Thank God for second chances!

This Sunday we continue to unpack the story of Jonah in our worship series: Growing God’s heart for ALL people.
Jonah rejected God’s command to go to Nineveh, and ended up having a three day ‘spiritual retreat’ inside a huge fish. After getting spewed up onto dry land, the word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time: “Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.” (Jonah 3:1-2 NIV)

The LORD did not give up on Jonah – or on the people of Nineveh.  The LORD spared them and gave them a second chance.  

Have you ever messed up so bad – and felt so guilt ridden and ashamed that you wondered whether God was finished with you? 

Truth is God never gives up on you!  Jesus is God’s lifeline of grace, redemption and hope.  In Christ, we have a future in God’s good plans! 

Jesus came into the world to save sinners – people who’ve messed up in all sorts of ways – just like Jonah, just like me, just like you… and just like every other person on this planet.

Thank God for second chances! 

Bible Readings: Jonah 3
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.

Step Up
Our Step Up - Preparing for First Communion in 2017 program will commence this Sunday 20th August with a shared family lunch.  If your child is now in year 5 or about 10 years of age they are welcome to participate.  If you would like to register your child for Step Up, please ring the church office on 8263 5087 or email your details to churchenquiries@paravista.org.au by August 18th.

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids will be available this Sunday at our 10.30am service for Reception – Year 7s.  Please note that due to the Step Up luncheon we will not be providing lunch for our Kingdom Youth so please come and collect them at 12 sharp from the OSCH room in the school.  Thank you.  Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them in the narthex.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Face Book page!  To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup has now moved back to the church hall.  Due to the chilly winter mornings we will be adjusting our start time to 10am finishing round 11.30am on Wednesdays.  Please bring pre-cut fruit to share.  Join other Mums and Dads and Grandies for a coffee and chat with activities for the little ones.

Youth Ministry
Last Friday night we looked in depth at the parable of The Rich Young Man and established what is really important to us and where Jesus fits into that.  On Monday we served at Meet’n’Eat and this was very rewarding for all those who came along and served.  We will be looking at making this a regular event, a great way of giving back to our community. Our next event will be next Friday 25th August.

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

NELY (North Eastern Lutheran Youth)
Our next exciting event is scheduled for Saturday 26th August and will be held at St Paul, Blair Athol.  It will be a day of gameshow fun, friendship, fellowship and food.  Event is open to all young people in school years 5 to 12.  Cost is $15 to cover dinner, snacks and hours of fun.  Tickets must be purchased prior to the event.  These are on sale now until 23rd August via www.nely260817.eventbrite.com.au Looking forward to seeing you all then.  Any further queries plase contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814.

Maranatha Health
It's blooming wonderful to celebrate Maranatha Health with you at our Spring Party!
Saturday 16 September
10am-12pm (presentation at 10:45am)
Knightsbridge Baptist Church Hall & Garden, 455 Glynburn Rd, Leabrook SA

Delicious morning refreshments (brunch) provided, with traditional Ethiopian coffee and espresso coffee for sale. Enjoy live music, lawn games and peruse market stalls for homemade, African and original wares for sale (proceeds to MH).

This event is a thank you to our supporters, a welcome to new supporters, and a chance for to hear about the latest developments in Uganda.

BYO rugs or chairs
Gold coin donation
Please RSVP for catering purposes (incl. dietary needs) 12 September contact@maranathahealth.org

Notice Board

Winter Appeal – Donate and Give Hope
This winter we are asking you to donate and give hope to those who need it most. 
Many of the people that Lutheran Community Care meets are homeless and they urgently need assistance this winter. Not only have they survived the circumstances which have resulted in homelessness, the isolation they often experience adds a further burden and getting support can be difficult. With your help, we can help people get back on their feet and experience hope again.  Please visit www.lccare.org.au or phone 8269 9333 to make a donation.  All donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

Employment and Volunteer opportunities at the LCA
Employment
Project Coordinator - Lutheran Community Care, Blair Athol SA
Education Leader - Lutheran Schools Association SA, NT & WA, North Adelaide SA
youth ministry coordinator - St Michael's Lutheran Church, Hahndorf SA

Volunteer’s role:
Overseas Mission
Photographers

Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

Lutheran Homes Glynde Spring Fair 2017
is on Saturday 9th SEPTEMBER, from 9.00am till lunchtime at 22 Avenue Road Glynde.
Stalls include Biscuits and Cakes, Books, CD’s, Craft, Jams & Chutneys, Jewellery, Plants and Toys  plus Devonshire Tea and continuous Sausage Sizzle.

Proceeds go to LHI Resident Care Facility projects at Glynde. If you have any questions or donations for the fair please contact Marion Schubert 8336 4361

https://www.growministries.org.au/

Faith can move mountains

Matthew 17:20

When you’re down, look up!

Last Sunday we kicked off our new series: Growing God’s heart for ALL people. Over four weeks, we are looking at the story of Jonah and asking God to help us see ALL people through his eyes.

God gave Jonah a mission, but Jonah ran in the opposite direction. Things got rough and Jonah ended up inside a huge fish. Jonah gets to have a “three day spiritual retreat” – a time to reflect and pray. 

No doubt it was a traumatic experience. Yet Jonah cries out to the LORD; and the LORD listened to his cry and saved him. Jonah discovers there’s no place beyond God’s reach. 

We see this repeated over and over again in Scripture, especially in the ministry of Jesus. When people turned to Jesus for help, Jesus reached out to them and saved them.  Through his death and resurrection, the same thing happens to us.  

When you and I are overwhelmed, take a leaf from Jonah’s book: When you’re down, look up!  

Bible Readings:   Jonah 2 (For similar prayers when people were overwhelmed,
see Psalm 18:1-7, 16-17, Psalm 69:1-4, 13-18) 
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.

Step Up
Our Step Up - Preparing for First Communion in 2017 program will commence on Sunday 20th August.  If your child is now in year 5 or about 10 years of age they are welcome to participate.  If you would like to register your child for Step Up, please ring the church office on 8263 5087 or email your details to churchenquiries@paravista.org.au by August 18th.

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids will be available this Sunday at our 10.30am service for 10 month olds – Year 1.  Kool Zone will not be available this Sunday.  Kingdom Youth will be staying in to worship with their families.  We look forward to seeing you!

Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them in the narthex.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Face Book page!  To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup has now moved back to the church hall.  Due to the chilly winter mornings we will be adjusting our start time to 10am finishing round 11.30am on Wednesdays.  Please bring pre-cut fruit to share.  Join other Mums and Dads and Grandies for a coffee and chat with activities for the little ones.

Youth Ministry
NELY (North Eastern Lutheran Youth)
Our next exciting event is scheduled for Saturday 26th August and will be held at St Paul, Blair Athol.  It will be a day of gameshow fun, friendship, fellowship and food.  Event is open to all young people in school years 5 to 12.  Cost is $15 to cover dinner, snacks and hours of fun.  Tickets must be purchased prior to the event.  These are on sale now until 23rd August via www.nely260817.eventbrite.com.au Looking forward to seeing you all then.  Any further queries plase contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814.

From the Office

Good Shepherd Representative
The next General Convention of Synod for the Lutheran Church of Australia will be held at Rosehill Gardens in western Sydney from 2nd to 7th October 2018. The LCA’s 19th general synod will feature the theme 50.500 faith.freedom.future.  If you wish to represent our congregation at this gathering please contact Stephen or the front office on 08 8263 5087 or email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au for further information.  Alternatively please mark your connect card with “Convention”

Ignite the Future building update
The steel works have been completed and signed off by the engineers.  Work has commenced on the roofing section above the narthex and by print time should be completed.  Timber framing for the remaining roofing structure and walls has commenced.  Take time to view the progress through the cut out in the corridor doors or through the glass panel in the door at the rear of the hall.

Finance Report
Offerings
January - July  2017
Total Offerings – Budget $299,500    Actual $305,662    Surplus $6,150

Budget Summary
January – June 2017
Total Income – Budget $286,550        Actual $288,755    Surplus $2,205
Total Expenses – Budget $269,678    Actual $265,299    Deficit $4,379

Notes since last Board meeting:
•    July offerings were well above Budget, with plate offerings on 3 Sundays well above expectations. 
•    Offerings are now $6,150 above budget.
•    Income is slightly over budget due to Interest received over budget.
•    Most Expenditure lines continue to be maintained below budget. 

Ignite Budget Update
•    We received $3,600 in July for the Ignite the Future building fund and with what has already received in August there is currently now only $312 still to be received.  Thank you to all who have honoured their pledge for the Ignite project.
•    Donations for the Ignite project are still appreciated as there are fittings and furnishings still required to make the new area hospitable.

Donations to the Ignite building project can be made via:
The collection plate in an envelope marked Ignite Project, or
Direct debit  BSB: 704 942  Account: 154796  Account Name: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.

Wine and Cheese Night
We are bringing the Cellar Door to school on Saturday 26th August from 7.00pm.
Ticket includes complimentary arrival glass of wine, feasting on a magnificent grazing table filled with an impressive selection of produce, together with acoustic tunes, plus on the night purchase raffle tickets to be in the running to win some amazing prizes. Boutique beers, Cellar door wines and soft drinks can be purchased on the night!

We appreciate your assistance in spreading the word and supporting this community school event to raise funds for school projects together fostering fellowship in the community. Tickets on sale now, $25 per person.

Enquiries / ticket sales to Sharon at school 8264 7966 or email admin@gspv.sa.edu.au 

Notice Board

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

Winter Appeal – Donate and Give Hope
This winter we are asking you to donate and give hope to those who need it most. 
Many of the people that Lutheran Community Care meets are homeless and they urgently need assistance this winter. Not only have they survived the circumstances which have resulted in homelessness, the isolation they often experience adds a further burden and getting support can be difficult. With your help, we can help people get back on their feet and experience hope again.  Please visit www.lccare.org.au or phone 8269 9333 to make a donation.  All donations over $2 are tax deductible.


Employment and Volunteer opportunities at the LCA
Employment
Chief Executive Officer
Business Director

Volunteer’s role:
Overseas Mission
Photographers

Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

https://www.growministries.org.au/

“Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh;

is anything too difficult for Me?”

Jeremiah 32:27

Growing God’s heart for ALL people

What comes to mind when you hear the name “Jonah”?  Maybe: “Whale”?  

Lots of people know about Jonah – the prophet who hears from God but refuses to do what God tells him.  As spectators of the story, we can easily look down on Jonah: “What is Jonah hoping to achieve by running away from the LORD?  Doesn’t he know that’s impossible? Who does he think he is?” 

But then the story draws us in – as participants.  Like Jonah, we find ourselves trying to keep God at a comfortable distance.  We want God’s blessing for ourselves; but not for those who are different from us – or those who may be hostile to us.  Like Jonah, we want them to ‘get what they deserve’.

Hmmm.  What would happen if God gave us what we deserve? 

Go to the cross... that’s where Jesus took what we deserved.  Was it only for you and me?  No, it was for ALL.   For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16 NIV)

The LORD wants to help Jonah - and us - see ALL people through his eyes: as objects of his love and compassion. As we explore the story of Jonah over the next four weeks, my prayer is for us to be Growing God’s heart for ALL people.
Part one this Sunday: You can run, but you can’t hide. 

Bible Readings:   Jonah 1:1-17.  (For background, please read 2 Kings 14:23-29.  Jesus also refers to Jonah in Matthew 12:38-41, and Matthew 16:1-4.) 
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.

Step Up
Our Step Up - Preparing for First Communion in 2017 program will commence on Sunday 20th August.  If your child is now in year 5 or about 10 years of age they are welcome to participate.  If you would like to register your child for Step Up, please ring the church office on 8263 5087 or email your details to churchenquiries@paravista.org.au by August 18th.

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids will begin for Term 3 this Sunday at our 10.30am service.  Available for children who attend Kindy – Year 7.  We look forward to seeing you!

Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them in the narthex.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Face Book page!  To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup has now moved back to the church hall.  Due to the chilly winter mornings we will be adjusting our start time to 10am finishing round 11.30am on Wednesdays.  Please bring pre cut fruit to share.  Join other Mums and Dads and Grandies for a coffee and chat with activities for the little ones.

