God won’t give you more than you can handle

God never said that #2
This Sunday we continue our new sermon series called ‘God never said that!’  We’re addressing some common myths of our Western culture that people hold to be true - and regularly quote to one another.  But what if the guidance you’re giving or receiving isn’t true? What if God never said that?

When people are reeling with the shock and trauma of tragic events, it’s amazing how we might tell our own experiences - or resort to schmaltzy clichés - to try and help people feel better.   Some examples:
“I know exactly how you feel!  Let me tell you about the time when…”
“Every cloud has a silver lining.”
“Don’t worry; whenever God closes a door, he opens a window.”
“God won’t give you more than you can handle.”

This last one is what we’ll be addressing on Sunday.  Come along to find out where people get this idea from, why it is inappropriate for those who are suffering and four reasons why God might allow more than we can handle. 

Hopefully we can be more helpful as we care for those who are hurting. 
Hopefully we can bring comfort as we show the compassion of Jesus.
Hopefully we can point people to God’s love for them in Jesus.

Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:1,5-13;  2 Corinthians 1:8-11          
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Igniting the Future Appeal
The IGNITING THE FUTURE appeal has been launched as part of our 50th Anniversary celebrations. Appeal packs have been prepared for all our members and if you didn’t collect yours from the hall after service, they were posted out earlier this week. If you do not receive a pack, please contact our office at churchenquiries@paravista.org.au or phone 8263 5087 and they will gladly post one out to you.

You can watch the clip used at the appeal launch at the following link- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YY_Ik2lFu7M This clip provides a helpful overview of the project and how it will help both our church and school communities make the most of the opportunities before us to share the good news of Jesus.

50th Anniversary
Reminder of dates:
Saturday Nov 5th social evening @ the church @7:30
Sunday Nov 6th celebratory church service at 10am followed by community lunch. Don’t forget to order your Anniversary wine. Keep an eye on the notice board in the hall for updated information.
 

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids is now on school holidays.  We will resume on Sunday 23rd October.  Enjoy your holidays! Activity folders will be available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children during the holidays.

Faith at Home
On the Kingdom Kids Display Board you will find a Taking Faith Home resource for the month of October that contains a month’s worth of daily bible readings.
Volunteer Recruitment Evening for the Children and Families Ministry
7 - 7.30pm Monday 10th October in the Education Centre/Library

Wine soft drinks and cheese will be available. Come along to find out how you can be involved as a volunteer in the Children and Family Ministry.

RSVP Friday 7th October to kliebig@paravista.org.au

Youth Ministry
We had a great night last Friday night for our last event for the term.  We looked at a clip from the original Karate Kid movie and this led to some fantastic discussions about trust, faith, obedience and service.  We played games based around this theme too and of course enjoyed a yummy supper.

Please remember to let me know if you can join us in the opening song for our 50th Anniversary Service on Sunday 6th November.  There will be one practice required on Thursday 3rd November.

Youth is a great way of being fed both spiritually and physically, with like-minded teens learning to own their own faith. We will then be having a break until Term 4, commencing on 21st October. We have a new starting time of 6.30pm; just for next term, as we have some quite significant events planned so a bit of extra time is needed.  It’s never too late to start coming along and making some great friendships and connections with fellow young Christians. Check out our term planner for term 4.

Further details regarding youth contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or mmertin@paravista.org.au

Combined North Eastern Lutheran Youth
We have a date for the next event – 19th November – so mark it in your diaries.

Prayer Requests:
Prayer requests are not included in the weekly news. If you would like to view the current requests refer to the email that alerted you to this weekly news. If you have a prayer request please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.

From the office

Urgent requirement
Assistance is required to move chairs in the complex for carpet cleaning on Tuesday 4 October at 10.30am to move the chairs out, and then Thursday 6 October 10.30am to move them back again.  Half an hour of time is all that is required.  Please mark your connect card with ‘chairs’ and date, send an email to churchenquiries@paravista.org.au or call the office 8263 5087 with your availability.

Hall Floor
The hall floor will be getting resurfaced on Tuesday 11th October.  The area will be closed to all traffic for a 24 hour period.

