Believing is seeing

This Sunday at Good Shepherd
This Sunday at Good Shepherd we are looking at those times in our faith journey when we experience doubt. Faith requires us to believe in things that we cannot see and this does not always come easily to us. It’s normal to have doubts about who God is and how he is at work in our lives.

Our theme this week is: ‘Believing is seeing’ and we will be looking at the story of Thomas who doubted the disciples story that Jesus had risen from dead. Thomas’ doubts turned into faith and we can learn a lot from this story about dealing with our doubts.

Bible Readings: John 20:19-31

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
There will be no Kingdom Kids this week as we are now on holidays.  Activity folders will be available for the children and Personal Journals available for the older children for use during services.

Faith at Home
April booklet out now! Pick up a copy of the April booklet at the Kingdom Kids Sign In desk, parenting room and children’s activity folders.

Step Up
Step Up is our first communion course for children in Year 5. Year 5 children will be sent a letter of invitation to attend. Our course this year begins on Sunday 3rd May with a lunch for children and their families at the school. Over the following four Friday night’s 8-29 May, our facilitator Mary Jo Zwar will lead the evening sessions.   

If you do not receive a letter within the next couple of weeks, please contact the church front office and we will send one out to you. Thank you for your co-operation.

Novo! 2015
17-20 April 2015 at Cornerstone College, Mt Barker for School Years 7-12
For more information and to register go to www.blueprintministries.org.au/camps/novo

Kathy L.
Children and Family Support Worker

From the Office

Thank you
Thank you to all the members who gave the gift of parking in either the Mattiske car park or on the school oval for the Easter services and allowing our visitors to park close to the entrance of the church.  Your assistance was appreciated. 

Budget 2015
January thru March 2015
Total Offering - Budget $127,800    Actual $122,010. DEFICIT $5,790

Notes to report

• Offerings in March were under budget by $2,690. 
• Plate offering was again in line with budget while REG was below budget by $2,670. 
• Total offering below budget by same amount that REG is below budget.
• January & February expenses are slightly below expectations except for Plant.

Regular Electronic Giving (REG)
Thank you for returning your Impact 2014 slips.  This assisted the finance team and board to ably formulate the budget for 2015.   For those who are altering their giving through REG or wish to start giving via REG the appropriate forms are available from the information rack at the rear of the auditorium or via this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg

Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details
If transferring from an LLL account, use account number 52752S1, BSB 704942.
If transferring from another banking institution, use account number 100354939, BSB 704942

Name Badges
Wear your name badge this Sunday and introduce yourself to any new people or visitors.

Communications Folder
A communications folder is available in the kitchen to the right of the door as you enter from the passage way. Instead of approaching staff on Sundays, please use this folder to communicate things like: misplaced items, minor maintenance issues, cleaning products or kitchen supply shortages. This will allow our staff to worship and not feel compelled to carry out duties on their day off. Alternatively, you can email the Church Office churchenquiries@paravista.org.au

Vacancy
An opportunity exists for a volunteer to remove the rubbish bins from the street on a Monday evening and return them to the bin store.  All expressions of interest please contact Stephen on szanker@paravista.org.au, the office on 8263 5087 or mark bins on your connect card.

Gardening
The gardens at our facility are low maintenance and require very little to maintain.  Assistance is required from a member/family that may be able to spend an hour a month at their leisure to maintain one small garden section to help keep our facility looking great. Please mark your connect card with ‘Garden Help’ or contact Stephen on 82635087 or szanker@paravista.org.au

Noticeboard

FoLA Film Festival 'Seeds that Sprout'
The next Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting is on Monday 20th April. To launch Lutheran Archives Film digitisation appeal, Archivists Rachel Kuchel and Janette Lange will show and narrate a series of films from the Archives collection. Please come along to Bethlehem House, Flinders Street in the city, 7.30 pm.  Supper & gold coin donation.

Organists Meet and Swap
Cost: $12 payable on the day
Light lunch, refreshments, participants ‘packs’
Registrations due by Friday 24th April to: joymildren@hotmail.com
or post to 8 Cambridge St, Vale Park, 5081
Enquiries: Joy Mildren 8367 9969/ 0458 650 135 or Barb Mattiske 8365 3033
A fantastic networking opportunity for all who are passionate about music in worship

“Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs”

Proverbs 10:12

Easter Edition

This Sunday at Good Shepherd
This Sunday we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection.  In a sense, every Sunday celebrates this.  It can become so familiar to us that we end up unmoved by it: “Hmm! Jesus’ rising from the dead?  Yeh, I know. So what?”

Those first disciples who encountered the risen Jesus were never the same again! They were transformed: from fearful people in hiding, to publicly proclaiming the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection to ALL!  They were so convinced that God had acted once and for all in Jesus, that they didn’t want anyone to miss out on the significance. 

How can the resurrection of Jesus be more like that for us - from information to transformation?

Come and join with us on Sunday to find out!

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.

This weekend at Good Shepherd
We have a great weekend of services planned to help you enter into the Easter story and celebrate the saving work of Jesus through his death and resurrection.

Maundy Thursday 7.30 pm with Holy Communion - Condemnation or restoration? 
Good Friday 8.45am & 10.30am - Would you die for you? 
Easter Sunday 8.45am and 10.30am with Holy Communion - Easter changes everything

Our Easter services attract a large number of visitors who we can bless in the following ways-

• Make it easy for them to find a car park by either parking on the school oval or in Mattiske’s carpark.
• Fill the church from the front rows so first time visitors do not have to walk all the way down the front to find a seat.
• If you arrive early sit in the middle of rows so that people do not have to climb over you to get to a seat.
• Bring a packet of hot cross buns on Good Friday to share at morning tea.
• Smile and say hello to people, especially those by themselves.

We look forward to you joining us for this very special time in the life of our church.

Hot cross buns for Good Friday
As part of our Easter celebrations we will be serving hot cross buns for morning tea on Good Friday. If you are able to bring a plate of hot cross buns, cut, buttered and ready to serve, that would be greatly appreciated. Please put the buns in the kitchen before service so those people rostered for morning tea can serve them. Thankyou

Kingdom Kids
We hope you enjoyed visiting the stations after the Palm Sunday service and that you used this opportunity to prepare your heart for Easter!

There will be no Kingdom Kids this week as we are now on holidays. Activity folders will be available for the children and Personal Journals available for the older children for use during services.

Faith at Home
April booklet out now! Pick up a copy of the April booklet at the Kingdom Kids Sign In desk, parenting room and children’s activity folders.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Next Wednesday Playgroup will have their last session for Term 1 and will be making a “Jelly Bean Prayer”! Come along straight after dropping off your children at school for a morning of pre-school fun, coffee and a chat!