Youth Ministry
Our first event for the term was held last Friday night.  We looked in depth at the parable of The Lost Sheep and how it relates to our everyday life in today’s society.  We “lost” some sheep during the night, we studied the parable, we found our rhythm as a flock and we even ate some “sheep”.  It was a really enjoyable night and a good time was had by all.  Our next event will be held on Friday 11th August.  Love to see you all there and bring along a friend or two.  We are also holding a service event and encouraging as many young people as possible to come along to Meet’n’Eat on Monday night 14th August to serve.  This is a great way to give back to the community, so if interested please have your young person/people at the school gym by 6.15pm.  Hope to see a lot of familiar faces there.
Further details regarding youth contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or mmertin@paravista.org.au

NELY (North Eastern Lutheran Youth)
Our next exciting event is scheduled for Saturday 26th August and will be held at St Paul, Blair Athol.  It will be a day of gameshow fun, friendship, fellowship and food.  Event is open to all young people in school years 5 to 12.  Cost is $15 to cover dinner, snacks and hours of fun.  Tickets must be purchased prior to the event.  These are on sale now until 23rd August via www.nely260817.eventbrite.com.au Looking forward to seeing you all then.  Any further queries plase contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814.

From the Office

The 2017 ALWS (Australian Lutheran World Service)
Annual Report has been received at the Office and has news relevant to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Para Vista.  If you wish to view this copy please contact the office.

Wine and Cheese Night
We are bringing the Cellar Door to school on Saturday 26th August from 7.00pm.
Ticket includes complimentary arrival glass of wine, feasting on a magnificent grazing table filled with an impressive selection of produce, together with acoustic tunes, plus on the night purchase raffle tickets to be in the running to win some amazing prizes. Boutique beers, Cellar door wines and soft drinks can be purchased on the night!

We appreciate your assistance in spreading the word and supporting this community school event to raise funds for school projects together fostering fellowship in the community. Tickets on sale now, $25 per person.

Enquiries / ticket sales to Sharon at school 8264 7966 or email admin@gspv.sa.edu.au  

Notice Board

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

All Things New Sala Exhibition by the Department of Visual Arts
This is a display of beautiful art works by many artists, in the St Stephens hall, as well as a display in the Church.  Paraments from St Stephens and Dernancourt will be displayed around the Church.

The opening is on Sunday 6th August at 2pm by Rev Adrian Kitson. This will also be the launch of the new Visual Arts website by Linda Macqueen. The exhibition runs on Saturday and Sunday, 1-4pm for the month of August.

Winter Appeal – Donate and Give Hope
This winter we are asking you to donate and give hope to those who need it most. 
Many of the people that Lutheran Community Care meets are homeless and they urgently need assistance this winter. Not only have they survived the circumstances which have resulted in homelessness, the isolation they often experience adds a further burden and getting support can be difficult. With your help, we can help people get back on their feet and experience hope again.  Please visit www.lccare.org.au or phone 8269 9333 to make a donation.  All donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Employment and Volunteer opportunities at the LCA

Employment
Chief Executive Officer
Business Director

Volunteer’s role:
Overseas Mission
Photographers

Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

https://www.growministries.org.au/

“Love one another with brotherly affection.

Out do one another in showing honor.”

Romans 12:10

God of Wonders

Jesus is accused of all sorts of things in the Gospel stories, but perhaps there is nothing quite as stark as what the Jews call him in John 8.  “Aren’t we right in in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?”

Unbelievably, these are the same people at the beginning of the passage who are described as ‘Jews who believe in him!’  But Jesus, in the book of John, has this way of offending almost everyone he comes into contact with - especially those who presume to be more religious.  It is these ‘Jesus-believing-Jews’ who have yet to understand what God’s glory really looks like. It’s not about who they are or who they are descended from, it’s about God the Father and his word that Jesus obeys.

Last week we unearthed a discussion about what we encounter in scripture and how we encounter it, but this week we see how God’s glory is bound up in the Living Word, Jesus Christ.  Here are a couple of questions we’ll be looking at in depth in John 8:31-59:
1.    What is glory?  Why is it important?
2.    Why does God seek it for Himself?  Doesn’t he already have it?
3.    What does Jesus mean by, ‘whoever obeys my word will never see death?’ What word is this?
4.    Lastly, we have been following the path that Luther’s theology sets up for us, ‘By grace we are saved by faith in Christ Jesus who we encounter in the scriptures for the glory of God alone,’ but what is at the heart of our path of salvation?

Come along and find strength and hope in God’s glory!

Bible Readings:  Psalm 19:1-4; John 8:48-58
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.

Step Up
Our Step Up - Preparing for First Communion in 2017 program will commence on Sunday 20th August.  If your child is now in year 5 or about 10 years of age they are welcome to participate.  If you would like to register your child for Step Up, please ring the church office on 8263 5087 or email your details to churchenquiries@paravista.org.au by August 18th.

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids will be staying in worship with their families this week as one of our families will be leading worship. We will be encouraging and supporting them as they serve in this special way.  Kingdom Kids will resume next Sunday 6th August at our 10.30am service.

Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them in the narthex.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Face Book page!  To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup has now moved back to the church hall.  We thank Tony for kindly allowing us to use the OSCH space during the hall renovations.  We will keep to our 9.30am time slot on a Wednesday for now.  Please bring pre-cut fruit to share.  Join other Mums and Dads and Grandies for a coffee and chat with activities for the little ones.

Youth Ministry
Welcome back to term 3! Our first event for the term is this Friday night starting at 7pm.  This term we are going to be looking at Jesus – Who Am I? What does it mean for us as individuals to live in Christ?  It will be a great fun filled night looking at what the parable of the lost sheep really means in relation to Who Am I in Jesus.  Bring your bibles, your sense of adventure and your friends. Cost is $2 to cover the cost of supper.

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

NELY (North Eastern Lutheran Youth)
Our next exciting event is scheduled for Saturday 26th August and will be held at St Paul, Blair Athol.  It will be a day of gameshow fun, friendship, fellowship and food.  Event is open to all young people in school years 5 to 12.  Cost is $15 to cover dinner, snacks and hours of fun.  Tickets must be purchased prior to the event.  These are on sale now until 23rd August via www.nely260817.eventbrite.com.au Looking forward to seeing you all then.  Any further queries plase contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814.

Para Vista Lutheran Women's Fellowship - Notice of Meeting
Please note that the next meeting takes place in our renovated Good Shepherd Hall at 1pm, Tuesday, August 1st with Pastor Rolly leading the Bible Study. This will be followed by coffee, tea, biscuits and a social gathering.

Anyone still wishing to donate to the Lutheran Community "Socks and Jocks" collection may take this last opportunity to do so.