Maintenance Vacancy
Volunteers are required to assist in the following tasks:
•    Painting – Church and Manse.  Some spray painting involved.
•    Refixing eaves at the Manse.
•    Refixing batons on the Church.
•    Gutter maintenance – Church and Manse.
Please contact Stephen, the office on 8263 5087 or mark maintenance on your connect card to be able to actively improve the presentation of our facility.  All materials will be supplied.

Vacancy
An opportunity exists for respondents to any security alarm events needing attention at the church.  Alarm callouts are rare but when the need arises they need to be investigated to ensure a call out fee is not imposed. Please contact Stephen on szanker@paravista.org.au, the office on 8263 5087 or mark security on your connect card.

Call for nominations to School Council
Good Shepherd Lutheran School’s Governing Council consists of up to 10 members.  All members are active Christians, sensitive and in-tune with our school values, and represent both Lutheran and other Christian denominations.  Councillors serve a three year term.  The Council collectively brings expertise and experience in governance, strategic planning, law, finance, spirituality, education and marketing to our decision making and policy direction.

Vacancies exist in 2017 for Good Shepherd congregation members and also other Christians.  Preferably, experience in law or finance would be beneficial, but not essential.  Nomination Forms for School Council are available from the school or church office.  Please contact Council Chair Matt Schmidt (0412 357 558) m.schmidt@achper.com.au  for any further information.

Noticeboard

Professional Standards Workshop
A Professional Standards Workshop will be held here at the Salisbury Lutheran Church on Saturday 15th October between 9-4pm. Cost $35 per person. REGISTRATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL. Free Crèche available on the day. Please see Lyn or email (family@arckchurch.com.au) about the crèche. Please ring/email the office or email Lyn B if you are attending.

Be kind to one another

Ephesians 4:32

God wants you to be happy

God never said that #1
This Sunday we start a new sermon series called ‘God never said that!’ We love offering little nuggets of advice, support, or sympathy. They come in handy when we want people to feel better. But what if the guidance you’re giving or receiving just isn’t true? What if God never said that?

In this four-week series we will tackle some common myths about God, like “God wants you happy” or “God never gives you more than you can handle,” and how those myths keep us from having a deeper relationship with Him.

This Sunday we begin with the myth that God wants you to be happy. While God has nothing against us being happy, his priority for our lives is not our happiness. God has something better for us. God wants you more than happy. God wants you blessed!

Come along this Sunday and hear how being blessed is better than being happy. 

Bible Reading: 1 John 2:15-17, Matthew 5:1-12
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

New Lead pastor
Reid Matthias has accepted the call to be Lead Pastor at Para Vista. His commencement will be negotiated with Reid as he wants his daughters to complete their 2016 schooling in their present school. His ministry at PV would most likely commence mid-January.  We will keep the congregation informed.

We ask that you remember Reid, his wife Christine and daughters in your prayers as they commence the transition to ministry in Adelaide; we also ask that you pray for Noel and Bethany as Noel completes his ministry at PV.

Working Bee
The most unsightly garden area is our front garden on Montague Rd. This is public face to those passing or visiting. It is planned to upgrade this garden before our 50th celebrations. There is a Working Bee planned for Saturday 1st October commencing at 9:30am. This is a long weekend and Grand Final day but the plants we purchased can’t wait any longer to be planted.
Hopefully there will be enough members available on the 1st to enable the majority of plants to be planted.

Igniting the Future Appeal
Last Sunday we launched our IGNITING THE FUTURE appeal as part of our 50th Anniversary celebrations. Appeal packs have been prepared for all our members and these can be collected from the hall this Sunday. All packs not collected this week will be posted out. If you do not receive a pack, please contact our office at churchenquiries@paravista.org.au or phone 8263 5087.

You can watch the clip used at the appeal launch at the following link- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YY_Ik2lFu7M This clip provides a helpful overview of the project and how it will help both our church and school communities make the most of the opportunities before us to share the good news of Jesus.
 

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids is on this Sunday at our 10.30am service.  This Sunday our Kingdom Youth Year 5-7s will be staying in the service to worship with their families and witness their peers first Step Up to Communion.

Toddler Zone will not be available this week.

Activity folders will be available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during this service.