Step Up
Step Up is our first communion course for children in Year 5. Year 5 children will be sent a letter of invitation to attend. Our course this year begins on Sunday 3rd May with a lunch for children and their families at the school. Over the following four Friday night’s 8-29 May, our facilitator Mary Jo Zwar will lead sessions from 7pm.   

If you do not receive a letter within the next couple of weeks, please contact the church front office and we will send one out to you. Thank you for your co-operation.

Novo! 2015
17-20 April 2015 at Cornerstone College, Mt Barker for School Years 7-12
For more information and to register go to www.blueprintministries.org.au/camps/novo

Kathy L.
Children and Family Support Worker

Para Vista Women's Fellowship
On Tuesday, 7th April, we invite you to join our meeting in the Church Hall to hear about the Home Care Today services offered by COTA, Council Of The Aging, through the Commonwealth of Social Services. These services support and encourage people to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.

In July, 2015, changes will be made to these services. We have a guest speaker coming on that day to share her knowledge of the existing services and how they may be changed. Her talk will begin at approximately 1.45pm in the Good Shepherd Hall. You are, of course, welcome to join our whole meeting, which commences at 1.00pm on that day.

From the Office

A blessing for Easter
Please consider parking in either the Mattiske car park or on the school oval leaving the parks close to the entrance of the church as a blessing for our visitors.  These arrangements will be in place for both Good Friday and Easter Sunday.  Parking signs will be in place and your assistance in following directions is appreciated. 

Vacancy
An opportunity exists for a volunteer to remove the rubbish bins from the street on a Monday evening and return them to the bin store.  For all expressions of interest, please contact Stephen on szanker@paravista.org.au, the office on 8263 5087 or mark “bins” on your connect card.

Daylight Saving
Remember to turn clocks back one hour as Daylight Saving Time finishes at 3am this Sunday morning.

First Aid
As part of providing child safe programs for our children we are required to have safety management systems in place.  To assist our leaders and teams, anyone with a current first aid certificate is requested to provide a copy to the office for recording.  Your services would only be required in the unlikely event that minor assistance is required.

A view of Adelaide to be experienced could be gained while assisting in the cleaning of the gutters. The task only involves an hour of time while being able to gain a view of the surrounding area not normally seen by others. Please contact Stephen or the office on
8263 5087 or put your intention to be part of the “View Adelaide with a difference” team on your Sunday Connect card.

Noticeboard

LCC Foster Care - Upcoming information sessions
Wednesday 8 April 2015 6.30-8.30pm
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Cnr Second & Seventh Streets, Gawler

RSVP by calling our friendly staff at 08 8337 8787 or email fostercare@lccare.org.au

Position Vacant - District Administrator
The District Administrator ensures the business affairs of the Lutheran Church of Australia, South Australia and Northern Territory District are conducted in accordance with sound financial and management practices. Job and Person Specifications are available at http://www.sa.lca.org.au.

Enquiries to Michelle Storie via E: districtadministrator@sa.lca.org.au or phone 8267 5211. Please apply by email including a resume and covering letter addressing the Essential Requirements.
Applications close Friday 10 April 2015

Position Vacant - Resourcing and Support Coordinator
Blueprint Ministries, the Department of Children, Youth and Family Ministry for the LCA SA/NT
Based at the LCA SA/NT District Office, North Adelaide, SA
Part-time (0.2FTE)
Applications close 10 April 2015
For more information contact fiona.weckert@sa.lca.org.au or phone 82675211
 

Family First SA - Traineeship Vacancy 2015
The Traineeship is:

• Open to school leavers and persons 17-24 years of age (inclusive), or persons under 30 years, however conditions apply
• For 1 year
• Includes 4 days in the office and a compulsory 1 day a week attendance at TAFE to complete a Certificate III in Business Administration
• Remuneration: up to maximum $31,195 per annum

To officially apply for this position
Refer to application process at:  https://apply.sa.gov.au/jobs/Pages/JobsSA.aspx .
The Traineeship Vacancy Code is 2015-2607. 
Applications are open from 27th March and close on 10th April 2015.
Please do not send your application to Parliament House.

FoLA Film Festival 'Seeds that Sprout'
The next Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting is on Monday 20th April. To launch Lutheran Archives Film digitisation appeal, Archivists Rachel Kuchel and Janette Lange will show and narrate a series of films from the Archives collection. Please come along to Bethlehem House, Flinders Street in the city, 7.30 pm.  Supper & gold coin donation.

Organists Meet and Swap
Cost: $12 payable on the day
Light lunch, refreshments, participants ‘packs’
Registrations due by Friday 24th April to: joymildren@hotmail.com
or post to 8 Cambridge St, Vale Park, 5081
Enquiries: Joy Mildren 8367 9969/ 0458 650 135 or Barb Mattiske 8365 3033
A fantastic networking opportunity for all who are passionate about music in worship

“You killed the author of life,

but God raised him from the dead.

We are witnesses of this.”

Acts 3:15

Reshaping the temple (Palm Sunday)

This Sunday at Good Shepherd

This week we celebrate Palm Sunday. We continue our sermon series for Lent called ‘Shaped by the cross.’ This Sunday we’re looking at what Jesus was saying to us when he cleared the temple of all the animals, stalls and people who were buying and selling.

While the original Palm Sunday occurred nearly 2000 years ago Jesus wants us all to have our own Palm Sunday experience where we welcome him into our hearts and lives and allow him to rearrange things so we can have a personal encounter with God.

Bible Readings: Luke 19:28-20:2

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.

Hot cross buns for Good Friday
As part of our Easter celebrations we will be serving hot cross buns for morning tea on Good Friday. If you are able to bring a plate of hot cross buns, cut, buttered and ready to serve, that would be greatly appreciated. Please put the buns in the kitchen before service so those people rostered for morning tea can serve them. Thankyou

Kingdom Kids
There will be no Kingdom Kids this week as the children will be joining us in worship for Palm Sunday.  After the 10.30 service, visit ‘stations’ together as a family to prepare your heart for Easter.  You can also begin your ‘Journey with Jesus’ by collecting Easter tract cards.  One of our members – Justine Gallasch – has designed the beautiful artwork for the ‘Journey with Jesus’ booklets and cards for you to collect over Easter and take home and talk about with your family.