The Maranatha Health Quiz Night is on Saturday 5th August
Shrug off the winter blandness and let your inner patterns shine! Sharpen your wits for a night of African and general knowledge puzzling, dress in your favourite colourful patterns, grab a team of friends, bring some delicious nibbles, and come for a night of fun. There will be a special kids quiz, lots of prizes, fun games, and the latest news from our work in Uganda. All proceeds to the work of MH. Saturday 5th August, 7pm sharp start
Endeavour College, 85 Mawson Lakes Blvd, Mawson Lakes

Tables of 10. Adults $20, kids aged 10 years and over $10, kids under 10 free. BYO drinks and nibbles (alcohol allowed) Hot drinks available. Limited space so get in quick!
RSVP 28th July contact@maranathealth.org

From the Office

Professional Standards Workshop
Last opportunity to register for participation in the Professional Standards Workshop on Sunday 6th August commencing at 12.30pm and finishing at 6.30pm.

Registration is via online system and is accessible here: https://goo.gl/Zanktk and also via the SA/NT District website. If you do not have computer access please contact the church office and they will assist in registration.

IT House keeping
Please note the use of USB sockets on the projection PC to charge phones or smart devices is not permitted and is to cease forthwith.  The projection PC is a critical piece of infrastructure in our church.  In order to minimise the chances of things going wrong during worship sessions it is essential that it is only to be used for activities directly related to projection. 
To also maintain the integrity of the projection computer casual web browsing is not to be conducted on this machine.  Thank you for your cooperation with this.

Good Shepherd Representative
The next General Convention of Synod for the Lutheran Church of Australia will be held at Rosehill Gardens in western Sydney from 2nd to 7th October 2018. The LCA’s 19th general synod will feature the theme 50.500 faith.freedom.future.  If you wish to represent our congregation at this gathering please contact Stephen or the front office on 08 8263 5087 or email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au for further information.  Alternatively please mark your connect card with “Convention”

Free Books
There are still free books and AV items available on a table in the hall with books that you are free to help yourselves to.  Request that the books are not returned to the library.

Notice Board

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

Adelaide: Op Shop Volunteers Needed
LCC is in need of volunteers to help in our Op Shops at Blair Athol and Smithfield.  We are also looking for volunteers to help sort donations at the Blair Athol shop.  If you want to contribute to the community and be part of a friendly team, contact Di for more information: 8269 9300 or dgerrie@lccare.org.au

Winter Appeal – Donate and Give Hope
This winter we are asking you to donate and give hope to those who need it most. 
Many of the people that Lutheran Community Care meets are homeless and they urgently need assistance this winter. Not only have they survived the circumstances which have resulted in homelessness, the isolation they often experience adds a further burden and getting support can be difficult. With your help, we can help people get back on their feet and experience hope again.  Please visit www.lccare.org.au or phone 8269 9333 to make a donation.  All donations over $2 are tax deductible.  

Employment and Volunteer opportunities at the LCA
Employment
Chief Executive Officer
Chaplaincy
Business Director
Youth Ministry Coordinator
Assistant Manager

Volunteer’s role:
Blea Board Vacancy
Overseas Mission
Photographers
Humanitarian Roster – Lutheran World Service

Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

https://www.growministries.org.au/

“My flesh and my heart may fail,

but God is the strength of my heart

and my portion forever.”

Psalm 73:26

Cuts like a knife

For the word of God is alive and active…

The book of Hebrews was written to a group of people who were daily threatened with all the things that tear joy from life: hardships, persecution, pain and terror.  These things translate very well to our contemporary life and not just to Christians.  More and more, though, Christians, including those who live in relatively peaceful places like Australia, are understanding what the early church was going through whether attacked by the government for their beliefs, persecution for doctrinal statements, the pain of watching faith being abused in all spheres of culture and the terror of the unknown.

But the author of Hebrews offers a suggestion to those who are struggling with staying on target with regards to their lives of faith.  Use the Word of God.

Lutherans believe that the Word of God is three things:
First and foremost, the Word of God is Jesus Christ - the living Word who was with God in the beginning and is the Word of life even today.

Secondly, the Word of God is the preached word – for faith comes through hearing, and all of us, whether we recognize it or not, came to faith by hearing someone speak about it.

Lastly, the Word of God is the written word – the Bible, the scriptures.  When we speak of Sola Scriptura in our series, we understand that the scriptures are the cradle of Christ and it is here that we run headlong into the breath of God in the flesh who has come to save the world, not condemn it for its faithlessness. 

What do we do with this written word?  How do we use it?  How does it become alive and active?  How do we see its sharpness which penetrates to divide even soul and spirit, joints and marrow?

This week we’ll look at the difficulties of truly living as people of the Word, people of the Book, people who actively allow the scriptures to cut them to the quick, incise sin, like a cancerous tumour, from our lives. 

Come and open the book with us this week!

Bible Readings:  Hebrews 4:12-13; Matthew 4:1-11; Proverbs 30:5
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 now on holidays.  We will resume on Sunday 6th August at 10.30am.
Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them just outside the parenting room.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Facebook page! 
To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup is now on a break.  We will resume on Wednesday 26th July.

Youth Ministry
SOUL Crew is currently on a break for the school holidays.  Our first event will be held next Friday 28th July.  This term we are going to be looking at Jesus – Who Am I? What does it mean for us as individuals to live in Christ?  I look forward to another exciting term ahead of us.  For term 3 dates check out the flyer.

The school holidays have been an exciting time for many of our youth and leaders, whom attended CLW Camps.  I know as the Head Chef on one of the camps I was able to watch these young people grow in their relationship with Jesus over the week.  Some of them went from grumbling teens that were forced to go to camp because their parents made them, to outgoing, loving caring young people with a totally different attitude.

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

Para Vista Lutheran Women's Fellowship - Notice of Meeting
Please note that the next meeting takes place in our renovated Good Shepherd Hall at 1pm, Tuesday, August 1st with Pastor Rolly leading the Bible Study. This will be followed by coffee, tea, biscuits and a social gathering.

Anyone still wishing to donate to the Lutheran Community "Socks and Jocks" collection may take this last opportunity to do so.

