Weekly News

Friday, July 1, 2016

1 July 2016

Living questionable lives #2 – Changing the world one meal at a time

Last Sunday we began a new sermon series called Living questionable lives. By ‘questionable lives’ we mean living your life as a follower of Jesus in such a way that people become curious as to why your life is so positively different to theirs.
In fact it’s so surprising that they start asking you questions about it: “Why are you like this? Why do you live like this? Where did you get that from?” The goal of living a questionable life is to create natural opportunities for you to talk about your faith and the difference Jesus makes.
This Sunday we look at how Jesus regularly ate and drank with people and used the meal table as a setting to extend the love and grace of God to others. As we look at this practice of Jesus we discover that eating with others can play an important part in what it means to live a questionable life.

Bible Readings: John 2:1-12; Luke 14:1, 7-14

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

Kingdom Kids

After a great term, Kingdom Kids is on a school holiday break. There will be Activity Folders and Personal Journals available for the kids during worship.
Next term we will be making some changes to Kingdom Kids on Sunday mornings. Please keep an eye on the Weekly News and the Kingdom Kids Sign In Desk over the next few weeks for information and the reasons regarding these changes.
Kingdom Kids will be resuming in its new format on Sunday 31 July. Enjoy your holidays!

Faith at Home

Pick up a copy of the July Faith at Home booklet from the Kingdom Kids Sign-in desk or the parenting room. Or use the booklet via the Good Shepherd phone app!

• Pop into the church library and check out the new resources we have for kids and families to borrow! Watch this space for more info on what is now available…

Playgroup

Please join us for Little Lambs Playgroup next Wednesday 9:15am in the church hall. Anyone is welcome and we would love to see you! This will be our last playgroup for the term. Enjoy the school holidays and we will recommence on Wednesday 27th July.

Children and Family Ministry Team
Beth Einthal & Kathy Liebig

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.

Youth Ministry

Last Saturday we had 50 young people ranging in age from school years 5 to 12, from around the North Eastern Area, attend our dinner and movie night. We had a totally fun-filled 6 hours of fellowship, with food too of course! The movie Oddball was enjoyed by all, and we had a great motivational message given to us by Pastor Noel, based on the theme of the movie, being created as God’s masterpieces, even if we do feel like the odd one out at times. Another joint event is scheduled for August.

Ignite Youth is on again this Friday from 7-9.30pm and we are finishing the last of our “God’s Not Dead” study. I am really excited that we are having live music again this week with youth playing in the band. This is also the last event for this term. Youth will re-commence on Friday 29th July, stay tuned for the new term flyer. Also very exciting is the fact the youth will be playing in the band for worship this Sunday.
Further details regarding youth contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or mmertin@paravista.org.au

Summary Board June meeting

The following motion from the 50th Anniversary Team was accepted by the Board:
Based on the written survey and feedback the 50th Anniversary Team recommends that we proceed to obtain a costing for a blended version of options 3 & 5.
• 1 way traffic flow through the complex was discussed. Decided on 5 days a week (Monday thru Friday). To be monitored.
• Housekeeping audit of complex completed. Few issues identified.
• Request for assistance from Ferryden Park congregation discussed. To obtain additional information before making a decision.
• Offer from Women's Fellowship to provide a banner for Worship Centre discussed. To be followed up with Women's Fellowship.

Following our 30 days of prayer for June, the movie War Room will be screened at Good Shepherd this Sunday 3rd July, 4pm – 6pm. It is FREE.
The story is of a church-attending family that’s falling apart. An older woman, Miss Clara, mentors the wife and mum, encouraging her to read the Bible and pointing her to the power of Father God available through prayer in the name of Jesus.
It is an inspirational story - one that will encourage many hearts to keep trusting and turning to God in prayer.

Around 6pm, hot dogs will be served in the hall (gold coin donation).
We highly recommend War Room to you, your friends and families. It would also be an excellent activity for small groups.

Thank you from Lutheran Community Care

Thank you to all have participated in purchasing sausages from the sausage sizzles. A BBQ was procured for use by the centre. It has already been put to good use as shown in the photo with lots of smiling little faces. Being a bit cool outside, dads, kids and workers sat around the table inside enjoying the hot food.

Noticeboard

Professional standards Workshops / Child safe training
An updated schedule and additional information for the workshops and training can be found online here: http://www.sa.lca.org.au/?q=node/130. Please check your training is up to date and see your team leader if you are unsure.

LCA Vacancies

Full details: www.lca.org.au/employment
Member Services Support Officer - Contract until late 2017 applications close 6 July 2016

“I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken”

Psalm 16:8

Friday, June 24, 2016

Living Questionable Lives – #1. Surprising the World

This coming Sunday we begin a new sermon series: Living Questionable Lives. Now we are certainly not encouraging anyone to engage in unethical, illegal or immoral activities!!

