Next Generation: The Race Defined

Let us run with perseverance the race marked out before us fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfector of faith.   

Hebrews 12:1b, 2a

The first three verses of Hebrews 12 always fill me with wonder.  The author of Hebrews, someone quite familiar with the history and psyche of the nation of Israel, writes to a group of people that were desperately longing for a Saviour, and now that he had arrived in the person of Jesus Christ, the people of Israel needed to adjust their racing tactics.
 
That’s what the author writes about: a race which has been marked with boundaries; a race that has a goal that established from the beginning of time – Jesus; and a training regimen that seems particularly difficult especially for those who had long since wondered whether their efforts were worthless, their sacrifices heeded and their lives lived in fearsome service of God.

But, the chapter that precedes is an important lead-in to the amazing race of our lives.  From the beginning of human history, the author gives an account of how the race was run – with perseverance.  From Abel to Abraham, Jacob to Moses, to their own present day, the martyrs were waiting patiently for God to reveal the beginning and the end of the race, his son, Jesus.

These (people) were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us that only together with us would they be made perfect!  (Hebrews 11:39,40)

This has never been a solo race!  Together, with the great cloud of witnesses that has gone before us, we are allowed to run with perseverance this race set before us!  On the ultimate to perfection in Jesus, we are still encouraged by those who ran the race first and have handed the baton off.

Now the question is, to whom do we pass the baton?  How is this done?  What does this race look like?

For the next four weeks, the last in the Christian calendar year before Advent begins the new, we’ll be looking from a starting line into the future that we, as a community, as a body of Christ, will be running to.  With the template from Hebrews 12:1-12, put on your running shoes and start training, start disciplining yourselves for the race ahead!

Reid Matthias

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

Good Shepherd Remembrance Service 
We’re having another Remembrance Service on Saturday November 4th at 1:30pm.  The aims are to remember loved ones who have died, to share our grief with one another, and to seek God’s comfort in Jesus. It’s open to all who would like to come.  As part of that service, family members and friends will have an opportunity to light a candle. 

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
This Sunday Kingdom Kids will be available at the 10.30am service for 10 month to Year 7 aged children.

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
On Wednesday Katya from Salisbury Council came in to run a preschool age literacy program engaging children and parents.  Each child received a CD of songs to sing together.  Playgroup begins at 9.30am in the church hall. Please bring pre cut fruit to share. We look forward to seeing you there!

Youth Ministry
Youth is back for term 4. Last week we held our last North Eastern Lutheran Youth Event – a worship night over at Golden Grove.  It was attended by many young people and was a fun night with a great message about how Jesus fits into life today.  This week we are having an event about Evangelism and sharing our faith.  By the end of the night we hope you walk away with some fresh ideas on how to share your faith without appearing to be a “bible basher”, just being a loving, caring Christian.  There will be a time of games, small group and large group sharing.  Cost is $2 to cover the cost of supper.  Soft drink cans are available for $1.  Invite a friend or two.  Looking forward to seeing you Friday.

Please contact me for further details regarding youth ministry - Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or Margot.Mertin@paravista.org.au

SOUL Crew Young Adults
Next Saturday night on 11th November from 5.30-9.30pm we are hosting an event for 18+ around the topic of “Sexuality and Relationships.”  We will start the evening with some fun and games and of course food.  Then we will have a time of worship together and a large amount of time will be devoted to discussing this very relevant, but often “taboo” subject of sexuality and relationships.  We have an awesome pastor panel line-up – Pastors Reid Matthias, Rolly Stahl, Eugene Minge and Greg Fowler will be joining us to answer our questions.  I would encourage anyone with questions to forward them on to Margot Mertin in order for the pastors to prepare.  Confidentiality, privacy and anonymity will be strictly upheld.  Of course the panel will be open to some questions on the night as well.  Cost is $5 to cover the cost of pizza.  Bring your own drinks, but there will be $1 soft drinks available.  Invite along a group of friends – Christian or non-Christian to come along for a great night.  Hope to see you all there.  Any further details please contact Margot 0401 850814 or margot.mertin@paravista.org.au

From the Office

Staff Retreat
The church office will be closed for a staff retreat on Monday 6th and Tuesday 7th November.

Notice Board

Garden and Goodies
Because we couldn't get to the recent Family Zone Hub market day, we've decided to hold our own GARDEN AND GOODIES stall here at church to support the vital local ministry of Lutheran Community Care. So come along on November 5th after both services and have a browse! We would really appreciate donations of plants and or baked treats on the day. Please contact Sonia Hulme (0428427931) if you'd like to contribute or help out.