The Maranatha Health Quiz Night is on Saturday 5th August
Shrug off the winter blandness and let your inner patterns shine! Sharpen your wits for a night of African and general knowledge puzzling, dress in your favourite colourful patterns, grab a team of friends, bring some delicious nibbles, and come for a night of fun. There will be a special kids quiz, lots of prizes, fun games, and the latest news from our work in Uganda. All proceeds to the work of MH. Saturday 5th August, 7pm sharp start
Endeavour College, 85 Mawson Lakes Blvd, Mawson Lakes
Tables of 10. Adults $20, kids aged 10 years and over $10, kids under 10 free. BYO drinks and nibbles (alcohol allowed) Hot drinks available. Limited space so get in quick!
RSVP 28th July contact@maranathealth.org

From the Office

Good Shepherd Representative
The next General Convention of Synod for the Lutheran Church of Australia will be held at Rosehill Gardens in western Sydney from 2nd to 7th October 2018. The LCA’s 19th general synod will feature the theme 50.500 faith.freedom.future.  If you wish to represent our congregation at this gathering please contact Stephen or the front office on 8263 5087 or email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au for further information.  Alternatively please mark your connect card with “Convention”.

URGENT Candle trimmer
A volunteer is required to learn the art of candle trimming for our alter setting each Sunday.  This position only requires approximately 15 minutes to trim candles and ensure they burn brightly on a Sunday.  Please contact the office or Stephen on 8250 1690 or churchenquiries@paravista.org.au or mark your connect cart candle trimmer.

Ignite the Future building update
Steel work is now well under way and roofing material should start to be put into place. 
The bi-fold doors have been installed to the chair store and this completes part of the project.
The narthex is available for use again this week.  Remember the rear doors are inaccessible for emergency use.

Free Books/DVD/Videos/CD’s
There are still a number of free items on the table in the hall with materials that you are free to help yourselves to.  Request that the items are not returned to the library.

Adelaide Show Outreach
If you received a copy of the Volunteer’s Response Form from Con Schlenk last Sunday please contact the office as the wrong form was accidently issued out.  If you didn’t get a form and would like one please let the office know.  Please consider this outreach program as a way to be trained then engage others in a thought provoking way about their spiritual life and open the gate for a discussion.  Please contact the office or Con Schlenk on 08 8359 1965 for further enquiries

Notice Board

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

Adelaide: Op Shop Volunteers Needed
LCC is in need of volunteers to help in our Op Shops at Blair Athol and Smithfield.  We are also looking for volunteers to help sort donations at the Blair Athol shop.  If you want to contribute to the community and be part of a friendly team, contact Di for more information: 8269 9300 or dgerrie@lccare.org.au

Winter Appeal – Donate and Give Hope
This winter we are asking you to donate and give hope to those who need it most. 
Many of the people that Lutheran Community Care meets are homeless and they urgently need assistance this winter. Not only have they survived the circumstances which have resulted in homelessness, the isolation they often experience adds a further burden and getting support can be difficult. With your help, we can help people get back on their feet and experience hope again.  Please visit www.lccare.org.au or phone 8269 9333 to make a donation.  All donations over $2 are tax deductible.  

Professional Standards
Good Shepherd will host two opportunities to participate in the Professional Standards Workshop (PSW) on Sunday 6th August and again on Sunday 10th September commencing at 12.30pm and finishing at 6.30pm.  You only need to attend one.

The workshop numbers are capped at 35 people. This is due to the interactive nature of the sessions so early registration is recommended. Registration is via online system and is accessible here: https://goo.gl/Zanktk and also via the SA/NT District website. If you do not have computer access please contact the church office and they will assist in registration.

Cost for each participant is $40.00.  If this is prohibitive for you please contact the church office or Stephen on 8263 5087 and some concession can be arranged.

What happened to teachers in Lutheran schools in June 1917?
The greatest blow to the Australian Lutheran Church in World War I was the closure of its SA schools. Some were re-established within a decade, and today the sector flourishes. But what became of the 50 teachers who lost their positions on 30 June 1917? Jen Zerner has investigated this as an Adelaide University project, and will be the guest speaker at the next Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting on Monday 24th July, 7.30 pm in Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place in the city. All welcome, supper & gold coin donation.

https://www.growministries.org.au/

“For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror;

then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part;

then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”

1 Corinthians 13:12

Handling Messiah

It is the most well-known verse from the Bible.  Most of us learned it when we were small, and if not, we’ve seen it at various locations.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

Here is the gospel message in twenty-six short words, and yet how often does the contemporary Christian church listen to or understand this message?  How often do we attempt to introduce everything but Jesus into the equation of our salvation?  …that whoever believes in him… and goes to church every week, reads their Bible once per day, prays before meals and before bedtime, does good things for other people at least once per week… will not perish but have eternal life.

It’s the desperate part of being human.  We want control.  We want power.  We want to have bootstraps and pull them up too. But in terms of salvation, it was all God’s doing. We are saved by grace, through faith in Jesus Christ.

This week, wander the pathways and experience Nicodemus and Jesus’ journey after the spring cleansing of the temple.  How does a cleaning up of our theology about salvation allow others to experience both the Water of Life and the Light of the World?  How do we celebrate God’s gift to the world in Jesus?

Bible Readings:   Isaiah 53:10-12; Romans 8:1-11; John 3:10-21
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 now on holidays.  We will resume on Sunday 6th August at 10.30am.
Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them just outside the parenting room.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Facebook page! 
To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup is now on a break.  We will resume on Wednesday 26th July.

The Maranatha Health Quiz Night is on Saturday 5th August
Shrug off the winter blandness and let your inner patterns shine! Sharpen your wits for a night of African and general knowledge puzzling, dress in your favourite colourful patterns, grab a team of friends, bring some delicious nibbles, and come for a night of fun. There will be a special kids quiz, lots of prizes, fun games, and the latest news from our work in Uganda. All proceeds to the work of MH. Saturday 5th August, 7pm sharp start
Endeavour College, 85 Mawson Lakes Blvd, Mawson Lakes
Tables of 10. Adults $20, kids aged 10 years and over $10, kids under 10 free. BYO drinks and nibbles (alcohol allowed) Hot drinks available. Limited space so get in quick!
RSVP 28th July contact@maranathealth.org

From the Office

Good Shepherd Representative
The next General Convention of Synod for the Lutheran Church of Australia will be held at Rosehill Gardens in western Sydney from 2nd to 7th October 2018. The LCA’s 19th general synod will feature the theme 50.500 faith.freedom.future.  If you wish to represent our congregation at this gathering please contact Stephen or the front office on 8263 5087 or email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au for further information.  Alternatively please mark your connect card with “Convention”.