Faith at Home
April booklet out now!  Pick up a copy of the April booklet at the Kingdom Kids Sign In desk and in the parenting room. Last week for Lent calendars and Lent activity sheets - available in the children’s activity folders.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Next Wednesday at Playgroup, I will be coming in to share an Andrew McDonough Easter story about Dave the Donkey!  Come along straight after dropping off your children at school for a morning of pre-school fun, coffee and a chat!

Step Up
Step Up is our first communion course for children in Year 5.  Year 5 children will be sent a letter of invitation to attend. 
Our course this year begins on Sunday 3rd May with a lunch for children and their families at the school.  Over the following four Friday night’s 8-29 May, our facilitator Mary Jo Zwar will lead sessions from 7pm.   
If you do not receive a letter within the next couple of weeks, please contact the church front office and we will send one out to you. Thank you for your co-operation.

Novo! 2015
17-20 April 2015 at Cornerstone College, Mt Barker for School Years 7-12
For more information and to register go to www.blueprintministries.org.au/camps/novo

Kathy L.
Children and Family Support Worker

Para Vista Women's Fellowship
On Tuesday, 7th April, we invite you to join our meeting in the Church Hall to hear about the Home Care Today services offered by COTA, Council Of The Aging, through the Commonwealth of Social Services. These services support and encourage people to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.

In July, 2015, changes will be made to these services. We have a guest speaker coming on that day to share her knowledge of the existing services and how they may be changed. Her talk will begin at approximately 1.45pm in the Good Shepherd Hall. You are, of course, welcome to join our whole meeting, which commences at 1.00pm on that day.

From the Office

A blessing for Easter
Please consider parking in either the Mattiske car park or on the school oval leaving the parks close to the entrance of the church as a blessing for our visitors.  These arrangements will be in place for both Good Friday and Easter Sunday.  Parking signs will be in place and your assistance in following directions is appreciated. 

Car parking attendants
Two parking attendants are still required for Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Assistance is required between the services .  Please contact Stephen or the office on 8263 5087 or szanker@paravista.org.au

Library
We have a great resource for use by all members available in the education centre. This has recently been upgraded with extra shelving space in both the children’s and main sections.
A library card can be obtained by marking your connect card or contacting the office. Please assist our volunteer librarian by not putting return items back onto the shelf but return them to the return box.  Happy reading.  Thankyou.

Gardening
The gardens at our facility are low maintenance and require very little to maintain.  Assistance is required from a member/family who may be able to spend an hour a month at their leisure to maintain one small garden section to help keep our facility looking great. Please mark your connect card with ‘Garden Help’ or contact Stephen on 8263 5087 or szanker@paravista.org.au

Vacancy
An opportunity still exists for respondents to any security alarm events needing investigation at the church.  All expressions of interest please contact Stephen on szanker@paravista.org.au the office on 8263 5087 or mark ‘security’ on your connect card.

Village Board
Since the Half Yearly meeting the Village Board has not had sufficient members to form a quorum for meetings. The following people have agreed to join the Board and fill the casual vacancies: Stephen Zanker, Rae Hofmanis, Merv Thiele and John Dolling. We thank them for agreeing to join the Board and permit the Board to legally make decisions and progress the work of the Board.

Free Bread and Goodies
Free bread, muffins and sweets are available in the church hall every Monday night at 6.30pm. Provided by the good people from Prices Bakery Hillcrest, Muffin Break and Ingle Bakehouse.

Pigeon Holes
The latest editions of the ‘Together’ Magazine and ‘Lutheran Media’ Newsletter are now in your pigeon hole.  Please remember to check out your pigeon hole each week.  Thanks.

Noticeboard

Stations of the Cross - An Easter Reflection
Good Friday 3 April 2015 from 1pm to 5pm
Dahlenburg Property - 10 Amberdale Road, Houghton.

LCC Foster Care - Upcoming information sessions
Wednesday 8 April 2015 6.30-8.30pm
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Cnr Second & Seventh Streets, Gawler

RSVP by calling our friendly staff at 08 8337 8787 or email fostercare@lccare.org.au

Position Vacant - District Administrator
The District Administrator ensures the business affairs of the Lutheran Church of Australia, South Australia and Northern Territory District are conducted in accordance with sound financial and management practices. Job and Person Specifications are available at http://www.sa.lca.org.au.

Enquiries to Michelle Storie via E: districtadministrator@sa.lca.org.au or phone 8267 5211. Please apply by email including a resume and covering letter addressing the Essential Requirements.
Applications close Friday 10 April 2015

Position Vacant - Resourcing and Support Coordinator
Blueprint Ministries, the Department of Children, Youth and Family Ministry for the LCA SA/NT
Based at the LCA SA/NT District Office, North Adelaide, SA
Part-time (0.2FTE)
Applications close 10 April 2015
For more information contact fiona.weckert@sa.lca.org.au or phone 82675211

LYSA Reunion Weekend 13 and 14 June at Nuriootpa
Invitation for all previous attendees of LYSA events and conventions.
Saturday night - Cocktail fundraising with silent auction, live band, refreshments. Youth Event
Sunday - Breakfast, Celebration Worship Service, BBQ Lunch.
We'd love some memorabilia from 1966 onwards (especially photos).
Please email Karen kpkjsumm1@bigpond.com.
If you would like to donate an auction item, please contact Tim tleckert@bigpond.com
All the details for weekend can be found at www.lysareunion.org.

“Know that wisdom is such to your soul;

if you find it, there will be a future,

and your hope will not be cut off”

Proverbs 24:14

Shaping our response to evil

This Sunday at Good Shepherd
We are continuing our sermon series for Lent: ‘Shaped by the cross’. 
This Sunday we’re looking at how the cross shapes our response to evil. 



We Aussies have a high regard for a fair go. Our young adults are big on social justice. Our schools keep upholding the value of respecting one another – and each other’s property. But what happens when people commit evil or do wrong against you?  How do you react to that? 

Jesus tells us:
“Love your enemies … do good to those who hate you …” (Luke 6:27)
“If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also.” (Luke 6:29). 
Such a response is not natural. It’s supernatural! 

Jesus’ cross shapes us so that we are not overcome by evil; but rather overcome evil with good!

Bible Readings: Matthew 5:38-45a, Romans 12:14–21

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.

A change to our staff team
Unfortunately Mark Welke will not be continuing in the role of Worship Support Team Leader due to health reasons. For the sake of his wellbeing Mark felt it was best for him and the future of the worship ministry to step down from the role. Please keep Mark’s health in your prayers. Merv Thiele, a current worship team leader and member will be stepping up into this role.