Faith at Home
On the Kingdom Kids Display Board you will find a Taking Faith Home resource for the month of October that contains a month’s worth of daily bible readings.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup has now finished for the term.  We will recommence week one next term.

Volunteer Recruitment Evening for the Children and Families Ministry
7 - 7.30pm Monday 10th October in the Education Centre/Library

Wine soft drinks and cheese will be available.
Come along to find out how you can be involved as a volunteer in the Children and Family Ministry.

RSVP Friday 7th October to kliebig@paravista.org.au

Youth Ministry
This coming Friday is our last event for the term.  There are some great discussions planned and we will be talking all about trust, obedience and service.  Looking forward to a great night of worship, fellowship and fun, and of course the much needed sustenance of supper!! Youth is a great way of being fed both spiritually and physically, with like-minded teens learning to own their own faith. We will then be having a break until Term 4, commencing on 21st October.

We have a new starting time of 6.30pm; just for next term, as we have some quite significant events planned so a bit of extra time is needed.  It’s never too late to start coming along and making some great friendships and connections with fellow young Christians.
Further details regarding youth contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or mmertin@paravista.org.au

Combined North Eastern Lutheran Youth
We have a date for the next event – 19th November – so mark it in your diaries.

Prayer Requests:
Prayer requests are not included in the weekly news. If you would like to view the current requests refer to the email that alerted you to this weekly news. If you have a prayer request please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.

From the office

Call for nominations to School Council
Good Shepherd Lutheran School’s Governing Council consists of up to 10 members.  All members are active Christians, sensitive and in-tune with our school values, and represent both Lutheran and other Christian denominations.  Councillors serve a three year term.  The Council collectively brings expertise and experience in governance, strategic planning, law, finance, spirituality, education and marketing to our decision making and policy direction.

Vacancies exist in 2017 for Good Shepherd congregation members and also other Christians.  Preferably, experience in law or finance would be beneficial, but not essential.  Nomination Forms for School Council are available from the school or church office.  Please contact Council Chair Matt Schmidt (0412 357 558) m.schmidt@achper.com.au  for any further information.

50th Anniversary
Reminder of dates:
Saturday Nov 5th social evening @ the church @7:30
Sunday Nov 6th celebratory church service at 10am followed by community lunch. Don’t forget to order you Anniversary wine. Keep an eye on the notice board in the hall for updated information

Budget 2016
January – August 2016
Total Offerings – Budget $337,750    Actual $326,806 UNDER $10,944
Budget Summary
January – July 2016
Total Income – Budget $316,612        Actual $311,740    UNDER $4,872
Total Expenses – Budget $309,089    Actual $300,432    UNDER $8,657
PROJECTED SURPLUS OF $4,685 FOR 2016

Notes
•    Offerings in August were $868 under budget with continued trend of REG above budget and Plate below budget.
•    The Sunday after the offerings email was sent to members, there was a small increase in plate offerings.
•    All Expense groups were in line with budget for July

Trusty Chair movers
Assistance is required to move chairs in the complex for carpet cleaning.  Half an hour of time is all that is required depending on volunteer numbers. Proposed times for requirement are Tuesday 4 October at 10.30am to move the chairs out and then Thursday 6 October 10.30am to move them back again. Use this as a chance to get to know someone else in the congregation and bring a friend to introduce them.

Please mark your connect card with ‘chairs’ and date, send an email to churchenquiries@paravista.org.au or call the office 8263 5087 with your availability

Hall Floor
The hall floor will be getting resurfaced on Tuesday 11th October.  The area will be closed to all traffic for a 24hour period.

Maintenance Vacancy
Volunteers are required to assist in the following tasks:
•    Painting – Church and Manse.  Some spray painting involved.
•    Refixing eaves at the Manse
•    Refixing batons on the Church
•    Gutter maintenance – Church and Manse.
Please contact Stephen, the office on 8263 5087 or mark maintenance on your connect card to be able to actively improve the presentation of our facility.  All materials will be supplied.

Vacancy
An opportunity exists for respondents to any security alarm events needing attention at the church.  Alarm call outs are rare but when the need arises they need to be investigated to ensure a call out fee is not imposed. Please contact Stephen on szanker@paravista.org.au, the office on 8263 5087 or mark security on your connect card.