By a questionable life, we mean living your life as a follower of Jesus in such a way that people become curious as to why your life is so positively different to theirs.

In fact it’s so surprising that they start asking you questions about it: “Why are you like this? Why do you live like this? Where did you get that from? Is there any chance I can have what you’ve got?”

The goal of living a questionable life is to create natural opportunities for you to talk about your faith and the difference Jesus makes. This series is based on a book by Australian pastor, author and teacher, Michael Frost: Surprise the World - The Five Habits of Highly Missional People.

This Sunday we will lay the platform for the series, and consider the first habit: Blessing. Just as the Early Christians did in their culture, we want to keep Surprising the World.

Bible Readings: Colossians 4:2-6; 1 Peter 3:15-16
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Lead Pastor Call Team Update
The Call Team met this week and reviewed the information from the pre-call survey and the congregational meeting held on 5th June. From this information four main characteristics were identified as desirable for the Lead Pastor. The role of the Call Team was clarified and tasks assigned.

A list of LCA pastors available for call is displayed on the rear wall of the hall. If you wish to nominate a pastor for consideration (from this list or others), please provide suggestions in writing. This can be done by placing the name in the labelled box in the hall, or email the church office churchenquiries@paravista.org.au. All submissions will be considered by the Call Team.

Thanks to members who have already proposed pastors for consideration. The names already received were discussed with the Bishop and remain on the list for consideration.

The Call Team will be meeting again on July 6th.

How can you help? The Call Team ask that you pray for wisdom and discernment as they seek God’s direction in reviewing and recommending pastors to the congregation. Please pray that God may lead us to call the right person for the role.
Keren Sutton

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids is on this Sunday. Activity folders will be available for the children and Personal Journals available for the older children for use during this service.

Next term we will be making some changes to Kingdom Kids on Sunday mornings. Please keep an eye on the Weekly News and the Kingdom Kids Sign In Desk over the next few weeks for information and the reasons regarding these changes.

Due to the upcoming school holidays, this Sunday will be our last Kingdom Kids session for Term 2. Kingdom Kids will be resuming in its new format on Sunday 31 July. Enjoy your holidays!

Faith at Home
June Faith at Home booklet out now! Grab your copy from the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk or the parenting room, OR you can access it via the Good Shepherd phone app.

Playgroup
Please join us for Little Lambs Playgroup next Wednesday 9:15am in the church hall. Anyone is welcome and we would love to see you!

Children and Family Ministry Team
Beth Einthal & Kathy Liebig

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.

Youth Ministry
Last week we had a great week continuing on with our study of the movie “God’s Not Dead”. We had the pleasure of live music from the leaders and youth combined which was awesome. They did a fantastic job, especially their rendition of our theme song “God’s Not Dead” I even received a “like” from the ‘Newsboys’ drummer himself on my Instagram post!!
Next Friday will be the final study in this series, as well as being the final event for the term.

Plans are well underway, and we have a large amount of youth registered from around the North Eastern region for our joint dinner and movie event being held here at Good Shepherd tomorrow afternoon/evening. It will be a fantastic time of fellowship.
Further details regarding youth contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814.

Fund Raising Luncheon
To all congregation members, PLEASE, support our Fundraising Luncheon in July. Men are most welcome to join this day. We plan to provide a delicious casserole luncheon with sweets to follow. There will be wine served and our entertainment will be from a guest speaker, an ambassador of the Cranio Facial Foundation of South Australia, Andrea Ogier. Husband, Norm, will operate the accompanying power point system to support her story and experiences. Price is $15.00 pp. Door prizes, too. Support our trading table.
WHERE: Good Shepherd Hall
WHEN:   Tuesday, July 5th, 12 noon
WHERE: Good Shepherd Church Hall, Montague Rd, Para Vista
WHY:      Funds for our Christ Centred projects in Asia and locally.
WHO:      Please book by contacting Ruth Oster at 8265 0221 or 0401 365 339.

From the office

30 Days of Prayer in June
Our 30 Days of Prayer at Good Shepherd is well underway. During the week different people have been gathering each evening at 7:30 -8:30pm (except Sundays) for a time of prayer. Already many of you have come and it has been lovely spending time together talking to God and seeking His guidance for our church and community. If you have not yet attended please be encouraged to join in. You do not have to stay for the full hour, and can listen rather than pray aloud if you want.

Sweet Aussie Grown Dried Apricots
Packs of 500g dried apricots at $12 each are available from the church office. Harvested and packed by Riverland Community Volunteers. Proceeds support Compassionate Ministries in Tonga through Nazcare Aust inc.