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

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

Reformation Seminar: Luther’s Legacy in Australian Lutheranism
1 day seminar to be held Saturday 11 November at Ferryden Park church
Discover how items from Lutheran Archives highlight the legacy of the Reformation – restored biblical truths and renewed church life – transplanted to Australia by generations of Lutherans and fostered by them in church, mission and manse, school and home.
Bookings on 8340 4009 by 6 November.
Cost $40- including lunch and morning and afternoon tea.
Seminar curated by Lutheran Archives

“But Jesus looked at them and said,

With men it is impossible, but not with God;

for with God all things are possible.”

Mark 10:27

From Reformation to Transformation

Over 500 years ago, a monk named Martin Luther was sent to Wittenberg University to teach.  He discovered that what the church of his day was promoting was different from the clear teachings of the Bible. 

Wanting to explore these matters with others, on October 31st 1517, Martin posted 95 points for discussion on the church doors at Wittenberg. In the university environment where Luther was teaching, this was not unusual.

Yet with the printing press came the quick distribution of Luther's questions - along with other writings.  Before long, lots of people were finding out the truth: we are saved by God’s grace alone, through Christ alone.

We do not get into God’s good books by what we do, but by trusting in what Jesus has done for us through his death and resurrection. We get into heaven on Jesus’ ticket, not our own. 

This truth was the heart of the Reformation. This truth is also the key to our transformation. 

Transformation is a life-long adventure of doing life with Jesus – not out of fear or dread, but with joy and delight in knowing that we are God’s loved and forgiven children. 

Transformation is the outworking of God’s Word and Spirit in us, shaping us into the character of Jesus, so we can share in his ministry of transforming others. 

Transformation happens as we celebrate the good things of God and pass on the baton of faith to the next generations.  

Come along this Sunday as we continue this amazing adventure: From Reformation to Transformation.  Our combined worship service will commence at 9:30am with a shared lunch to follow.  I look forward to your company!

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings: Psalm 98, Romans 12:1-8
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Good Shepherd Remembrance Service 
We’re having another Remembrance Service on Saturday November 4th at 1:30pm.  The aims are to remember loved ones who have died, to share our grief with one another, and to seek God’s comfort in Jesus. It’s open to all who would like to come.  As part of that service, family members and friends will have an opportunity to light a candle. 

We also would like to read out a list of names of those being remembered. If you would like a loved one’s name to be read out, you can make this known as you arrive on the day.  Some helpers will be recording names for the list, and if you wish you can include the date of their death. Following the service, there will be an afternoon cuppa in the hall. 

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 will not be available this week as we will be participating in worship at our 9.30am combined service for Reformation Sunday.

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 Face Book page!  To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
On Wednesday Katya from Salisbury Council came in to run a preschool age literacy program engaging children and parents.  Each child received the book “Dear Zoo”.  This book will be the focus for the next couple of sessions.  Playgroup begins at 9.30am in the church hall. Please bring pre-cut fruit to share. We look forward to seeing you there!

Youth Ministry
Youth is back for term 4. Last week we looked at Matthew 25:31-46 the sheep and goats and what it means to serve the needy and look after those in the community, and take the focus off ourselves.  Following Jesus’ example and being sheep rather than goats.

This Friday we have our last NELY event for the year – a worship night being held at Golden Grove from 7pm – 9.30pm.  We hope to see you there.

Please contact me for further details regarding youth ministry - Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or Margot.Mertin@paravista.org.au

From the Office

Parking this Transformation Sunday
The school oval has been made available for parking on Sunday.  Able bodied members are encouraged to park on the school oval to allow our guests and less ambulant to park in allocated parking spaces.  Parking to the eastern end of the oval and keeping as close to the fence as possible will be appreciated.

Staff Retreat
The church office will be closed for a staff retreat on Monday 6th and Tuesday 7th November.

Ignite the Future building update
Enjoy the new open space this weekend as the transformation of the internal part of the project has commenced.  Thanks to the volunteers Ian, Eric, John and Jeff who have slept well each night this last week transforming our worship space

Flushing of the new area has finished and the painters have been busy adding colour to the walls.  Our cabinet maker has installed most of the kitchen and café cabintry and the ceilings have been installed.  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.

For Sale $30.00 or near offer!
Office Desks. Good condition. Size =1800mm wide X 900mm deep, see picture (extras not included). 4 available. To view items or for more information please contact Stephen or the front office on 08 8263 5087 or email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au.

Notice Board

GARDEN AND GOODIES
Because we couldn't get to the recent Family Zone Hub market day, we've decided to hold our own GARDEN AND GOODIES stall here at church to support the vital local ministry of Lutheran Community Care. So come along on November 5th after both services and have a browse! We would really appreciate donations of plants and or baked treats on the day. Reminder magnets can be picked up this Sunday. Please contact Sonia Hulme (0428427931) if you'd like to contribute or help out.