Helping people of Vanuatu affected by cyclone Pam
Cyclone Pam has affected up to 200,000 people in Vanuatu. An estimated 42,000 houses are damaged, and 15,000 completely destroyed.  Food is in short supply. Water is in many cases contaminated.

You can help the people of Vanuatu by donating to Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS) who will channel your support to churches and agencies on the ground in Vanuatu. You can donate to ALWS by calling 1300 763 407 or online http://www.alws.org.au/   

Easter Service Times
Maundy Thursday - 7.30pm - Service with Holy Communion
Good Friday - 8.45am & 10.30am - Good Friday Experience
Easter Sunday - 8.45am & 10.30am - Celebration service with Holy Communion

Hot cross buns needed for Good Friday
As part of our Easter celebrations we will be serving hot cross buns for morning tea on Good Friday. If you are able to bring a plate of hot cross buns, cut, buttered and ready to serve, that would be greatly appreciated. Please put the buns in the kitchen before service so those people rostered for morning tea can serve them. Thankyou

Kingdom Kids is happening again this Sunday!  This will be our last Kingdom Kids session for Term 1.  Some of our zones will be preparing their station for Palm Sunday.

Faith at Home
Pick up a copy of the March booklet at the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk, in the parenting room or from the children’s activity folders.

Lent calendars and Lent activity sheets are available in the parenting room, at the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk and in the children’s activity folders.  There are also ideas for making pretzels and a clove candle at the sign-in desk and in the parenting room.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup is on again Wednesday.  Come along straight after dropping of your children at school for a morning of pre-school fun, coffee and a chat!

Novo! 2015
17-20 April 2015 at Cornerstone College, Mt Barker for School Years 7-12
For more information and to register go to www.blueprintministries.org.au/camps/novo

Kathy L.
Children and Family Support Worker

Maranatha Health Update
Planning for a new project in Fort Portal, Uganda is well underway. An operating theatre in a shipping container is being sent from Adelaide. We have a new facility, 2 doctors and a host of local staff to run a new health care clinic for children, and become a training centre to make a positive lasting change in Uganda.

There is a Cocktail style evening coming up on Friday 24th April, where you will hear all about recent developments. Get a group together and save the date!

At a local level here at Para Vista, we are holding a home produce stall this Sunday 22nd March after both services to support Maranatha Health in Uganda. If you like to cook or bake we would love to receive your donations. We hope to have a wide variety of items for sale, so please support Maranatha Health in some way.
For more information please contact Julie Freund or Bronwyn Holliday.

Para Vista Women's Fellowship
On Tuesday, 7th April, we invite you to join our meeting in the Church Hall to hear about the Home Care Today services offered by COTA, Council Of The Aging, through the Commonwealth of Social Services. These services support and encourage people to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.

In July, 2015, changes will be made to these services and we have a guest speaker coming on that day to share her knowledge of the existing services and how they may be changed. Her talk will begin at approximately 1.45pm in the Good Shepherd Hall. You are; of course, welcome to join our whole meeting, which commences at 1.00pm on that day. 

Notes from March Board meeting

• Issues discussed at the March Board meeting included:
• Initial results from the congregational survey conducted in February
• Sections of the Governance and Administration review conducted by the LCA. This will be voted on at Synod in September.
• 2016 will be the 50th Anniversary of the congregation. The Board is looking at setting up a team to plan our celebrations.
• The Board has had discussions on how our congregation can effectively respond to Natural Disasters such as the recent bushfires.
• Louisa Kemp was appointed as our second delegate to Synod

Free Bread and Goodies
Free bread, muffins and sweets are available in the church hall every Monday night at 6.30pm. Provided by the good people from Prices Bakery Hillcrest, Muffin Break and Ingle Bakehouse.

Noticeboard

Stations of the Cross - An Easter Reflection
Good Friday 3 April 2015 from 1pm to 5pm
Dahlenburg Property - 10 Amberdale Road, Houghton.

Position Vacant - District Administrator
The District Administrator ensures the business affairs of the Lutheran Church of Australia, South Australia and Northern Territory District are conducted in accordance with sound financial and management practices. Job and Person Specifications are available at http://www.sa.lca.org.au.

Enquiries to Michelle Storie via E: districtadministrator@sa.lca.org.au or phone 8267 5211. Please apply by email including a resume and covering letter addressing the Essential Requirements.
Applications close Friday 10 April 2015

Position Vacant - Resourcing and Support Coordinator
Blueprint Ministries, the Department of Children, Youth and Family Ministry for the LCA SA/NT
Based at the LCA SA/NT District Office, North Adelaide, SA
Part-time (0.2FTE)
Applications close 10 April 2015
For more information contact fiona.weckert@sa.lca.org.au or phone 82675211

LYSA Reunion Weekend 13 and 14 June at Nuriootpa
Invitation for all previous attendees of LYSA events and conventions.
Saturday night - Cocktail fundraising with silent auction, live band, refreshments. Youth Event
Sunday - Breakfast, Celebration Worship Service, BBQ Lunch.
We'd love some memorabilia from 1966 onwards (especially photos).
Please email Karen kpkjsumm1@bigpond.com.
If you would like to donate an auction item, please contact Tim tleckert@bigpond.com
All the details for weekend can be found at www.lysareunion.org.

“Though he slay me, I will hope in him;

yet I will argue my ways to his face”

Job 13:15

This Sunday at Good Shepherd
This week we continue our sermon series for Lent called ‘Shaped by the cross’.  Today we’re looking at how the cross completely reshapes our self-image, how we regard ourselves.

When we look at Jesus Christ on the cross, two things jump out at us at once:

1. There’s something more seriously wrong with me than I ever thought, or else it wouldn’t take the death of the Son of God to deal with it. 
2. There’s something more valuable about me than I ever imagined. When I look up on the cross, I see what God was willing to pay to get you and me into his family. Amazing!

Last Sunday we looked at the first one. This Sunday, Pastor Noel is looking at how our value to God removes our fear and frees us to become the new people he makes us through the cross. Our theme this week is’ Shaped to become yourself.’

Bible Reading: Romans 8:1-17

We would love your input
Currently we are conducting a survey to help the church leadership better understand the results from the National Church Life Survey we conducted last year. You can complete the survey online any time by clicking on this link- https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GSPV0215. The survey can be accessed on iPads and smartphones. It may take a few seconds to load but is easily completed once loaded.

Your answers will provide invaluable information to help us better lead Good Shepherd into the mission God has given us. We appreciate the gift of your time to do this.

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.
 