LCA Vacancies
Full details: www.lca.org.au/employment
Ministry Support Officer - 12 hours per week, applications close 28 June 2016
Administrative /Professional Standards Assistant - Full time, applications close 30 June 2016
Member Services Support Officer - Contract until late 2017 applications close 6 July 2016

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you,

because he trusts in you.”

Isaiah 26:3

Friday, June 17, 2016

Praying for those who don’t know Jesus

Do you have people in your life that you want to see come to faith in Jesus? Do you ever get discouraged and even despondent over their lack of response to God? You’ve tried sharing something of what you believe; you’ve prayed for them; and yet they still seem as far away from God as ever.

This Sunday we finish off our series called ‘Prayer: Growing deeper with God’ and we will be looking at how we can best pray for people who don’t know Jesus. Are there specific things we can pray for them? Can our prayers for these people be used to accomplish something spiritually strategic in their lives?

The answer is an emphatic “Yes!” As part of the amazing relationship we have with God, “Our Father in heaven”; we have access to Jesus’ spiritual authority to use for God’s purposes in this world.

Ephesians 1 says, ‘Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing.’ (Ephesian 1:3) In Christ we have every spiritual blessing Jesus has which includes his authority over the forces of evil in this world who are working against the plans and purposes of God in this world.

This Sunday we will look at how this authority works and how we can use it to strategically pray for others to come to faith in Jesus.

Bible Readings: Ephesians 1:3-6, 18-23; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids is on this Sunday. Activity folders will be available for the children and Personal Journals available for the older children for use during this service.

Faith at Home
June Faith at Home booklet out now! Grab your copy from the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk or the parenting room, OR you can access it via the Good Shepherd phone app.

Playgroup
Please join us for Little Lambs Playgroup next Wednesday 9:15am in the church hall. Anyone is welcome and we would love to see you!

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.

Youth Ministry

Youth is on this Friday night and we will be continuing with part 3 of our “God’s Not Dead” study – sharing similar faith with friends. We are going to have the pleasure of our youth leaders playing with our theme song for the term– “God’s Not Dead”, plus a couple of other worship songs too. Naturally we will have a game or two and of course there will be yummy food! Come along and bring a friend or two.
Cost is $2 to help cover the cost of supper.
Further details contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814

Joint North Eastern Lutheran Youth Event
This joint event includes years 5 and 6 as well as the year 7-12s. This promises to be a fun-filled event mixing with other young people in the area. Tickets on sale now via www.gspv250616.eventbrite.com.au Ticket sales close next Tuesday 21/6/16 @ 11pm so get in quick!! Feel free to bring a friend or two.
Further details contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814.

Fund Raising Luncheon
To all congregation members, PLEASE, support our Fundraising Luncheon in July. Men are most welcome to join this day. We plan to provide a delicious casserole luncheon with sweets to follow. There will be wine served and our entertainment will be from a guest speaker, an ambassador of the Cranio Facial Foundation of South Australia, Andrea Ogier. Husband, Norm, will operate the accompanying power point system to support her story and experiences. Price is $15.00 pp. Door prizes, too. Support our trading table.
WHERE: Good Shepherd Hall
WHEN: Tuesday, July 5th,12 noon
WHERE: Good Shepherd Church Hall, Montague Rd., Para Vista
WHY: Funds for our Christ Centred projects in Asia and locally.
WHO: Please book by contacting Ruth Oster at 8265 0221 or 0401 365 339.

Thank you from LCC @Ingle Farm
Thanks again John – and please continue to thank all concerned for their generosity.
The money donated previously and this money will be put towards playgroup. As I have reported before gov. cut funding to playgroup at the end of the last financial year.
We have been facilitating it for one year with no funding and by staff either stretching their capacity or donating their time. Because of the vulnerability of many of the clients attending the group we decided it would be more responsible to look for consistency in leadership for the group. With this in mind we plan to employ a playgroup leader. We plan to have a sausage sizzle on voting day to add to the coffers for this project.

Altar survey outcome
The results of the survey conducted in May are now on display in the hall.
The 50th Anniversary Team proposed the following motion for consideration by the Board:
“Based on the written survey and feedback the 50th Anniversary Team recommends that we proceed to obtain the cost of a blended version of options 3&5”

From the office

30 Days of Prayer in June
Our 30 Days of Prayer at Good Shepherd is well underway. During the week different people have been gathering each evening at 7:30 -8:30pm (except Sundays) for a time of prayer. Already many of you have come and it has been lovely spending time together talking to God and seeking His guidance for our church and community. If you have not yet attended please be encouraged to join in. You do not have to stay for the full hour, and can listen rather than pray aloud if you want.

Following our 30 days of prayer in June, the movie War Room will be screened at Good Shepherd on Sunday 3rd July, 4pm – 6pm. It is FREE.

The story is of a church-attending family that’s falling apart. An older woman, Miss Clara, mentors the wife and mum, encouraging her to read the Bible and pointing her to the power of Father God available through prayer in the name of Jesus.