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

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

Christmas Trees
Christmas tree orders can be placed at Holycross Birdwood. Order forms are in the attached email and can also be found on the church noticeboard.

“He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.”
Isaiah 40:29 NIV

Winter – the season of planting

We are familiar with what happened on Good Friday – and the following Sunday.

But what happened on the Saturday in between?
Jesus was already dead and buried.
The chief priests and teachers of the law were smug about getting rid of him.
The women were weeping and wondering how it had come to this.
The disciples were hiding behind locked doors, terrified and reeling with grief.
For the Jews, it was Sabbath – a day of rest.

It seems like NOTHING was happening - that the kingdom of God ushered in by Jesus had come to a dead stop. Until the next day!

When tragedy strikes or life turns sour - and we cannot fathom what God is up to, or where God is in our mess - we are in the winter season of the soul.  Some writers refer to it as: “The Dark Night of the Soul.” 

Have you ever felt like that?

• Perhaps the death of a loved one, a dream has been dashed, or a broken relationship has left you a dense spiritual fog?
• After a series of unfortunate events, perhaps you wonder about God’s love for you personally – maybe even question God’s existence.
• There’s a feeling of being stuck, as if nothing is happening, that there are no clear solutions, or our issues are not resolving.

Winter can be a very dark, cold and lonely place to find one’s self. Yet our experience is NOT new.  Our ancient book of Psalms has many complaints to God when “it hits the fan”.  And Jesus knows exactly how we feel.

This Sunday we look at how to keep a godly perspective in this season, as well as some practical guidelines for getting through this season.  I hope it will be helpful for every one of us!  It will be the final part of our series: Seasons of the Soul.  

Pr Rolly

Bible Readings:     Psalm 13    John 12:23-33     1 Corinthians 13:8-13
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Appreciation
Over the last few weeks of intense pastoral ministry, I have been sustained and encouraged by your support and prayers.  I am humbled and grateful.  In addition, many of you have helped out with care and comfort of those in grief, as well as in practical ways for the funeral services that have come our way.  Together, our Good Shepherd family has showed the compassion of Jesus to hundreds of people in their season of sorrow. Thank you!  It is an honour serving with you!

Pr Rolly

Bring in a symbol of your transformation.
Sunday 29th October is our combined service celebration at 9:30am for Reformation - 500 years. Paul was transformed on the road to Damascus. Luther was transformed whilst out in a lightning storm. What about your transformation?

To go along with our theme 'From Transformation to Reformation’ - we are asking people to bring in a symbol - something that was instrumental in their transformation. It could be a painting, a book, a note, a bible! Bring it into the church office this week with a brief note of its importance and we will display them in the Education Centre adjacent to the hall. There will be tables set up inside.

Good Shepherd Remembrance Service
We’re having another Remembrance Service on Saturday November 4th at 1:30pm.  The aims are to remember loved ones who have died, to share our grief with one another, and to seek God’s comfort in Jesus. It’s open to all who would like to come.  As part of that service, family members and friends will have an opportunity to light a candle.

We also would like to read out a list of names of those being remembered. If you would like a loved one’s name to be read out, you can make this known as you arrive on the day.  Some helpers will be recording names for the list, and if you wish you can include the date of their death.

Following the service, there will be an afternoon cuppa in the hall.

Pr Rolly Stahl

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 begins again for term 4 at our 10.30am service this Sunday for 10 month – Year 4 aged children. 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
Next week at Little Lambs Playgroup, Salisbury Council will be coming in to run a preschool age literacy program engaging children and parents for 4 weeks at 9.30am in the church hall. Please bring pre-cut fruit to share. We look forward to seeing you there!

Youth Ministry
Youth is back for term 4 – starting this Friday.  We are starting our series – Jesus-Who Are We? This week we are looking at what it means to look beyond ourselves and take care of others.  Supper will be provided and there will be games, small group discussion times and lots more!  See you all tomorrow night. Please contact me for further details regarding youth ministry - Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or Margot.Mertin@paravista.org.au

GREEN TEAM REMINDER
If anyone is interested in volunteering or supporting Para Vista Green Team in any way, for Schoolies, please get in contact with Margot or the church office as soon as possible.  Registrations for Green Team close on 23rd October.

From the Office

For Sale - $30.00 or near offer!
Office Desks. Good condition. Size =1800mm wide X 900mm deep, see picture (extras not included). 4 available. To view items or for more information please contact Stephen or the front office on 08 8263 5087 or email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au.

Lost Property
Lost property can be found near the worship host desk.  Please have a look and claim any items that you may misplaced. Any unclaimed property that have been left too long will be placed in the LCC bin.

Staff Retreat
The church office will be closed for a staff retreat on Monday 6th and Tuesday 7th November.