Furniture surplus to requirement
A small number of tables are no longer required for use by playgroup.  Tables can be viewed at the rear of the hall.  If anyone has requirement or knowledge of someone in need please contact the office or Stephen on 8250 1690 or via churchenquiries@paravista.org.au

Noticeboard

Professional Standards Workshop
Venue Salisbury Luth. Church 10 Waterloo Corner Road
Date 15th October 2016 Time 9am-4pm (sign-in from 8:45am) Cost: $35 per person
REGISTRATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL! Please register online at www.sa.lca.org.au

A new workshop providing a coordinated & comprehensive approach to:
•    Health & Safety for congregations
•    Prevention of harassment, bullying & abuse
•    Complaints handling
•    ChildSafe Team Member
This is more than a replacement for Safe Place and ChildSafe training

The Fossils are in concert again this year supporting Lutheran Community Care

When: Saturday, 29 October from 7.30pm
Where: Concordia College, Highgate
Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Concession and Groups of 10+, $10 Children 4-14 years (under 4 free)
Visit trybooking.com/MIPU to book tickets. All proceeds will support families in SA and NT through emergency relief, homelessness support and foster care.

Hymnfest
Help us raise resounding voices in our festival of hymns, as we sing praise and enjoy fellowship - all for a great cause.
Sunday 25 September 2:00pm
Trinity Lutheran Church
Grand Junction Rd, Hope Valley
As always, admission is free. Besides the praise and worship, we’ll share about our work and take up a freewill offering for Get the Word Out to South Africa. Funds will go to Bible Society projects, including a discipleship course through the South African prison system and Bible-based literacy courses for disadvantaged children.

For details or enquiries please contact Steve Bengtsson at steve.bengtsson@biblesociety.org.au
or by calling 8292 4804 or 0400 220 416

My comfort in my suffering is this:

Your promise preserves my life.

Psalm 119:50

Getting past your personal failures

Getting past your past - Part 4.

Looking back over our lives, we all have regrets over things we wish we hadn't done.  Our attitudes, words, and actions may have damaged others – as well as ourselves. 

Knowing that we’ve hurt people and disappointed God, it can be hard to move on.  Feelings of failure and guilt can weigh heavy.  If left unresolved, a deep sense of shame can creep into our inner world where we assume that we are unclean, unworthy, and unacceptable to God.

You may think that some of your past sins are too big and too terrible for God to forgive… that there is no hope for you. 

Perhaps when you hear the words of forgiveness declared at a worship service, you think: "That's good for everyone else, but not for me...not after what I've done.  How God can forgive me when I can't forgive myself?"

If looking back, you are still feeling the weight of failure, guilt, or shame, then Sunday’s message is for you: Getting past your personal failures. 

Jesus promises: “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36 NIV)

Bible Readings:
John 18:15-18, 25-27; 21:15-19 Peter fails – Jesus restores him.
1 Timothy 1:12-17 Paul’s summary of his failure – and God’s restoring grace.

Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Prayer Requests:
Prayer requests are not included in the weekly news. If you would like to view the current requests refer to the email that alerted you to this weekly news. If you have a prayer request please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.
 

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids is on this Sunday at our 10.30am service.  Toddler Zone will not be available this week.

Kingdom Youth and Family Shared Lunch
This Sunday our Kingdom Youth Year 5-7s will be having their last session for this term with a shared lunch afterwards with their families at 12 and we aim to finish up around 12.30pm.  Parents and carers of Kingdom Youth please bring a plate of finger food to share.  Serviettes and tea/coffee/cordial will be provided. Activity folders will be available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during this service.

Faith at Home
On the Kingdom Kids Display Board you will find a Taking Faith Home resource for the month of September that contains a month’s worth of daily bible readings.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Next week will be our last Playgroup for this term due to the school using the hall for their musical the following week.  Come and join us for Playgroup on Wednesday mornings at 9.15am in the church hall.  Come on over straight after dropping off the kids at school.  Join other Mums and Dads and Grandies for a coffee and chat with activities for the little ones.

