices.
·        Jesus uncovers some of our wrong assumptions about life. 
·        Jesus holds up a mirror for us to see our souls in the clear light of the kingdom of God. 
·        Jesus assures us of the Father’s constant concern, love, and kindness.
·        Jesus engages our imaginations, touches our hearts, and transforms our lives.  

Jesus’ stories have a way of scratching below the surface.  Sometimes, this may make us feel a little uncomfortable.  Yet in our discomfort, we get to discover more about the goodness and grace of God.  
Come and be part of God’s unfolding story! 

Pr Rolly Stahl

# William J. Bausch, Storytelling Imagination and Faith (Connecticut: Twenty Third Publications, 1996), 27-28.


Prayer Requests - : For privacy the prayer list is not included in this Blog but if you would like to view the current requests refer to the e-mail that alerted you to this site.   If you have a prayer request or wish to be covered by prayer please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.


This week the 8.45am and 10.30am communities start a new series PARABLES WITH
PUNCH - STORIES THAT STIR
.  This Sunday we look at the parable of the sower “Whoever has ears, let them hear.” The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?” He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken away from them.” Matthew 13:9-11
                                 Bible Reading: Matthew 13:1-15

The 6.00pm community  will finish the series “Sex and the Saints” with the topic God’s design for dating.  Bible Reading : Eccl 4:7-12; Matthew 5:13-16; 1 Thess 4:1-8 

Podcasts available at www.paravista.org.au  





Bring a Friend Adventure Day – Run by some of the Ignite Youth Leadership Team
What: a fun and God centered day of games, activities, craft, music and movement
When: Sunday 28th August at both the 8:45am and 10:30am services
Where: in the OSHC room
Who: everyone is welcome. Kids, bring a friend or two and get ready to have a blast!

We will also be preparing for Father’s day and our involvement in the morning services on the 4th September. Keep your eyes out for the newsletter and ‘Bring a friend invite’ coming out soon.

New steps forwards
 As a young mum and the Team Leader of Children and Family Ministry at PV, I strongly encourage all families within this community to come along to the “What’s Next Lord” conference, to be held this Saturday morning at the church. I have already received so many ideas dreams and visions from families within this church, school and extended community regarding Children and Family Ministry; our school, our Sunday kids’ program, messy church, outreach opportunities, faith at home resources, milestone ministries, play group and more. I am pumped but can’t make any of this happen on my own. These dreams and visions need to come from God, and need to be brought to life by the members of this church.  You will not regret giving the time to come along and hear from God. Together we can continue to become a church which reaches out and impacts the kingdom. More details will be listed in the blog. DON’T MAKE EXCUSES…JUST COME!!!

8:45AM KINGDOM KIDS NEEDS YOUR HELP

Each Sunday during the school term Kingdom Kids runs for children aged 3-8 during the 8:45am Sunday service. Due to child safe laws we must have 2 adults rostered on each week; a teacher and an assistant. We currently have the parents of regular participants running the program, but are in need of a few more helpers. Please consider coming along to help, even if it is only once or twice a term. Team assistants don’t need to do any preparation but need to have a passion and interest in seeing children nurtured and encouraged in their faith.  It doesn’t matter what age you are or whether or not you have children. If interested please email me, call me or make a note on your welcome card. We hope you can join the team. Laura

No Saturday fitness this week. Due to the ‘What’s next Lord’ Conference, Saturday morning fitness has been cancelled this week. I look forward to seeing you back on the 27th August. Keep up the great work! 

For Ignite Youth activities please go to our website www.paravista.org.au
I will be away till the end of September. If you have any questions please contact the office, 8263 5087.
Blessings,
Sophie Gerrie
Youth and Young Adults Team Leader



Women's Fellowship 
next meet on Tuesday 6th September in the church hall at 1.00pm.
Pastor Rolly Stahl will lead bible study.
This month’s guest speaker Dot Stagg is from Offender's Aid and Rehabilitation Services (OARS).
There will be a trading table and afternoon tea.
 


 Mission news

PANCAKE DAY
The Overseas Mission Fundraising Team will be holding a Pancake Day on Sunday 28th August after both morning services.
$1 for a yummy pancake with a choice of maple syrup or lemon juice and sugar.
Thankyou for your continued support. All proceeds to Cebu Missionary Foundation in the Philippines.

Spring/Summer Plant Stall
In June we held a successful plant stall....thank you to all who donated and bought plants.  I had several people ask if we would be holding a Spring/Summer stall, so we thought we would try that this time. It will be held on Sun 9th October. So if you have plants in your garden that can be potted up or pots that need to be divided, then pot them up now and bring them along in October. Looking forward to your support once again. All proceeds will be going to Cebu Mission Foundation in the Philippines. 

Thanks from Joan McCarthy and Overseas Mission Fundraising Team

                                   From the office


Permission to publish photos
We would like to keep our community up to date with all the exciting things happening here at Para Vista.  Everyone knows a picture says a thousand words but we cannot publish them if we do not have your permission. 
Thank you to all who have filled in the permission form. 
If you have not yet filled in a form, please complete the Permission to use your photo form available from the information area, and return to the church office pigeon hole. 