Notice Board

GARDEN AND GOODIES
'Because we couldn't get to the recent Family Zone Hub market day, we've decided to hold our own GARDEN AND GOODIES stall here at church to support the vital local ministry of Lutheran Community Care. So come along on November 5th after both services and have a browse! We would really appreciate donations of plants and or baked treats on the day. Please contact Sonia Hulme (0428427931) if you'd like to contribute or help out.'

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

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

Christmas Trees
Christmas tree orders can be placed at Holycross Birdwood. Order forms are in the attached email and can also be found on the church noticeboard.

“I will fulfil my vows to the LORD

in the presence of all his people.”

Psalm 116:14

A New Season

Aside from weeding the flower bed or vegetable garden, my least favourite horticultural duty is to prune.  It’s not like I do it that much, but there seems to be something almost sadistic about pruning, as if we, the humans, can lop off any old peace of tree that we want under the auspices that ‘It’ll be good for the tree.’  I don’t know whether trees feel pain; I would guess not, but I’m certain that even if they don’t, if they were sentient beings, they would not look forward to the snip snip sound of pruning shears nearing their branches.

Pruning, as far as the experts say (and I am not one of them), is best left until the autumn time when the ground is a little firmer, the foliage has fallen from the trees giving better access to the branches and the tree itself is preparing for a period of dormancy so that new growth can begin in the spring.

Each person, and each congregation, goes through this season of autumn where pruning has to occur so that new life and new growth can take place.  Jesus uses this pruning metaphor in the gospel of John:

I am the vine and my Father is the gardener.  He cuts off every branch that in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.

Jesus horticultural metaphor allows us to see the important characters of the story – himself, as the taproot of all life, and his Father as the gardener, or the pruning specialist.  We are given a brief look into a difficult activity of the Father which may seem painful at first, but necessary for the vine to grow.  Some questions we’ll look at this week in the continuation of the series Seasons of the Soul – Autumn are:

1. What does this pruning look like in the body of Christ?  Jesus almost always speaks in the plural, so how do we, together, undergo the pruning?
2. Why does pruning have to take place?  What is the new growth coming?
3. If God does the pruning, what kinds of things are being pruned from us?  How do we bear this pain so that we can bear fruit?

Walk through the falling leaves with me as we explore this season of the soul.
Reid Mathias

Bible Readings:    John 15:1-10,   Romans 11:11-24
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
We will resume Sunday 22nd October 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
We will resume on Wednesday 18th October at 9.30am in the church hall.

Thank You So Much from P.V. Women’s Fellowship
The Good Shepherd Fellowship catering group wishes to thank the women who generously provided sandwiches, scones and their time as we recently farewelled some members of our Good Shepherd community. We rejoice that they are in God's keeping. Thank you for your willing support. Our Fellowship is most appreciative as is a much larger community.


From the Office

Ignite building update
The facilities team met with the builder this last week and the expected completion date for the project is now going to be late November.  Most of the roofing has been completed.  Wall linings have been installed and flushing for internal walls will be commencing next week.  Paving of the courtyard will also be commencing next week. The team have also broke down and removed the remainder of excess trollies from the hall area.

Finance Report
Offerings
January - September  2017
Total Offerings – Budget $379,000        Actual $381,089        Surplus $2,089    

Budget Summary
January – August 2017
Total Income – Budget $372,740           
Total Expenses – Budget $366,594           

Notes since last Board meeting:
•    September offerings were under Budget. REG and Plate below budget by about $1,500.
•    Offerings are maintaining a buffer above budget but it has eroded in the last few months.

Ignite Budget Update
•    We received $1,675 in September for the Ignite the Future building fund 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.

Car parking on Sunday 29th October
Car parking attendants will be required to assist with traffic and parking on Reformation day for the combined service.  Please mark ‘Parking’ on your connect card on Sunday, call the office or let Stephen know of your availability.

Members are encouraged to park on the school oval to allow any guests to park in allocated parking spaces.  Please assist by parking to the eastern end of the oval.
Disabled Parking Only will be permitted between the village and the church.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.
 
Adelaide Show Outreach 2017
Thank you for again praying for our ministry at the Show and supporting it financially as circumstances permitted

By God’s grace we had volunteers on our Stand at all times during the ten days. WE give thanks also that we were able to distribute several thousand tracts, almost 160 Gospels of Mark and John, more than 60 New Testaments and complete Bibles, 33 DVDs of the Jesus film, and 20 or so copies of the Bible study guide Grounded in the Word.

We were again blessed with generous support by Lutheran Tract Mission, which we gratefully acknowledge. Despite careful stewardship of our resources and significant gifts in kind by several members of our committee, we finished the Show year with expenses exceeding income by $2,923. Total outlays for the year were S10,540.

“The name of the Lord is a strong fortress;
the godly run to him and are safe.”