Ignite the Future building update
I pray you all enjoyed the fresh brewed coffee in the hall last week. We continue to ask for your patience as there will be no kitchen services available till we get access to the new kitchen/café area so the paper cups will still need to be used. 

Thanks to the volunteers: On Monday 14th volunteers helped relocate the library to its new home in the Education Centre. Materials can be borrowed. Unfortunately the library computer is yet to be connected. This will happen when the second stage of our redevelopment is completed. In the meantime simply record borrowings on form provided by the computer.
Also these volunteers shifted all the items from the shipping container into the new storeroom in the hall. This area will become more effective once all the kitchen items are moved into the new kitchen.

The shipping container will remain in the car park for a short time as the school has requested it remain so they can store items to be used in their new redevelopment. The builders have not been able to complete the narthex this week so the area will still only be accessible for emergency use

Free Books/DVD/Videos/CD’s
As the library was moved a stocktake of items was conducted.  As a result there are a number of books that are no longer suitable or excess to requirement.  A table has been set up in the hall with books that you are free to help yourselves to if you can make use of them.  Request that the books are not returned to the library.

You can still help
If you have a couple of hours to spare in the next week please email Stephen on szanker@paravista.org.au or call him on 0403 180 814 or contact the front office on 8263 5087 to discuss a suitable time. Assistance will be required for the following:
•    Temporary reset the narthex
•    moving items into the store and hall
•    Assist in cleaning the donated chairs for use in the complex
•    Moving furniture back into the hall and store
As you can appreciate the more assistance given the greater the ability of the ministry groups and you as members will have to use the facility.

Finance Report
Offerings
January - June 2017
Total Offerings – Budget $257,500    Actual $255,888    DEFICIT $1,612

Budget Summary
January – May 2017
Total Income – Budget $237,375        Actual $238,862    Surplus $1,287
Total Expenses – Budget $226,150    Actual $222,512    Deficit $3,638

Notes since last Board meeting:
•    June offerings were below Budget, with REG lower than expected.
•    May 2017 MYOB has been input and has been checked and is in order.
•    Income is slightly over budget due to Interest received over budget.
•    Most Expenditure lines continue to maintain below budget.

Ignite Budget Update
•    We received $7,245 in June for the Ignite the Future building fund and with that already received in July there is currently now only $3,767 still to be received.  Thank you to all who have honoured their pledge for the Ignite project

Donations to the Ignite building project can be made via:
The collection plate in an envelope marked Ignite Project, or
Direct debit BSB: 704 942 Account: 154796
Account Name: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.

Spotlight
The spotlight this week will be focused on the Show Outreach Team.  This is a team of volunteers who run a stand at the Royal Adelaide Show and distribute a free cuppa and smile to all who are weary or in need of a friendly face.  Their primary task is to distribute tracts and scripture portions to passers-by to engage them in a thought provoking way about their spiritual life and open the gate for a discussion.

Please ring Con Schlenk on 08 8359 1965 for further enquiries.

Notice Board

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

Adelaide: Op Shop Volunteers Needed
LCC is in need of volunteers to help in our Op Shops at Blair Athol and Smithfield.  We are also looking for volunteers to help sort donations at the Blair Athol shop.  If you want to contribute to the community and be part of a friendly team, contact Di for more information: 8269 9300 or dgerrie@lccare.org.au

Winter Appeal – Donate and Give Hope
This winter we are asking you to donate and give hope to those who need it most. 
Many of the people that Lutheran Community Care meets are homeless and they urgently need assistance this winter. Not only have they survived the circumstances which have resulted in homelessness, the isolation they often experience adds a further burden and getting support can be difficult. With your help, we can help people get back on their feet and experience hope again.  Please visit www.lccare.org.au or phone 8269 9333 to make a donation.  All donations over $2 are tax deductible.  

Professional Standards
Good Shepherd will host two opportunities to participate in the Professional Standards Workshop (PSW) on Sunday 6th August and again on Sunday 10th September commencing at 12.30pm and finishing at 6.30pm.  You only need to attend one.

The workshop numbers are capped at 35 people. This is due to the interactive nature of the sessions so early registration is recommended. Registration is via online system and is accessible here: https://goo.gl/Zanktk and also via the SA/NT District website. If you do not have computer access please contact the church office and they will assist in registration.

Cost for each participant is $40.00.  If this is prohibitive for you please contact the church office or Stephen on 8263 5087 and some concession can be arranged.

What happened to teachers in Lutheran schools in June 1917?
The greatest blow to the Australian Lutheran Church in World War I was the closure of its SA schools. Some were re-established within a decade, and today the sector flourishes. But what became of the 50 teachers who lost their positions on 30 June 1917? Jen Zerner has investigated this as an Adelaide University project, and will be the guest speaker at the next Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting on Monday 24th July, 7.30 pm in Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place in the city. All welcome, supper & gold coin donation.

“But Jesus looked at them and said to them,

With men this is impossible,

but with God all things are possible.”

Matthew 19:26

A Leap of Faith

If there is anything in life that should be uncomfortable, it should be our faith. 
Throughout this week I’ve been scouring the scriptures attempting to find someone – anyone – who actually seemed to be comfortable in a faith that was sedentary, immobile or passive.  I couldn’t find one – even Judas, who betrayed Jesus, seemed to be doing it from a faithful-(unfortunate)-force-his-hand-position.  From the very beginnings of the Bible, from Adam, to (especially) Abram, to Moses, Esther, Mary; all of them were not allowed to remain static in their journeys, because faith is a living, breathing, ambulatory thing.  We were never meant to sit still, whether physically or spiritually.

And yet in the majority of churches, the reason people seek out a congregation, or a worship service, is the fact that they feel comfortable.  They like the comfortable music, the comfortable sermon, the comfortable friendship, etc…  Now, when I write this, it’s not as if I’m trying to shove spiritual splinters under fingernails, but when we look at the scriptures with regards to what faith does, we’ll notice many beautiful and frightening things:
   People step onto the water from a perfectly comfortable boat.
   People have children when they are comfortably situated in old age.
   People encounter Jesus in joy and suffering from a comfortable place of power.
  This is the leap of faith.  Not the leap of comfort.

This week we’ll be dissecting two heroes of the faith; one a steadfast believer in God, the other a Gentile Roman soldier whom Jesus marvels about his faith that has no need for eyes.  Come and experience the dis-comfort of faith, but also hear the story once again from the voices of young and old people alike, how faith changes life!