Youth Ministry
Last Friday night we had the pleasure of Jason Wain entertaining us with a great motivational talk explaining that we are the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:14) and not to be hidden away, and then there is nothing that “will be able separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:39).  Jason used two very powerful sporting moments to highlight these two verses.  We then had some great small group discussion time around this.  Of course we had some awesome fun times and games and naturally ate some too. 

Our youth band led us for worship, which was very exciting, and then the youth band led us in worship on Sunday.  Very exciting times in youth!!! See you next Friday for our last event.
Further details regarding youth contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or mmertin@paravista.org.au

Combined North Eastern Lutheran Youth
We have a date for the next event – 19th November – so mark it in your diaries.

From the office

Furniture surplus to requirement
A small number of tables are no longer required for use by playgroup.  Tables can be viewed at the rear of the hall.  If anyone has requirement or knowledge of someone in need please contact the office or Stephen on 8250 1690 or via churchenquiries@paravista.org.au

50th Anniversary
Reminder of dates:
Saturday Nov 5th social evening @ the church @7:30
Sunday Nov 6th celebratory church service at 10am followed by community lunch. Don’t forget to order you Anniversary wine. Keep an eye on the notice board in the hall for updated information

Board 2017
The Board is looking forward to 2017. We are always seeking new members to serve on the Board. The Board meets monthly and deals with matters such as finance, facilities, policies, In formation systems and welfare of staff.
We are still seeking someone who would be prepared to serve as congregational chair. Responsibilities are:
•    preside at meetings of the Church Council and the Congregation;
•    ensure that all elected and appointed officers and committees effectively carry out their assigned duties and generally encourage and cooperate with all office bearers
•    ensure that an agenda is prepared for the meetings of the Church Council and the Congregation
•    submit a report to the Annual General Meeting of the Congregation.
If you are interested in finding out more information please contact John Dolling 83675296.

September Board report
•    the Board chair position for 2017 was discussed.
•    It was decided to offer our existing altar furniture to Golden Grove congregation
•    Extra money (up to $2000 from Asset Replacement Ac) allocated  to complete new church furniture.
•    Policies needing updating were identified
•    Report on street sign – hopefully back in action  by end of the month
•    Preliminary discussion on 2017 budget

Synod report
Report on District Synod held earlier in the year at Loxton available from church office

Noticeboard
Professional Standards Workshop
Venue Salisbury Luth. Church 10 Waterloo Corner Road
Date 15th October 2016 Time 9am-4pm (sign-in from 8:45am) Cost: $35 per person
REGISTRATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL! Please register online at www.sa.lca.org.au

A new workshop providing a coordinated & comprehensive approach to:
•    Health & Safety for congregations
•    Prevention of harassment, bullying & abuse
•    Complaints handling
•    ChildSafe Team Member
This is more than a replacement for Safe Place and ChildSafe training

Lutheran Community Care
Adelaide: Looking for enthusiastic volunteers to work at Payneham Op Shop
We are currently in need of volunteers to help at our Payneham Op Shop, located at 236 Payneham Road. We are looking for people available on Monday and Wednesday to help in the shop during opening hours from 10.00am-3.00pm.

If you have some time to spare and would like to join a friendly team of volunteers contact Di at 08 8269 9300.

Barossa: Volunteers needed for bread delivery
Lutheran Community Care are seeking one or more volunteers to collect bread from Nuriootpa Foodland 2 mornings per week (Monday and Thursday) and deliver it to the LCC office on Second St.  For more information, please contact Helen Walker on 8562 2688 or hwalker@lccare.org.au

The Fossils are in concert again this year supporting Lutheran Community Care

When: Saturday, 29 October from 7.30pm
Where: Concordia College, Highgate
Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Concession and Groups of 10+, $10 Children 4-14 years (under 4 free)
Visit trybooking.com/MIPU to book tickets. All proceeds will support families in SA and NT through emergency relief, homelessness support and foster care.