Proverbs 18:10

Summer – the season of harvest

For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NLT)

This Sunday we continue our series: Seasons of the Soul. 
Last Sunday, we looked at: Spring – the season of growth.
This Sunday: Summer – the season of harvest.

If you have any connection with the land, you’ll know that summer is when grapes are picked, almonds are knocked, and farmers reap their crops of grain. If you’ve ever had a vegie patch, this is the most prolific time of the year. Cucumbers, tomatoes, strawberries, corn, capsicum, peas, pumpkins, and melons are all ripening and ready to be picked. 

In times past, lots of congregations celebrated “harvest thanksgiving”.
I wonder: do we still recognise God’s hand behind all our blessings? 
Or do we assume that it’s all about our efforts? 

What makes us “rich”?  Is it just the accumulation of wealth, or is it something deeper and longer lasting? Is it confined to just money and dumb stuff?  Or is it about the people with whom we do life?  What will we think on our death beds?

Summer is a season of reaping, harvest, blessing. What is our response? 
Pr Rolly

Bible Readings:    Ecclesiastes 4:7-12       Luke 12:13-21        Luke 17:11-19
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Artist in residence
Two Sunday’s back, our ‘artist in residence’- Hayley - produced a painting which is currently on display. If you are interested in looking at more of Hayley’s work, please visit her website: www.lifeartbyhayleylauren.com

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
We will resume Sunday 22nd October 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
We will resume next term on Wednesdays at 9.30am in the church hall.

Help wanted at LCC Ingle Farm 
This Thursday from 1pm, blokes needed to assemble steel racking for storage.
This Friday from 10am, men and women needed to sort and stack shelves.
If you can help, please see or contact Eric Hofmanis 0419 814 480

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

LLL Interest Rate change
The LLL advises that effective 1 October 2017, the interest rate on at-call Savings Accounts has changed from 2.50% to 2.25% per annum.

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

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

“We are confident, I say,

and would prefer to be away from the body

and at home with the Lord.”

2 Corinthians 5:8

Seasons of the Soul

Everything that happens in this world happens at the time God chooses. (Ecclesiastes 3:1 GNB)

What is your favourite season of the year?  And why?

There are a bunch of things unique to each season of the year.  What we do in Summer, we may not be able to do in Winter – and vice versa.  If you are from a farming background or into gardening, different things need to be done in each season to keep your plants healthy.

In his parables Jesus used seeds and plants, vines and branches, fig trees and fields ripe for harvest - to teach about kingdom life.  In this series, we will be drawing from the world of agriculture to talk about the four seasons of the soul.

Doing life with Jesus, we find that at times things go smoothly - we grow easily in our relationship with God. But at other times it’s not so easy. Challenges stand in our way, faith gets difficult, even painful … and at times our relationship with God grows cold. What we experience are the seasons of the soul. 

In this series, we will be using the four seasons to explore our walk with God: what happens in those seasons, why each one is important, and what needs to happen for our growth to continue.

We begin this Sunday:  Spring – the Season of Growth.

Pr Rolly

Bible Readings:    Ecclesiastes 3:1-15    Jeremiah 17:5-8       Mark 4:14-20, 26-29
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Artist in residence
Last Sunday, Hayley was our ‘artist in residence’.  Over our morning services she did a painting which is currently on display. If you are interested in looking at more of Hayley’s work, please visit her website: www.lifeartbyhayleylauren.com

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 Sunday 22nd October 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
Little Lambs Playgroup is now on a break.  We will resume next term on Wednesdays at 9.30am in the church hall.

Youth Ministry
Last Friday night we screened the football match here at church.  During the football breaks we had some very deep and interesting discussion around where Jesus fits with sport.  It was a great night and it was really good to have a couple of people from the congregation join in the night with us too.  Youth is now on a break until term 4.  See below for next term flyer with dates.

Help Wanted
I am looking for people interested in supporting youth ministry to come on board and establish a Youth Ministry Team – this does not mean leading youth, this is a support type team – helping out with simple tasks such as helping with supper on youth event nights, maybe shopping or sourcing items at various times, using your skills and gifts in any way that may be helpful in supporting youth ministry.  If you feel this is something you would like to be involved in, please get in touch with me. Please contact me for further details regarding youth ministry - Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or Margot.Mertin@paravista.org.au

Green Team Reminder
If anyone is interested in volunteering or supporting Para Vista Green Team in any way, for Schoolies,  please get in contact with Margot or the church office as soon as possible.

Para Vista Women's Fellowship
Please attend our two meetings in OCTOBER. Especially the first on Tuesday, October 3rd. At this meeting we will be interested to hear your thoughts and ideas about how our 2018 program is to be structured. All ideas will be considered and discussed and the committee are hoping  to hear many contributions from you, the members.