Building Lasting Faith for Children and Teenagers
A few of us from Good Shepherd enjoyed this conference on Saturday. Here’s a thought for you:
“..We might be wise to consider how valued our children/youth are feeling in the congregation.  Are they segregated out to their specialised programs, or are there concrete ways that they are invited into belonging and significance in the congregation?  Inviting the congregation into intergenerational relationships provides places for the youth of the church to be recognised.  We could provide roles in the regular congregation for children/youth to fill, seek to add their opinions when making wider church decisions, match them up with an adult in a ‘prayer partner’ relationship or ask the children/youth to pray with you about church issues.

Discuss!

Kingdom Kids
is happening again this Sunday!  In Kool Zone one of our Junior Assistants,  Nicole Pfeiffer, will be sharing her experience of Transform.

Reminder: Child Safe training - last chance to register for Child Safe! 
I encourage all Kingdom Kids’ parents and adults to please attend over three consecutive Tuesday evenings: 17, 24, 31 March, 7:30-9:30pm here at Good Shepherd. This is a great opportunity to get trained up. All parents are encouraged to attend! Training is also available on Sunday 15th March at the LCA District Office North Adelaide from 12noon – 6.30pm.  Please advise if you can attend and I will register you.

Faith at Home
Pick up a copy of the March booklet at the Kingdom Kids Sign In desk, in the parenting room or from the children’s activity folders.

Lent calendars and Lent activity sheets are available in the parenting room, at the Kingdom Kids sign-in-desk and in the children’s activity folders.  There are also ideas for making pretzels and a clove candle at the sign in desk and in the parenting room.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Playgroup is on again Wednesday.  Come along straight after dropping of your children at school for a morning of pre-school fun, coffee and a chat!

Novo! 2015
17-20 April 2015 at Cornerstone College, Mt Barker. For School Years 7-12
For more information and to register go to www.blueprintministries.org.au/camps/novo

Kathy L.
Children and Family Support Worker

Card Stall
Sue Schenscher will be selling cards after both morning services this Sunday. There are new designs available to choose from including Mothers Day Cards. 

Bible Study Fellowship
Did you know that each Tuesday morning a group of about 60 women meet in our church? We come from all denominations and grow in our faith by studying God’s word together. This year we are exploring the life of Moses. We meet from 9.40 – 11.30am. Babies and pre-schoolers are also welcomed. Contact Sonia Hulme for more details on 7122 2903.

Maranatha Health
Planning for a new project in Fort Portal, Uganda is well underway. An operating theatre in a shipping container is being sent from Adelaide. We have a new facility, 2 doctors and a host of local staff to run a new health care clinic for children, and become a training centre to make a positive lasting change in Uganda.

There is a Cocktail style evening coming up on Friday 24th April, where you will hear all about recent developments. Get a group together and save the date!

At a local level here at Para Vista, we are holding a home produce stall on Sunday 22nd March after both services to support Maranatha Health in Uganda. If you like to cook or bake we would love to receive your donations. We hope to have a wide variety of items for sale, so please support Maranatha Health in some way.
For more information please contact Julie Freund or Bronwyn Holliday.

From the Office

Budget 2015
January thru February 2015
Total Offering - Budget $83,000            Actual $79,900. DEFICIT $3,100

January thru December 2014 – Total Income & Expenses
Total Income - Budget $560,000        Actual $531,822. SHORTFALL $28,178
Total Expenses - Budget $562,480        Actual $544,485. SHORTFALL $17,995

Budget for 2014 was a deficit of $2,480.      Actual was a deficit of $12,661

Notes

• Offerings in February were under budget by $2,000
• Plate offering have been in line with budget for both months while REG has been below budget.  REG is nearly $3,000 below the same time last year, however is in line with 2013 REG for January and February
• Expenses in December were around $4,000 over budget. This was caused by wages, When the budget for 2015 was being formulated we calculated there would be 26 fortnights (or pay periods) for 2015. However as the first pay period was due 2/1/15, our pay provider requested that pays be paid on 31/12/14. This resulted in 27 pay periods in 2014
• This will also mean we have 26 pay periods in 2015 as the first pay period due 1/1/16 will be paid on 31/12/15
• The result of this extra pay period in 2014 is around $10,760.  If this is removed from our deficit, it is then in line with the budgeted deficit of $2,480
• Other expense items are all generally below budget amounts for the year, a great result thanks to the staff
• The 2014 audit is due on 17th March.

Regular Electronic Giving (REG)
Thank you for returning your Impact 2014 slips. This assisted the finance team and board to ably formulate the budget for 2015.

For those who are altering their giving through REG or wish to start giving via REG the appropriate forms are available from the information rack at the rear of the auditorium or via this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg

Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details
If transferring from an LLL account, use account number 52752S1, BSB 704942.
If transferring from another banking institution, use account number 100354939, BSB 704942

Car parking attendants
We require traffic and parking help on Good Friday and Easter Sunday between the 8.45am and 10.30am services. Please mark your connect card, Easter parking, or contact Stephen or the office on 8263 5087.

Matiskies car park will be available for car parking for the Easter services. If you use this facility please do not park under the portico.

Internet/server failure
The server unit the church uses was off line due to a major failure for most of the past week.  Please accept our apology if this has caused any issues or communication problems.

Free Bread and Goodies
Free bread, muffins and sweets are available in the church hall every Monday night at 6.30pm. Provided by the good people from Prices Bakery Hillcrest, Muffin Break and Ingle Bakehouse.

Noticeboard

Lutheran Nurses
Monday 30th March 7.30pm at the District Office
137 Archer Street, North Adelaide with entry from the rear
Our guest speaker is Ann Pietsch, RN [ret] on “Coping with Dementia".
All are welcome not just nurses. If needed certificates for CPD are available.

LYSA Reunion Weekend 13 and 14 June at Nuriootpa
Saturday night - Cocktail fundraising with silent auction, live band, refreshments. Youth Event
Sunday - Breakfast, Celebration Worship Service, BBQ Lunch.
We'd love some memorabilia from 1966 onwards (especially photos).
Please email Karen kpkjsumm1@bigpond.com.
If you would like to donate an auction item, please contact Tim tleckert@bigpond.com
All the details for weekend can be found at http://lysareunion.weebly.com/

Position Vacant - District Administrator
The District Administrator ensures the business affairs of the Lutheran Church of Australia, South Australia and Northern Territory District are conducted in accordance with sound financial and management practices. Job and Person Specifications are available at http://www.sa.lca.org.au.