Bible Readings:   Luke 7:1-10, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Genesis 12:1-9
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 now on holidays.  We will resume on Sunday 6th August at 10.30am.
Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them just outside the parenting room.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Facebook page!  To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup is now on a break.  We will resume on Wednesday 26th July.

Youth Ministry
SOUL Crew was held last Friday, last for the term, and we finished the last in our series of “Jesus – Who is He?”  We finished on Jesus – The Miracle Man.  We talked about His miracles but in particular focussed on the Feeding of the 5,000 and how even in today’s society that miracle is still very relevant.  We also realised that little – and sometimes big – miracles happen everyday in our lives and around us, but sometimes we are so busy or self-absorbed we fail to see them.  It was a good night as we had some fun games to reinforce how to share the good news of Jesus. 

Next week sees the start of many CLW camps around the state.  We have a lot of campers and leaders heading over to Port Hughes over the next two weeks.  This includes myself, as I have been allocated “Head Chef” for week 1 of camp so I know I am up for a busy week looking after the campers. BUT I also know it will be extremely rewarding watching these young people grow over the time they spend at camp.  I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all those “prayer warriors” for coming forward and volunteering to pray for us – it is totally awesome going away knowing that the power of prayer is behind us.

Looking forward to another exciting term ahead as we tackle “Jesus-Who am I?”- learning about ourselves and what is expected/asked of us as a follower of Jesus.  Term 3 flyer is attached so mark these dates in your diary.

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

From the Office

Ignite the Future building update
We have good news this week as we are able to move back into the hall and have fresh brewed coffee from our well known barista.  We continue to ask for your patience as there will be no services available so the paper cups will still need to be used.  We have lights but no power to most power points or water to the new sink area. So the staff kitchen will still need to be used for water and clean up point.

You will all see plenty of changes to the rear wall of the narthex.  As this will be classed as part of the building site this week it is requested that all members refrain from entering this area unless you are a worship host and are required to turn on lights or access the AV room.  All efforts will be made to have the information normally supplied in this area set up in a temporary location. (See where you can help below)

Again this week a number of volunteers have offered time at short notice to assist in various preparation of building project.  This week the new store floor was ground back and a number of sealing coats applied ready for use.  After hours structural steel rectification of the current building was also undertaken by Eric Hofmanis to ensure structural integrity.

This is where you can help
If you have a couple of hours to spare in the next week please email Stephen on szanker@paravista.org.au or call him on 0403 180 814 or email John Dolling at jdolling@bigpond.net.au to discuss your availability. Assistance will be required for the following:
•    assisting to relocate the library into the new meeting room from the front foyer
•    temporary reset the narthex
•    to set up the shelving in the new store 
•    moving items into the store from the hall
•    relocating the items from the temporary shipping container
•    spraying weeds in the garden and perhaps weeding where spray cannot be used
•    assist in cleaning the donated chairs for use in the complex
•    moving furniture back into the hall and store
As you can appreciate the more assistance given the greater the ability of the ministry groups, and you as members, will have to use the facility.

Social club
The Social Club will be up and running again from Thursday 13th July at 1.00pm.  Why not come along and enjoy a game of carpet bowls on a green that has its own secret, or be a team player at cards.

Parking lot safety reminder – One Way Traffic
Reminder our car park is now permanent one way to all traffic.  Entry only permitted from Montague Road and all vehicles are required to exit onto Hillary Crescent.  Traffic signs indicating flow of traffic are in place.  Please note this is a shared area and speed is restricted to 10KPH

Notice Board

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

Adelaide: Op Shop Volunteers Needed
LCC is in need of volunteers to help in our Op Shops at Blair Athol and Smithfield.  We are also looking for volunteers to help sort donations at the Blair Athol shop.  If you want to contribute to the community and be part of a friendly team, contact Di for more information: 8269 9300 or dgerrie@lccare.org.au

Professional Standards
The Professional Standards Department of the SA/NT District was established by the LCA to assist all those who engage with our church to care for one another.

There is now a Professional Standards Officer in every District of the LCA. 
Caring for one another requires a little effort from us. It's something we need to choose to do. It's love in action.  It's what we are called to do as Christians.

The LCA and its districts have policies and procedures to help us know appropriate ways of behaving and responding to matters that life throws at us.  We need to take special care of the vulnerable people, the frail, the sick, the sad and especially our children. In the past we may have tried to ‘fix things up’ after an incident occurred, but our new focus is on the prevention of harm.

The LCA offers a number of different types of training and workshops to help congregations meet their Health and Safety, and ChildSafe obligations.As part of this Good Shepherd will host two opportunities to participate in the Professional Standards Workshop (PSW) on Sunday 6th August and again on Sunday 10th September commencing at 12.30pm and finishing at 6.30pm.  You only need to attend one.

This workshop focuses on the prevention of harassment and abuse (including Safe Place) and ChildSafe team member combined into one workshop, removing the need for congregation members to complete two types of training.This is the foundation training which must be completed before other levels of training offered by the LCA.

The workshop numbers are capped at 35 people. This is due to the interactive nature of the sessions so early registration is recommended. Registration is via online system and is accessible here: https://goo.gl/Zanktk and also via the SA/NT District website. If you do not have computer access please contact the church office and they will assist in registration.

Cost for each participant is $40.00.  If this is prohibitive for you please contact the church office or Stephen on 8263 5087 and some concession can be arranged.

This workshop is required by all church leaders and recommended for all adult members. A luncheon will be provided for participants directly after service on Sunday to enable the workshop to commence and finish on time.  Please see the notice board and slide adverts for further information.

“God shows his love for us in that

while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Romans 5:8

Grace Unfettered

The priest and theologian Henri Nouwen writes, “Humility is the real Christian virtue.  When we come to realise that… only God saves, then we are free to serve, then we can live truly humble lives.”

Philip Yancey writes about Nouwen and his change.  “Nouwen changed his approach from ‘selling perals,’ or peddling the good news, to ‘hunting for treasure’ already present in those he was called to love – a shift from dispensing religion to dispensing grace.  It makes all the difference in the world whether I view my neighbour as a potential convert or as someone whom God already loves…”

This week we’ll begin our July series looking at the path which is the foundation of Christianity.  The series, titled ‘Going Solo,’ is not about living life or faith solo, but understanding the five solas , or ‘alones,’ of Lutheran identity. 