Our second October meeting is to be on Tuesday, 31st . We encourage you to attend each of these meetings to ensure the future planning of our 2018 Fellowship.  There is no Fellowship meeting in November.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

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

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

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

“Greater love has no one than this,

that he lay down his life for his friends.”

John 15:13

Shaped for beauty and wholeness

This Sunday will be the final part of our series: Shaped for Shalom.

Shalom is peace, right relationships, right order, justice, wholeness. The prophet Micah gives us an image of God’s shalom:  Everyone will sit under their own vine and under their own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the LORD Almighty has spoken. (Micah 4:4 NIV)

Our theme this Sunday: Shaped for beauty and wholeness.  We believe that this universe was created by God.  As we contemplate creation in the heavens and on the earth, we see that God is an amazing artist. 

Our world is indeed beautiful – yet broken.  Daily news broadcasts show us scenes of devastation and despair.  No wonder we groan with all of creation, longing for God to bring about our full restoration. 

What God has begun in us, he will one day bring to completion – healed bodies and minds, restored relationships, perfect justice, perfect shalom!  That is our hope and destiny in Christ. 

From now until then, we are caught up in God’s creative plan – not just as observers, but also as participants.  As God uses our skills and creative gifts to bless people, we join in his restoration work of making all things new. 

Artists have the capacity to infuse this broken world with hope. God-willing, this Sunday we will have an ‘artist in residence’ painting during both services.  Come along for a glimpse and taste of shalom!

Pr Rolly

Bible Readings:   Psalm 19:1-6,   Exodus 35:30-36:2,   Romans 8:18-25
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
At our 10.30am service this Sunday during the message, Tanya Harrison will be sharing with the Kindy – Year 4 children her mission trip experience to Indonesia in the Education Centre.

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
Little Lambs Playgroup will meet for the last time this term at 10am in the church hall on Wednesday.  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.

SOUL Crew - Youth Ministry
This Friday is the Preliminary Final with Crows versus Geelong.  Rather than missing SOUL Crew or missing the football, we thought why not embrace the football and use this as a time of intergenerational fellowship amongst the congregation.  SOUL Crew leaders and young people have the pleasure of inviting everyone along to join them watching the game on the big screen at church, and then participate in some meaningful discussion at quarter time and half time.  For those family members that may not be into football we will be screening a movie in the education centre and there will be board games to play as well.  Cost is $2 to cover the cost of pizza at half time.  Cans of soft drink will be available for $1.   We would love to see you all at 7.00pm until final siren.

A lot of things happening with our young people, in events, in worship and serving, which is so exciting.  Please contact me for further details regarding youth ministry - Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or Margot.Mertin@paravista.org.au

Para Vista Women's Fellowship
Please attend our two meetings in OCTOBER. Especially the first on Tuesday, October 3rd. At this meeting we will be interested to hear your thoughts and ideas about how our 2018 program is to be structured. All ideas will be considered and discussed and the committee are hoping  to hear many contributions from you, the members.

Our second October meeting is to be on Tuesday, 31st . We encourage you to attend each of these meetings to ensure the future planning of our 2018 Fellowship.  There is no Fellowship meeting in November.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

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

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

FOSSILS fundraising concert
Tickets are now on sale for the FOSSILS live in concert. The FOSSILS (Folkies of the Sixties Sing Iconic Legendary Songs), featuring Peter Combe, Brian Loffler, Alan Hartley, Hugh Rudham and Monica Christian, will bring to life the best folk songs of the 60s and 70s.

This year, we are extending the event and invite you to join us early, from 6pm, for live pre-show entertainment, drinks and appetisers. There will also be a pop-up op shop and mystery boxes to be won! All proceeds support our programs helping vulnerable families and children, many of which are run entirely on the generosity of our donors.

When: Friday, September 29th
Where: Concordia College Chapel, corner of Cheltenham St & Balmoral St, Highgate
Time: Pre-show entertainment from 6pm, concert doors open 7.15pm
Tickets: Adults $25, Concession/Pensioner/Unwaged $15, Group of 10+ $20, Children $10

For tickets or enquiries, phone 8269 9333 or book online at trybooking.com/rjsn 

Lutheran Nurses Association of Australia
Our meeting is Monday, September 25th, at 7.30 pm at 137 Archer Street, North Adelaide. Our guest speaker is Rachele Tullio; Dip T, Grad Dip, M Ed PhD, from the stroke foundation.

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

“Two are better than one...

for if they fall, one will lift up the other”

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Shaped for Justice

Depending on your age, if I were to say the word ‘justice,’ various images might come to mind. Perhaps some who lived through the 60’s remember the young boys from ‘The Terrific Adventures of the Terrible 10.’  If you survived the 70’s, ‘Doctor Down Under.’ If you were fortunate to watch television in the 1980’s in Australia, maybe Professor Poopsnaggle’s Steam Zeppelin. (I’m not making that up.)