Enquiries to Michelle Storie via E: districtadministrator@sa.lca.org.au or phone 8267 5211. Please apply by email including a resume and covering letter addressing the Essential Requirements.
Applications close Friday 10 April 2015

“Know that wisdom is such to your soul;
if you find it,
there will be a future,
and your hope will not be cut off”
Proverbs 24:14

Shaped to know yourself

This Sunday at Good Shepherd
This week we continue our sermon series for Lent called ‘Shaped by the cross’.  Today and next week, we’re looking at how the cross completely reshapes our self-image, how we regard ourselves.

When we look at Jesus Christ on the cross, two things jump out at us at once:

1. There’s something more seriously wrong with me than I ever thought, or else it wouldn’t take the death of the Son of God to deal with it. 
2. There’s something more valuable about me than I ever imagined. When I look up on the cross, I see what God was willing to pay to get you and me into his family.  Amazing!

This Sunday we’re looking especially at the first one – and the following week Pr Noel will pick up on the second one. Our theme: Shaped to know yourself – the battle within. 

Bible Reading: Romans 8:1-17 NLT


We would love your input
Currently we are conducting a survey to help the church leadership better understand the results from the National Church Life Survey we conducted last year. You can complete the survey online any time by clicking on this link- https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GSPV0215. The survey can be accessed on iPads and smartphones. It may take a few seconds to load but is easily completed once loaded.

Your answers will provide invaluable information to help us better lead Good Shepherd into the mission God has given us. We appreciate the gift of your time to do this.

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 churchequiries@paravista.org.au with your request.

Helping Hand
A non-English speaking member is seeking a mentor to assist her in learning Basic English. If you think you would be able to help please contact the church office.

Kingdom Kids
There will be no Kingdom Kids this Sunday due to the long weekend.

Reminder: Child Safe training will be available over three consecutive Tuesday evenings: 17, 24, 31 March, 7:30-9:30pm here at Good Shepherd.  This is a great opportunity to get trained up.  All parents are encouraged to attend!  Training is also available on Sunday 15th March at the LCA District Office North Adelaide from 12noon – 6.30pm.  Please advise if you can attend and I will register you.

Faith at Home
Pick up a copy of the March booklet at the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk, in the parenting room or from the children’s activity folders.

Lent calendars and Lent activity sheets are available in the parenting room, at the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk and in the children’s activity folders.  There are also ideas for a Lent Wreath and Prayer Jar at the sign-in desk and in the parenting room.

Playgroup
Playgroup is on again Wednesday.  Come along straight after dropping off your children at school for a morning of pre-school fun, coffee and a chat!

Kathy L.
Children and Family Support Worker

Bible Study Fellowship
Did you know that each Tuesday morning a group of about 60 women meet in our church? We come from all denominations and grow in our faith by studying God’s word together. This year we are exploring the life of Moses. We meet from 9.40 – 11.30am. Babies and pre-schoolers are also welcomed. Contact Sonia Hulme for more details on 7122 2903.

Maranatha Health Update
Planning for a new project in Fort Portal, Uganda is well underway. An operating theatre in a shipping container is being sent from Adelaide. We have a new facility, 2 doctors and a host of local staff to run a new health care clinic for children, and become a training centre to make a positive lasting change in Uganda.

There is a Cocktail style evening, on Friday 24 April coming up where you will hear all about recent developments. Get a group together and save the date!

At a local level here at Para Vista, we are holding a home produce stall on Sunday 22 March after both services to support Maranatha Health in Uganda. If you like to cook or bake we would love to receive your donations. We hope to have a wide variety of items for sale, so please support Maranatha Health in some way. For more information please contact Julie Freund or Bronwyn Holliday.

From the Office

Gardening
The gardens at our facility are low maintenance and require very little to maintain.  Assistance is required from a member/family who may be able to spend an hour a month at their leisure to maintain one small garden section to help keep our facility looking great. Please mark your connect card with ‘garden help’ or contact Stephen on 8263 5087 or szanker@paravista.org.au

Surplus to requirement
Now that we have a new LED sign all the lettering from the old sign is surplus to requirement.  If anyone can make use of the lettering or know of someone who could, please contact Stephen, szanker@paravista.org.au, the office on 8263 5087 or mark ‘lettering’ on your connect card.

Free Bread and Goodies
Free bread, muffins and sweets are available in the church hall every Monday night at 6.30pm. Provided by the good people from Prices Bakery Hillcrest, Muffin Break and Ingle Bakehouse.

Noticeboard

Lutheran Community Care - Loaves & Fishes
This month we invite you to replenish our Emergency Relief shelves with:
Coffee, Pasta Sauce, Razors and Sanitary Pads
Thank you for helping us help others. Your LCC representative will ensure we receive your donation.

LCC Lenten Appeal - Help us light 1,500 Candles before Easter
As we enter the season of Lent we are asking our supporters, congregations and schools to help us reach our goal of lighting 1,500 candles to lighten the load of 1,500 people before Easter. We are well on this journey and have been able to support nearly 500 people but still need help to support the increase in people over the next month.

We invite you to think of ways you could help support the community work of LCC and ask that you join us in prayer during the 40 days of Lent. A daily prayer calendar is available to download on the LCC website www.lccare.org.au or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/LutheranCommunityCare to receive the daily prayer requests in your News Feed.

You can help to light the darkness in someone's life and give them hope as they learn to be a light for others. Visit our website at www.lccare.org.au or telephone 08 8269 9333 to make a donation that will make a real difference.

Living Legends of Lutheran schooling
The next Friends of Lutheran Archives meeting will feature guest speaker Barry Kahl with a legendary panel of former educators and teachers.
Monday 23rd March at 7.30pm
Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place, Adelaide
What was their own schooling like and what were the challenges and rewards of their life’s work in Lutheran schools, colleges and training colleges? Supper and gold coin donation.

Lutheran Nurses
Monday 30th March 7.30pm at the District Office
137 Archer St. North Adelaide with entry from the rear
Our guest speaker is Ann Pietsch, RN [ret] on “Coping with Dementia".
All are welcome not just nurses. If needed certificates for CPD are available.

LYSA Reunion Weekend 13 & 14 June at Nuriootpa
Saturday night - Cocktail fundraising with silent auction, live band, refreshments. Youth Event
Sunday - Breakfast, Celebration Worship Service, BBQ Lunch.
We'd love some memorabilia from 1966 onwards (especially photos).
Please email Karen kpkjsumm1@bigpond.com.
If you would like to donate an auction item, please contact Tim tleckert@bigpond.com
All the details for weekend can be found at http://lysareunion.weebly.com/

“So now there is no condemnation
for those who belong to Christ Jesus”

Romans 8:1

Shaped through perseverance

This Sunday at Good Shepherd
This week we continue our sermon series for Lent called ‘Shaped by the cross.’ When we place our faith in Jesus and accept what he gives us because of his death on the cross, everything changes. Romans 5:1 says, ‘Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ On the cross Jesus made peace with God for us.