Hymnfest
Help us raise resounding voices in our festival of hymns, as we sing praise and enjoy fellowship - all for a great cause.
Sunday 25 September 2:00pm
Trinity Lutheran Church
Grand Junction Rd, Hope Valley
As always, admission is free. Besides the praise and worship, we’ll share about our work and take up a freewill offering for Get the Word Out to South Africa. Funds will go to Bible Society projects, including a discipleship course through the South African prison system and Bible-based literacy courses for disadvantaged children.

For details or enquiries please contact Steve Bengtsson at steve.bengtsson@biblesociety.org.au or by calling 8292 4804 or 0400 220 416

We are sad, but we are always full of joy.

2 Corinthians 6:10

Restoring Broken Relationships

Getting past your past #3

This week we continue our sermon series ‘Getting past your past’. Some of the biggest regrets we have in life are our broken relationships that we’ve not been able to reconcile. Broken relationships cause us incredible pain and stress that doesn’t magically go away with time. Some of us are living with the pain of a broken relationship that occurred years ago.

Getting past your past involves both forgiving those who hurt you; and you asking forgiveness from you who have hurt. When teaching on relationships, Jesus made it very clear that restoring broken relationships should be a priority in our lives. In fact Jesus teaches that making peace with another person who has something against you should take priority over worshipping God.

This Sunday we will look at why making peace with others is so important to Jesus and how we can apologise with integrity. Learning to apologise well is vital for broken relationships to be restored as a poor apology can often make things worse.

If you can use some help restoring a broken relationship then join us this Sunday for worship.

Bible Reading: Matthew 5:21-26
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Prayer Requests:
Prayer requests are not included in the weekly news. If you would like to view the current requests refer to the email that alerted you to this weekly news. If you have a prayer request please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.

Special Screening ‘Miracles From Heaven’
Sunday September 11th 4-6PM
Our follow up movie afternoon from War Room - Miracles from Heaven is an equally compelling movie based on a true story.

Miracles from Heaven is a 2016 American Christian drama film directed by Patricia Riggen and written by Randy Brown. It recounts the true story of a young girl who had a near-death experience and was later cured of an incurable disease.

 

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids will be on again this Sunday at our 10.30am service.  Our Kingdom Youth Year 5-7s will be staying in worship with their families.

Toddler Zone
Toddler Zone for our 10 month – 3 year olds will be available this week.  This term we will be operating every other week.

Activity folders will be available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during this service.

Faith at Home
At the Kingdom Kids sign in desk and in the Parenting Room you will find a Taking Faith Home resource for the month of September that contains a month’s worth of daily bible readings.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Come and join us for Playgroup on Wednesday mornings at 9.15am in the church hall.  Come on over straight after dropping off the kids at school.  Join other Mums and Dads and Grandies for a coffee and chat with activities for the little ones.

Youth Ministry
This Friday is youth event night.  We are really excited to have a special guest speaker on Friday night.  There will be a time of worship, some discussion times, games and of course food.  We look forward to seeing you all there at 7.00pm. Further details regarding youth contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or mmertin@paravista.org.au

Combined North Eastern Lutheran Youth
We have a date for the next event – 19th November – so mark it in your diaries.

Maranatha Health
You are invited to celebrate our blessings with Maranatha Health
Saturday 17 September, 10am-12pm
Philps Reserve, Glynburn Rd, Leabrook

We want to say a big 'thank you' to Maranatha Health supporters, welcome new supporters, and tell you all the latest stories and developments of our projects in Uganda – with special guests, the Findlays.

Bring along a chair or picnic rug and join us for a family friendly morning of live music and morning refreshments (brunch), with traditional Ethiopian coffee and espresso coffee for sale. Browse at the market stalls of homemade, African and other goods, with all proceeds to support the work of Maranatha Health.

Please be part of the celebration and invite your family and friends!
RSVP for catering purposes to contact@maranathahealth.org

Maranatha Health Spring Stall - After services Sunday 11th September
Spring is just around the corner! You are invited to celebrate the blessings of spring by sharing your blessings with others. Join us after services in the hall and or courtyard (depending on weather) for a Spring Goods and Gifts Stall, with all proceeds to support the work of Maranatha Health. We'd love you to gather some goodies from your garden, kitchen, craft corner or shed to make the stall a diverse delight for all (please include an ingredients list if you provide baked goods). Tax deductible donations are always welcome too.