The media influences our worldview in a much greater way than we could ever imagine, and most people who have visited the movie theatres in the last ten years are aware that the biggest box office hits include superhero characters of the likes of Superman, Batman, Wonder woman, Flash, Ironman, Thor… the list goes on and on.

And the typical theme of these superheroes is that there is a villain in the world who must be brought to justice. The heroes must use all of their strength to either kill them or place them in the hands of the ‘authorities,’ so that they can be properly punished.

But this form of justice is completely opposite to the biblical form of justice that Jesus portrays in his parable of the workers in the vineyard.  Jesus response to the ancients’ protest, ‘That’s not fair!’ is ‘Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money?  Or are you envious because I am generous?’

God’s generous is linked with his justice and is so far beyond the punitive restrictions that we have placed on his mercy, that we can’t quite comprehend this justice, paired with righteousness as the twin bases of the throne of God, without viewing it from a Shalom-like perspective.

This week, encounter one of Jesus’ most controversial parables as it speaks to our 21st century ‘Lucky Country.’  Then, after the service, join in our Coffee and Theology discussion on ‘The theology of justice as opposed to greed.’

Reid Matthias

Bible Readings:   Matthew 20:1-16, Psalm 89:14-18
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.
 
Weekly Message Sheets
To cut back on wastage the message sheets will no longer be handed out with the Connect Cards, but will be available upon request from the Worship Hosts.

Step Up
Our Step Up - Preparing for First Communion in 2017 program is in progress.  Please keep these young people and their families in your prayers as they explore Holy Communion.

Kingdom Kids
Our final Kingdom Kids for term 3 will be available this Sunday at our 10.30 service for Kindy – Year 7 aged children.

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
Little Lambs Playgroup meets in the church hall on Wednesday mornings during school term.  Our start time for the remainder of term 3 is 10am finishing round 11.30am.  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
This Friday we have our next Bible study - the series we are looking into is “Following Jesus in a selfie-centred world” – by Craig Groeschel.  We are will be discussing - Intimacy – the struggle with “Likes”.  Our young people really enjoyed looking at the last topic of ‘envy’ and it gave them some real insight, making them think about themselves and others in a completely different way.

Soft drink cans will be available for $1 and hot chocolate will also be available.  Looking forward to seeing you all Friday.

A lot of things happening with our young people, in events, in worship and serving, which is so exciting.  Please contact me for further details regarding youth ministry - Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or Margot.Mertin@paravista.org.au


From the Office

For Sale - or make an offer!
2 microwaves from old kitchen.  $30 each or make an offer.
Items can be viewed by contacting Stephen Zanker.

Building and facilities maintenance – occasional/casual
Good Shepherd is looking for a person who produces quality work in efficient time.  Such a person will have general handyman or carpentry skills to a high standard, ability to patch and paint walls, and will maintain a neat and tidy worksite.
Hours will be as need arises, and rates of pay according to skills required.  

Please contact Stephen on 8263 5087 or churchenquiries@paravista.org.au  for further information.

Finance Report 

Offerings
January - August  2017
Total Offerings – Budget $339,000 Actual $344,003 Surplus $5,003

Budget Summary
January – July 2017
Total Income – Budget $330,895 Actual $338,600 Surplus $7,705
Total Expenses – Budget $319,326 Actual $304,262 Deficit $15,064

Notes since last Board meeting:
• August offerings were under Budget, with REG below average for the year and plate just above expectations.
• Offerings are maintaining a buffer above budget.
• Income is over budget due to Offerings and Interest received over budget.
• Expenditure continues to be below budget.

Ignite Budget Update
• We received $3,330 in August for the Ignite the Future building fund and we have now reached the pledge target. 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.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

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

LCC job vacancies
Several job opportunities have become available at Lutheran Community Care in the last week. Please visit www.lccare.org.au/careers.html for more information.

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

FOSSILS fundraising concert
Tickets are now on sale for the FOSSILS live in concert. The FOSSILS (Folkies of the Sixties Sing Iconic Legendary Songs), featuring Peter Combe, Brian Loffler, Alan Hartley, Hugh Rudham and Monica Christian, will bring to life the best folk songs of the 60s and 70s.

This year, we are extending the event and invite you to join us early, from 6pm, for live pre-show entertainment, drinks and appetisers. There will also be a pop-up op shop and mystery boxes to be won! All proceeds support our programs helping vulnerable families and children, many of which are run entirely on the generosity of our donors.