Knowing we have peace with God profoundly changes the way we approach suffering in our lives. This week under the theme of ‘Shaped through perseverance’ we will look at how the cross enables us to not only persevere in our suffering, but also rejoice in our suffering. We hope you can join us.

Bible Reading: Romans 5:1-5; 1 Peter 1:3-8

A small change to the Weekly News
From now on there will be no short devotional article at the beginning of the Weekly News. These articles do take considerable time to write. Given the huge number of excellent devotional resources that are already available on the web, producing more and essentially duplicating what already exists is not a good use of our time. We hope you understand this decision.

In future our Weekly News will begin with a quick overview of what is happening on the coming Sunday. We will also be encouraging ministry teams to share short highlights from events they run as a way to celebrate what God is doing among us.

We would love your input
Currently we are conducting a survey to help the church leadership better understand the results from the National Church Life Survey we conducted last year. You can complete the survey online any time by clicking on this link- https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GSPV0215. The survey can be accessed on iPads and smartphones. It may take a few seconds to load but is easily completed once loaded.

Your answers will provide invaluable information to help us better lead Good Shepherd into the mission God has given us. We appreciate the gift of your time to do this.

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 churchequiries@paravista.org.au with your request.

Kingdom Kids
Kool Zone kids enjoyed their session on Sunday with their new teacher Kym Liebig. Kym brought in “The Faithdial” to illustrate the story of Gideon and his faith in God. Kym also shared his experience in intensive care with a brain aneurism and how his faith helped him during that time.

There will be no Kool Zone this Sunday 1 March as we will be staying in the service to witness a couple of our junior assistants being confirmed.

The Children and Family Ministry team met on Sunday morning to discuss the term ahead. Our next event is on Palm Sunday 29 March at the 10.30am service.

Reminder: Child Safe training will be available for three consecutive Tuesday evenings: 17, 24, and 31 March - 7:30-9:30pm here at Good Shepherd. This is a great opportunity to get trained up. You only have to do it once!  All parents are encouraged to attend! Training is also available on Sunday 15 March at the LCA District Office North Adelaide from noon – 6.30pm. Please advise if you can attend and I will register you.

Faith at Home
Last Sunday Pastor Rolly launched a Taking Faith Home resource. This Sunday we will have available a booklet that contains a month’s worth of daily bible readings. Pick up a copy at the Kingdom Kids sign-In desk, in the parenting room or from the children’s activity folders.

If you hadn’t already noticed - Lent has begun! Lent calendars and Lent activity sheets are available in the parenting room, at the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk and in the children’s activity folders. There are also ideas for a Lent Wreath and Prayer Jar at the sign-in desk and in the parenting room.

Playgroup
Playgroup is on again Wednesday. Come along straight after dropping of your children at school for a morning of pre-school fun, coffee and a chat!

Building Lasting Faith in Children and Teenagers
Saturday 7 March, 2015 9.30am-3.30pm at Clovercrest Baptist Church. This is a unique and informative event for parents, pastors, key leaders and volunteers. Australia’s young people are leaving the church… and not returning. Dr Dave Overholt and his daughter Karra will explore and unpack these two questions, and equip us with tools to make changes for a positive future.
Registrations close Tuesday 3 March.

Kathy L.
Children and Family Support Worker

Para Vista Women’s Fellowship
Next meeting on Tuesday 3 March, 1.00pm in the Church hall. Featuring Margie’s March Quiz.
Bible study: Pastor Noel Kluge and Devotion: Ragna Gaard. All Welcome.

Bible Study Fellowship
Did you know that each Tuesday morning a group of about 60 women meet in our church? We come from all denominations and grow in our faith by studying God’s word together. This year we are exploring the life of Moses. We meet from 9.40 – 11.30am. Babies and pre-schoolers are also welcomed. Contact Sonia Hulme for more details on 7122 2903.

Pigeon Holes
The pigeon holes have been re-calibrated this week. Please check out where yours has moved to and remember to check and empty your pigeon hole each week.
Thankyou!

Free Bread and Goodies
Free bread, muffins and sweets are available in the church hall every Monday night at 6.30pm. Provided by the good people from Prices Bakery Hillcrest, Muffin Break and Ingle Bakehouse.

Vacancies

Pastoral Care Workers (Previously known as “School Chaplains”)
Ingle Farm East PS and Para Hills Schools
Schools Ministry Group along with Salisbury Hills Inter-Church Network are seeking applications for 8 to 9 hour per week positions, commencing Term 2, 2015.
These positions exist to offer support to students, staff and the school community.
A Job and Person Specification, including details on “How to Apply”, is available from Schools Ministry Group on 8378 6800 or mail@smg.asn.au  Closing dates:  Friday 6 March, 4 pm

For details about the next Information Session on Tuesday 17 February go to:  www.smg.asn.au

Noticeboard

Beyond the Promise
Beyond the Promises is a teaching ministry that aims to bring Christians from a variety of communities and congregations together for a series of evening sessions. More information can be found in the Information rack and details will also be announced during Sunday service.

Lutheran Community Care - Loaves & Fishes
This month we invite you to replenish our Emergency Relief shelves with:
Coffee, Pasta Sauce, Razors and Sanitary Pads
Thank you for helping us help others. Your LCC representative will ensure we receive your donation.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved”

Acts 16:31

Shaped by forgiveness

This Sunday at Good Shepherd
This week we start a new series for Lent called ‘Shaped by the cross.’ When we place our faith in Jesus and accept what he gives us because of his death on the cross, everything changes. God makes us into new people. In this new series we look at how the cross of Jesus shapes who we are and the way we view the events in our lives.

We begin this Sunday by looking at how the forgiveness Jesus paid for on the cross shapes us into new people. We hope you can join us.

Bible Reading: Romans 5:6-10

A small change to the Weekly News
From now on there will be no short devotional article at the beginning of the Weekly News. These articles do take considerable time to write. Given the huge number of excellent devotional resources already available on the web, producing more and essentially duplicating what already exists is not a good use of our time. We hope you understand this decision.

In future our Weekly News will begin with a quick overview of what is happening on the coming Sunday. We will also be encouraging ministry teams to share short highlights from events they run as a way to celebrate what God is doing among us.