Please note office closed for staff meeting
On Thursday 25th Aug from 9.00 to 10.00am

Friends of Lutheran Archives meeting. Topic: Siassi: another day in paradise. Or is it? Was it ever? Speaker: Colin Hayter. The Siassi islands of New Guinea recently celebrated 100 years since the coming of the Gospel. Colin taught at Siassi in 1965-1972. At Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place, Adelaide, on Monday 22nd August at 7.30pm. Supper. Gold coin donation. 


A new way to show Dad how much you care.
Can’t think of anything special to get your Dad this Father’s Day?  His drawers are already full of socks and hankies….and his tummy probably shouldn’t have any more choccies.
Why not choose a Lutheran Community Care Kit for Dad this Father’s Day?
With these special kits, you get a wonderful and meaningful Father’s Day card for your Dad….while your actual gift provides care and support to South Aussie Dads and families doing it tough.
Care kit brochures can be obtained from the information area or contact Thelma Eckert on 8359 7106.



Calling all Bikers!
Our next group motorbike ride has been organised for Saturday 27th August. We will be meeting in the church car park at 9.20am for a 9.30am departure. The ride will be up into the Adelaide Hills with a morning tea break and lunch stop. We expect to get back early afternoon and you are welcome to head off home any time during the ride if you need to get back earlier. Everyone is welcome and don’t hesitate to invite friends. It will be cold so dress warmly. The ride will be cancelled if raining. For more information, call Noel on 0427 049 296.


Lutheran Community Care
Thank you to the many loyal supporters for your generosity towards LCC Winter Appeal.
Just a reminder to those who have not yet made their donations… We still need your help to keep up the demand for assistance during this very cold winter. Your donation will buy warm clothes, blankets and food for the people sleeping rough or doing it tough.
To make a donation visit www.lccare.org.au or phone 8269 9333 (ask for Miranda or Megan)


From the church board
Funding the mission

The current picture
Weekly offerings continue to provide the financial foundation for the achievement of our mission. However as we progress further towards our mission, both within and beyond our local community, we cannot hope to fund the associated costs entirely from weekly offerings. 

Additional sources of funding
The congregation has established a Foundation. This provides an excellent opportunity to support our mission on an annual basis. This is because only the annual interest is available for use so that the capital provides an ongoing additional source of annual income. $100,000 in the Foundation would provide $4,500 (on present LLL interest rates) additional income to be used to achieve our mission.
How can you contribute to the Foundation?
If you would like to annually impact progress towards our mission this can be done in 3 ways:
  • by making a one off donation  (tax refund time)
  • by making regular contributions
  • through a bequest.
For more details:
  • full details are in the Funding the Mission brochure in the members Information Area in the foyer.
  • contact John Dolling the Administration Manager (8263 5087) or jdolling@paravista.org.au 
Foundation account details
Lutheran Layperson’s League
Account Name: PV Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Foundation
BSB: 704942
Account No: 128168 (add S1 if transferring from another LLL account) 


On the notice board

Warrambui Retreat and Conference Centre is a Lutheran Campsite in NSW. Each year six 12-month internships are offered to young people, providing an opportunity to serve, grow and be discipled within a Christian community which seeks to serve others and glorify God.
Interns experience many opportunities for personal growth and service to over 8000 guests who stay at Warrambui each year. This often includes cooking, teaching programs to school children, cleaning and performing some general maintenance. Interns are also involved in regular team discipleship times, mentoring sessions, team retreats and NSW Ministry Camps.
Please note that the closing date for applications is the 30th September 2011.

AngliCare: Foster careers are urgently required to provide overnight and emergency, long term, short term and respite care. Information Session Tuesday 13th September at the Mawson Centre, 2-8 Main Street, Mawson Lakes from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.


"Bringing Restoration" Charity Concert
Friday 23rd September from 7:00pm - 10:00pm
South Australian Folk Centre,  Corner South and George Street,  Thebarton
All tickets at the door.  Feature Artist: Joe Man Murphy. There will also be a variety of other artists of various styles.
Adults $15 Concession $12 Folk Centre Members $10 Children. 

Tutor available
See qualifications on the notice board.

Women’s Weekend  Longwood Camp
September 9th-11th September 2011 you are invited to take a ‘Wonder Full World’ weekend journey packed with friendship, fun, God and spiritual growth.  Further information on the notice board or contact Our Saviour Lutheran Church on 8270 4466.


RAISING GIRLS

Steve Biddulph is one of the world's best loved authors and speakers.
His work on boys has changed how we raise and educate boys.
Here's your chance to hear his new presentation!
Monday 26th September at Immanuel College Auditorium, Novar Gardens at 7.30 pm.
Bookings must be made in advance   Tickets $27.50
Book online at www.trybooking.com/ucf
For more information, contact
admin@youngmedia.org.au or phone 8376 2111


Spring Fair St Mark's Anglican Church, Corner The Golden Way and Wynn Vale Drive, Wynn Vale, is holding a Spring Fair on Saturday, 10th September, from 9.00am - 1.00pm.
Cakes, Trash and Treasure including furniture, Children’s toys, Books, Craft, Plants, Sausage Sizzle and Devonshire Teas will be available.
Car Boot Sale - contact 8396 0752.  All welcome.


Problems can’t always be solved but they can be managed. 

Church Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9.00am – 3.45pm
Church Web site: www.paravista.org.au