When: Friday, September 29th
Where: Concordia College Chapel, corner of Cheltenham St & Balmoral St, Highgate
Time: Pre-show entertainment from 6pm, concert doors open 7.15pm
Tickets: Adults $25, Concession/Pensioner/Unwaged $15, Group of 10+ $20, Children $10

For tickets or enquiries, phone 8269 9333 or book online at trybooking.com/rjsn.

https://www.growministries.org.au/ 

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up,

 just as in fact you are doing.”

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Shaped for Reconciliation

We don’t often think about how difficult reconciliation is, or even that there are steps in the process.  For most of us, reconciliation is an alien concept as transubstantiation: we’ve heard the term before, but as for what it’s really about…

This week, we’re taking a journey to understand the immensely rewarding but inherently problematic path to rediscovering shalom through reconciliation.  We don’t stop at forgiveness; that is simply the first step and then we move to repair the connection so that we have relationship, covenant, community and faithfulness restored.

The entire Bible is a book of reconciliation. 
In fact, Paul writes specifically about it in Romans 5:8-10,

But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us.  Much more surely then, now that we have been justified by his blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath of God.  For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more surely, having been reconciled, will we be saved by his life.

Find out through the story of Peter how God reconciles himself to us through Christ so that we might do the same for others. 

Bible Readings:   2 Corinthians 5:10-21, John 21:15-19
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Weekly Message Sheets
To cut back on wastage the message sheets will no longer be handed out with the Connect Cards, but will be available upon request from the Worship Hosts.

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 is in progress.  Please keep these young people and their families in your prayers as they explore Holy Communion.

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids will be available this Sunday at our 10.30 service for 10 month – Year 4 aged children. 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
Little Lambs Playgroup meets in the church hall on Wednesday mornings during school term.  Our start time for the remainder of term 3 is 10am finishing round 11.30am.  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 we held our first bible study.  Some very interesting discussions around envy and contentment came up, and how it can effect every single one of us.  We learnt some grounding strategies and also how to use scripture to help us overcome these struggles. This will be fortnightly, running opposite nights to our youth events.  The series we are looking into is “Following Jesus in a selfie-centred world” – by Craig Groeschel.

This Friday we have our next event – Jesus- Who Am I – Part IV.  We are having a Girl / Guy night with a difference – we will be having a “Battle of The Sexes”.  Lots of fun and games planned, as well as some quiet girl/guy discussion time.  There will be supper at the usual cost of $2 and we are now offering $1 cans of soft drink for purchase as well.  Looking forward to seeing you all then.

A lot of things happening with our young people, in events, in worship and serving,  which is so exciting.  Please contact me for further details regarding youth ministry - Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or Margot.Mertin@paravista.org.au

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

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) 12th September contact@maranathahealth.org

From the Office

For Sale - or make an offer!
Shelving 3400mm  long, 430mm deep, and 1170mm  high constructed of timber and steel. $40 or make an offer.

2 microwaves from old kitchen.  $30 each or make an offer.

Items can be viewed by contacting Stephen Zanker.

Building and facilities maintenance – occasional/casual
Good Shepherd is looking for a person who produces quality work in efficient time.  Such a person will have general handyman or carpentry skills to a high standard, ability to patch and paint walls, and will maintain a neat and tidy worksite.

Hours will be as need arises, and rates of pay according to skills required.  

Please contact Stephen on 8263 5087 or churchenquiries@paravista.org.au  for further information.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

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

LCC job vacancies
Several job opportunities have become available at Lutheran Community Care in the last week. Please visit www.lccare.org.au/careers.html for more information.

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

FOSSILS fundraising concert
Tickets are now on sale for the FOSSILS live in concert. The FOSSILS (Folkies of the Sixties Sing Iconic Legendary Songs), featuring Peter Combe, Brian Loffler, Alan Hartley, Hugh Rudham and Monica Christian, will bring to life the best folk songs of the 60s and 70s.

This year, we are extending the event and invite you to join us early, from 6pm, for live pre-show entertainment, drinks and appetisers. There will also be a pop-up op shop and mystery boxes to be won! All proceeds support our programs helping vulnerable families and children, many of which are run entirely on the generosity of our donors.

When: Friday, September 29th
Where: Concordia College Chapel, corner of Cheltenham St & Balmoral St, Highgate
Time: Pre-show entertainment from 6pm, concert doors open 7.15pm
Tickets: Adults $25, Concession/Pensioner/Unwaged $15, Group of 10+ $20, Children $10

For tickets or enquiries, phone 8269 9333 or book online at trybooking.com/rjsn.

Items needed
LCC’s op shop at Blair Athol is in need of ornaments, vases, coffee cups, water glasses, saucepans, light electrical items and any other household items.

Our emergency relief program is also in need of blankets and bedsheets (single, double and queen) and pillows.

If you can help donate any of these items, please drop by 307 Prospect Road, Blair Athol.

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

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;

I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”

Psalm 32:8