We would love your input
Currently we are conducting a survey to help the church leadership better understand the results from the National Church Life Survey we conducted last year. You may have already participated in the survey after service last Sunday. For those of you who missed out there will be another opportunity to complete the survey this Sunday.

Alternatively you can complete the survey online any time by clicking on this link- https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GSPV0215  The survey can be accessed on iPads and smartphones. It may take a few seconds to load but is easily completed once loaded.

All the written surveys will be entered into the online survey so you will be saving us time by completing it online. Your answers will provide invaluable information to help us better lead Good Shepherd into the mission God has given us. We appreciate the gift of your time to do this.


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 churchequiries@paravista.org.au with your request.

Kingdom Kids
Praise God – we have four people who have stepped forward to help out in Kool Zone once per term. God obviously desires this zone to continue! We still need more adult helpers but this is a great start. Sixteen children attended Kool Zone last Sunday – not including junior assistants who are to be included under our care. So we still need three Child Safe trained adults per Sunday.

Child Safe training will be available for three consecutive Tuesday evenings: March 17, 24, and 31 - 7:30-9:30pm here at Good Shepherd. This is a great opportunity to get trained up. You only have to do it once! All parents are encouraged to attend!

Training is also available on Sunday 15th March at the LCA District Office North Adelaide from noon – 6.30pm. Please advise if you can attend and I will register you.

Reminder: Children and Family Ministry Team Meeting this Sunday 22 March at 9.30am in the Education Centre/Library. All teachers, helpers and junior assistants are encouraged to attend.

Faith at Home
This Sunday we will be launching a Taking Faith Home resource. Have you been using your Faith 5 cards that were included in the Advent bags last year? If you didn’t receive one, there are Faith 5 bookmarks available at the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk and in the parenting room.

The Taking Faith Home booklet that we will be making available contains a month’s worth of daily bible readings. It is an easy way to get started reading your Bible as a family. Don’t worry if you miss the occasional reading. Do it when you can so that you’re being exposed to God’s Word and what He’s saying to you.

On Sunday the sheet being made available includes readings for Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. Future booklets will include readings for the whole month. Sunday’s sheet will be handed out as you leave. It will also be available at the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk and inserted into the children’s activity folders. Lent has begun! Lent calendars and Lent activity sheets are available in the parenting room, at the Kingdom Kids sign-in-desk and in the children’s activity folders.

Playgroup
Last week a group of ladies met to discuss the year ahead. Four ladies were in attendance and a plan was hatched for term 1. Watch this space!

Kathy L.
Children and Family Support Worker

Para Vista Women’s Fellowship
Next meeting on Tuesday 3rd March, 1.00pm in the Church hall Featuring Margie’s March Quiz
Bible study: Pastor Noel Kluge and Devotion: Ragna Gaard. All Welcome

Bible Study Fellowship
Did you know that each Tuesday morning a group of about 60 women meet in our church? We come from all denominations and grow in our faith by studying God’s word together. This year we are exploring the life of Moses. We meet from 9.40 – 11.30am. Babies and Pre-schoolers are also welcomed. Contact Sonia Hulme for more details on 7122 2903. 

From the Office

Notes from the Board
At the Half Yearly meeting in November there was no nomination for Congregational secretary. Enid Sutton has volunteered to fill this position. Her offer was gratefully accepted by the Board and we welcome her on board.

Notes from February Board meeting

• The Board is investigating the feasibility of putting in place a procedure to respond to natural disasters such as the recent bushfires.
• The Board is planning to undertake a review of all our facilities to work out what modifications need to be made so they better support our mission. When completed an interim report will be presented to the congregation for discussion.
• Next year the congregation celebrates its 50th year. We are looking for people who would be interested being involved in planning our celebration. If interested contact John Dolling or put 50th anniversary on your connect card.
• Preliminary discussions were held re some of the issues to be discussed at Synod later this year.

Ordination of women
Currently the Lutheran Church of Australia ordains only men as pastors. Over the last twenty years, the issue of whether scripture prohibits the ordination of women has been discussed and voted on at our General Synod without a change in our current position.

At the 2013 General Synod it became apparent that this issue needed further discussion and consideration. Between now and our next General Synod in October the issue of the ordination of women is open for discussion and there is a possibility that the Lutheran Church of Australia’s current position may change after this.

To help us think through this issue from both sides, the Lutheran Church has developed a website of resources to facilitate the conversation about women’s ordination. We encourage you to take some time to look at these resources and participate in the conversation. There are some suggestions on how to do this in the resources. You can access these by clicking on this link: http://owl.lca.org.au/

If you have any questions regarding this issue feel free to speak to one of the pastors. At this point in time we are not planning to host a local dialogue on the issue. If you are in a small group and would like to discuss this issue, why not use the ‘local dialogue’ resource on the website to facilitate a small group study? 

Meet ‘N’ Eat
The Monday night Meet 'N' Eat ministry continues its growth in 2015. At this week’s meeting we were blessed to have 62 guests attend which created a wonderful atmosphere. Our team of volunteers continues to welcome and work with these people from our community.

Free Bread and Goodies
Free bread, muffins and sweets are available in the church hall every Monday night at 6.30pm. Provided by the good people from Prices Bakery Hillcrest, Muffin Break and Ingle Bakehouse. 

Used postage stamps
Thanks to everyone who have donated their used stamps (and placed them in the “Stamps for Missions” boxes underneath the pigeon holes.) Many people have been involved in cleaning and distributing these stamps since the inception of the program in 1938. To date more than $378,000 has been raised for mission projects. The 2014 contribution was $13,223.

Projects for 2015 are five different mission areas in South East Asia and for a Bible translator working in PNG. There is a poster on the notice board with further information about these projects.

Thank you for your effort and please keep on bringing in your used stamps.

Vacancies

Pastoral Care Workers (Previously known as “School Chaplains”)
Ingle Farm East PS and Para Hills Schools
Schools Ministry Group along with Salisbury Hills Inter-Church Network are seeking applications for 8 to 9 hour per week positions, commencing Term 2, 2015.
These positions exist to offer support to students, staff and the school community.
A Job and Person Specification, including details on “How to Apply”, is available from Schools Ministry Group on 8378 6800 or mail@smg.asn.au  Closing dates:  Friday 6th March, 4 pm

For details about the next Information Session on Tuesday 17th February go to:  www.smg.asn.au

Noticeboard

Beyond the Promise
Beyond the Promises is a teaching ministry that aims to bring Christians from a variety of communities and congregations together for a series of evening sessions. More information can be found in the Information rack and details will also be announced during Sunday service.

“In the beginning was the Word,

and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.”

John 1:1 ESV