Saved by Grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, found in scripture alone, for the glory of God alone.

In our first week, we’ll discover the difference between what Dietrich Bonhoeffer calls ‘cheap grace’ which is not a saving grace, and God’s love that passes all understanding in the death and resurrection of his Son, Jesus Christ. 

We’re going to challenge our own human natures to be masters of our own destinies to be drawn into God’s graceful story.  From his story, we move into the world.
Bring your Bibles or follow along on your phones.  We’ll be digging in this week.

Bible Readings:   Acts 20:22-32, Isaiah 58:6-12, Luke 7:11-17
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.

July is Family Focus Month
During the month of July, Pastor Reid would like families and children to serve in the worship services.  This could include prayers, readings or testimonials. If you would like to be involved, please let Margot know how and which Sunday you would be available.

We would also like to have families serving together.  This could include welcoming, hosting, taking up the offering or helping out with morning tea.

Please contact Margot on 0401 850 814 or margot.mertin@paravista.org.au
To God be the glory in July as his people serve Him in worship and each other!

Growing Faith at Home
Now available only on our church App! 
To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup is now on a break.  We will resume on Wednesday 26th July.

Youth Ministry
SOUL Crew is on this Friday, last for the term, and we will be finishing the last in our series of “Jesus – Who is He?”  Bring your bible and bring your friends as we learn about Jesus the Miracle Man in an interesting, fun way.  There will be a time of large group, small group, games and of course we always have supper!!

SOUL Crew is a great way for like-minded teens to come together and explore their faith in a safe non-judgemental environment, so feel free to invite all your friends.  Cost is $2 to cover supper.

Christian Life Week is coming up in the July school holidays and these are week long camps, spending time with other Christian teens hanging out, playing games, studying the bible and having small group discussions.  This year the camp is held at Port Hughes and run over 2 weeks – split into school year levels - and the camps will be tailored to the specific age groups. 

10th-14th July – Year 7-9
17th-21st July – Year 10-12    Cost $220-00

Para Vista has a number of campers already registered and also quite a few SOUL Crew leaders will be leading on camp.  I urge you to go ahead and register and be set for an awesome time.  If finances are the only reason stopping any young person attending camp, please contact me and we can come to some sort of arrangement.

WANTED - Off-Site Camp Prayer Warriors
"I used to think that prayer should have the first place and teaching the second. I now feel it would be truer to give prayer the first, second and third places and teaching the fourth."
 - James O. Fraser (1886 – 1938; missionary to China)
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion.
Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
– Ephesians 6:18

This year, we have an exciting opportunity again for parents, caregivers, friends and fellow believers to be involved in an off-site prayer team for camp. Working with the prayer support of leaders during camp, you are able to nominate this year to participate in receiving prayer requests throughout a week of camp (or both camps, if you like!) These requests will be distributed to you via text messages from a leader on camp; there are generally 3-4 updates each day.

We are excited at the idea of having so many parents, caregivers, and church members praying for our campers and leaders throughout the week. We have experienced the power of prayer in our lives, and we know how good it is when we are united in prayer. We hope you will be interested in supporting camp in this way.
Details needed from participants:
●    During which camp they would like to receive prayer updates; from Sunday 9th - Saturday 15th July (Year 7-9), or from Sunday 16th - Saturday 22nd July (Years 10-12), or both
●    Name (at least a first name)
●    Mobile phone number
Further details regarding youth contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or mmertin@paravista.org.au

Notice Board

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

BAROSSA: Position Vacant – Financial Counsellor
We are looking for a qualified Financial Counsellor to assist clients with budgeting, debt-related issues and information about their financial rights and responsibilities.  The position is a 12 month contract to 30 June 2018, working 3-4 days a week.  For more information, please contact Leigh tel: 8269 9300 or email: lgoodenough@lccare.org.au  A copy of the Job Description is available on our website: www.lccare.org.au

Adelaide: Op Shop Volunteers Needed
LCC is in need of volunteers to help in our Op Shops at Blair Athol and Smithfield.  We are also looking for volunteers to help sort donations at the Blair Athol shop.  If you want to contribute to the community and be part of a friendly team, contact Di for more information: 8269 9300 or dgerrie@lccare.org.au

Preparing For Marriage Course
4th, 11th & 18th July 2017 from 7.00pm – 9.30pm
Good Shepherd Lutheran School, 388 Montague Road, Para Vista
An enjoyable, interactive, non-threatening way to share time with your partner and other couples, bringing benefits that can last a lifetime.

Cost $100.00 couple
For more information please contact Merv & Ros Thiele 0429009847 or email: mervrost@bigpond.net.au

Professional Standards
The Professional Standards Department of the SA/NT District was established by the LCA to assist all those who engage with our church to care for one another.
There is now a Professional Standards Officer in every District of the LCA. 
Caring for one another requires a little effort from us. It's something we need to choose to do. It's love in action. 
It's what we are called to do as Christians.

The LCA and its districts have policies and procedures to help us know appropriate ways of behaving and responding to matters that life throws at us.  We need to take special care of the vulnerable people, the frail, the sick, the sad and especially our children. In the past we may have tried to ‘fix things up’ after an incident occurred, but our new focus is on the prevention of harm.

The LCA offers a number of different types of training and workshops to help congregations meet their Health and Safety, and ChildSafe obligations.

As part of this Good Shepherd will host two opportunities to participate in the Professional Standards Workshop (PSW) on Sunday 6th August and again on Sunday 10th September commencing at 12.30pm and finishing at 6.30pm.  You only need to attend one.

This workshop focuses on the prevention of harassment and abuse (including Safe Place) and ChildSafe team member combined into one workshop, removing the need for congregation members to complete two types of training.

This is the foundation training which must be completed before other levels of training offered by the LCA.

The workshop numbers are capped at 35 people. This is due to the interactive nature of the sessions so early registration is recommended. Registration is via online system and is accessible here: https://goo.gl/Zanktk and also via the SA/NT District website. If you do not have computer access please contact the church office and they will assist in registration.

Cost for each participant is $40.00.  If this is prohibitive for you please contact the church office or Stephen on 8263 5087 and some concession can be arranged.

This workshop is required by all church leaders and recommended for all adult members. A luncheon will be provided for participants directly after service on Sunday to enable the workshop to commence and finish on time.  Please see the notice board and slide adverts for further information.

“In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.”

Psalm 5:3