Maranatha Health exists to bless others and bring life - be a part of the blessing this spring!
For more information contact Keren keren.sutton@maranathahealth.org

From the office

Office Closure
The Church Office will be closed on Thursday 15th September between 9 and 12:30pm for staff training.  We will reopen at 1:30pm

Furniture surplus to requirement
A small number of tables are no longer required for use by playgroup.  Tables can be viewed at the rear of the hall.  If anyone has requirement or knowledge of someone in need please contact the office or Stephen on 8250 1690 or via churchenquiries@paravista.org.au

Noticeboard

Professional Standards Workshop
Venue Salisbury Luth. Church 10 Waterloo Corner Road
Date 15th October 2016 Time 9am-4pm (sign-in from 8:45am) Cost: $35 per person
REGISTRATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL! Please register online at www.sa.lca.org.au

A new workshop providing a coordinated & comprehensive approach to:
•    Health & Safety for congregations
•    Prevention of harassment, bullying & abuse
•    Complaints handling
•    ChildSafe Team Member
This is more than a replacement for Safe Place and ChildSafe training

The name of the LORD is a fortified tower;
the righteous run to it and are safe.

Proverbs 18:10

Getting past your past - Part 2.

Forgiving those who hurt you

Since all of us are imperfect people, at times we will offend or hurt one another. When you’re on the receiving end of that, how do you usually deal with it?

What we do with that hurt will either enslave us in bitterness; or release us into freedom.  And it all depends on forgiveness. 

Yes, forgiveness always comes at a cost. 
But the cost of unforgiveness is much greater! 

Bitterness from hurts of the past is like dragging around a rotting carcase. Sure, we can put on a mask and pretend we’re doing well.  But like spraying air freshener, it doesn’t deal with the cause!   Unless we deal with those hurts, they keep fouling up our relationship with God, and tainting our relationships with others.

Jesus didn’t just talk about forgiveness - he lived it!  By the presence of Jesus in us, we can do the same!  This Sunday’s theme: Forgiving those who hurt you.

Come along and let Jesus free you from hurts of the past. “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36 NIV)

Bible Reading: Matthew 18:21-35
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Prayer Requests:
Prayer requests are not included in the weekly news. If you would like to view the current requests refer to the email that alerted you to this weekly news. If you have a prayer request please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.

Call Meeting outcome
Last Sunday 99 people who call Good Shepherd their church home attended the Call meeting to decide who to call to be our new Lead Pastor. After an explanation of the process used by the Call Team to reach its recommendation and prayer lead by Bishop David, the meeting voted unanimously to issue a call to Reid Matthias to be our new Lead Pastor

Special Screening ‘Miracles From Heaven’
Sunday September 11th 4-6PM
Our follow up movie afternoon from War Room - Miracles from Heaven is an equally compelling movie based on a true story.

Miracles from Heaven is a 2016 American Christian drama film directed by Patricia Riggen and written by Randy Brown. It recounts the true story of a young girl who had a near-death experience and was later cured of an incurable disease.
 

Kingdom Kids
This Sunday is Fathers’ Day and we will be having an activity for the children during the message at the 10.30 service in the hall.  Our Kingdom Youth will be preparing and serving morning tea to Dads after the service.  We would love to see you there!

Activity folders will be available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during this service.

Faith at Home
At the Kingdom Kids sign in desk and in the Parenting Room you will find a Taking Faith Home resource for the month of September that contains a month’s worth of daily bible readings.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Come and join us for Playgroup on Wednesday mornings at 9.15am in the church hall.  Come on over straight after dropping off the kids at school.  Join other Mums and Dads and Grandies for a coffee and chat with activities for the little ones.

Kathy Liebig
Children and Family Support Worker

Youth Ministry
Last Friday night we had a great informal time of worship and sharing and those that came along shared their favourite songs with us and we had an awesome time of free discussion and singing. 

We played a few board games which provided many, many laughs and some great hidden talents of drawing!! Next Friday we will be entertained by our guest speaker, so we are all excited on what will be presented. Further details regarding youth contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or mmertin@paravista.org.au

Combined North Eastern Lutheran Youth
Last Saturday we again had a fantastic group of 50 youth from the four different Lutheran youth groups in the local area come along for a fun filled day. The young people participated in an Amazing Race and we put them through the rounds of matching socks, keeping balloons airborne, a bible quiz, a playground routine, kicking soccer goals, doing some shopping and finishing off through an obstacle course. 

They actually had to leave the grounds and navigate their way around the local venues.  After 2 ½ hours some very tired young troupers returned to a nourishing dinner.  This was followed by a fantastic message on being a team player and who delivers our ultimate victory, delivered by Pastor Greg Fowler from Golden Grove. 

To top that off we had our very own leaders from all youth groups forming an awesome sounding band to finish our worship.  A great day had by all.  Stay tuned for details on our next NELY joint event on November 19th!!

Margot Mertin
Ministry Team Leader

Maranatha Health
You are invited to celebrate our blessings with Maranatha Health
Saturday 17 September, 10am-12pm
Philps Reserve, Glynburn Rd, Leabrook

We want to say a big 'thank you' to Maranatha Health supporters, welcome new supporters, and tell you all the latest stories and developments of our projects in Uganda – with special guests, the Findlays.

Bring along a chair or picnic rug and join us for a family friendly morning of live music and morning refreshments (brunch), with traditional Ethiopian coffee and espresso coffee for sale. Browse at the market stalls of homemade, African and other goods, with all proceeds to support the work of Maranatha Health.

Please be part of the celebration and invite your family and friends!
RSVP for catering purposes to contact@maranathahealth.org

Maranatha Health Spring Stall - After services Sunday 11th September
Spring is just around the corner! You are invited to celebrate the blessings of spring by sharing your blessings with others. Join us after services in the hall and or courtyard (depending on weather) for a Spring Goods and Gifts Stall, with all proceeds to support the work of Maranatha Health. We'd love you to gather some goodies from your garden, kitchen, craft corner or shed to make the stall a diverse delight for all (please include an ingredients list if you provide baked goods). Tax deductible donations are always welcome too.

Maranatha Health exists to bless others and bring life - be a part of the blessing this spring!
For more information contact Keren keren.sutton@maranathahealth.org

Para Vista Women's Fellowship
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, September 6th @ 1pm
WHERE: Good Shepherd Hall
WHO:  June Barring
TOPIC: Breast Cancer
All are very welcome to attend.

From the office

LED Sign
Due to the technical difficulties we have been having with the electronic componentry of the LED sign on Montague Road since installation, the installation company One World LED has decided to remove the sign casings to be taken to a workshop for repairs.  Repairs to date have not been satisfactory and further work cannot be completed onsite and will need to be done in a workshop. At this stage we do not have a completion date.  

Thank you
To the volunteers who helped mulch all the garden waste for the front garden beds and levelled the garden beds in preparation for planting. 

Vacancy
An opportunity exists for respondents to any security alarm events needing investigation at the church.  Please contact Stephen on szanker@paravista.org.au, the office on 8263 5087 or mark security on your connect card if you are able to assist.

Noticeboard

Professional Standards Workshop
Venue Salisbury Luth. Church 10 Waterloo Corner Road
Date 15th October 2016 Time 9am-4pm (sign-in from 8:45am) Cost: $35 per person
REGISTRATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL! Please register online at www.sa.lca.org.au

A new workshop providing a coordinated & comprehensive approach to:
•    Health & Safety for congregations
•    Prevention of harassment, bullying & abuse
•    Complaints handling
•    ChildSafe Team Member
This is more than a replacement for Safe Place and ChildSafe training

Lutheran Media
You are invited to the Lutheran Media 70th Anniversary High Tea to celebrate 70 years of communicating Christ.  Come along and hear Jayne Lochert, radio host of Coffee O’Clock on Life FM share her insights and listen to talented Lutheran musicians.

Join us for an afternoon of fun food and friendship as we hear how media may be used to reach out to people in the future.  The event is on the 18th September from 2pm to 5pm at the Pavilion on the Park, South Terrace, Adelaide. Tickets are $49 per person Phone 1800 353 350 or go to www.lutheranmedia.org.au  to order online

Do everything in love.

1 Corinthians 16:14