It is an inspirational story - one that will encourage many hearts to keep trusting and turning to God in prayer.

Since the movie is rated PG, supervised children’s activities will be offered during the movie. While the decision rests with parents, we suggest this would be appropriate for children up to the age of 12. If you’d like to make use of this, please register the names and ages of your children via our Sunday Connect Cards - or email beth.einthal@paravista.org.au by Sunday June 26th. This will help us enlist sufficient carers.
Around 6pm, hot dogs will be served in the hall (gold coin donation).
We highly recommend War Room to you, your friends and families. It would also be an excellent activity for small groups.

Budget 2016
January – May 2016
Total Offerings – Budget $212,650        Actual $207,187     DEFICIT $5,464
Budget Summary
January – April 2016
Total Income – Budget $171,914            Actual $168,503    UNDER $3,411
Total Expenses – Budget $161,758        Actual $157,065    UNDER $4,693
SURPLUS OVER BUDGET OF $4,484 FOR 2016

Notes:
•    REG was again over budget in April.
•    Plate offerings were well below budget, with 5th Sunday being lowest total on any Sunday for plate offerings for over 4 years.
•    Offerings are still above that for the same period to end of May 2015.
•    Expenses were in line with budget during April and continue to be under budget primarily due to staffing expenses.

Regular Electronic Giving (REG)
www.lll.org.au/REG

REG is a way for our members to regularly support the work of our church. Details of transactions are kept totally confidential. None of your personal details are given to the congregation or treasurer. The treasurer is only advised of the total amount credited to the account for the month. 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 use account number 52752S1, BSB 704942

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

Vacancy
An opportunity 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.

Noticeboard

“But from everlasting to everlasting

the Lord’s love is with those who fear him,

and his righteousness with their children’s children”

Psalm 103:17

Friday, June 10, 2016

The mystery of unanswered prayer

As part of our worship series, ‘Prayer: Growing Deeper with God’, this Sunday we’re wrestling with the mystery of “unanswered prayer”.

Most of us do not expect God to say “Yes” to all our prayers. Yet what happens when you keep crying out to God - and seem to get no obvious answers?

Some get angry with God; others assume that God is angry with them. Some try to find a right technique to gain God’s favour; others give up praying altogether.

When Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, he knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:41-42 NIV)

Jesus presents his request to his Father, yet surrenders himself to the Father’s will. Regardless of the events that were about to unfold, Jesus leaves the ultimate outcome in his Father’s hands.

Are we aware and confident of God’s love for us in Jesus? When we pray, will we trust God for the right outcomes? Rather than giving into cynicism about prayer, this Sunday we’ll explore the different ways God answers our prayers.

Bible Readings: Isaiah 1:13-18, James 4:1-6
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Note of thanks from Vicar Dan and family
Dear Good Shepherd family, my time as Vicar will officially end this Sunday (12 June). It has been a blessed time of growth. We thank you for your warm welcome and encouraging words throughout our short time with you. We will continue worshipping at Good Shepherd on-and-off for the next few months before ordination in December (God willing). The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Your fellow servants in Christ: Dan, Jenny, Eli, Hannah, and Zara.

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids is on a break this Sunday due to the long weekend. Activity folders will be available for the children and Personal Journals available for the older children for use during this service. There will also be activity folders, personal journals and a range of kid’s bibles to use during the services.

Faith at Home
June Faith at Home booklet out now! Grab your copy from the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk or the parenting room, OR you can access it via the Good Shepherd phone app.

Playgroup
Please join us for Little Lambs Playgroup next Wednesday 9:15am in the church hall. Anyone is welcome and we would love to see you!

Something to think about…..
Below is a snippit from an article I read this week in the ‘Growing Faith’ newsletter called “5 tips for involving your kids in church services” written by Sophia Sinclair. I encourage you to stop and read for a minute…….

“I get a little teary when I think about Jesus’ loving and welcoming attitude towards children. ‘Let the children come to me’ he says—and he means it! Consider how we can similarly welcome the little people in our lives. Kids are made to wriggle and jump, be curious and fun-loving. Yes, sometimes they can be a little noisy. I’m not advocating for outright anarchy, but for an attitude of grace.

This may mean welcoming families with an encouraging smile, offering to hold a baby (and not being offended if the answer is ‘no’), making a cup of tea for a breastfeeding mama, greeting children by name and offering a high five or handshake to the littlest member of your congregation.

Jesus’ welcome was counter-cultural back then, and it’s radical now. We live in a world where some cafes try to put a ban on customers with kids, and where parents get dirty looks when boarding flights with small children in tow.

I pray the Church will be different. Let’s aim to worship together on Sunday with glad and forgiving hearts. Let’s aim to encourage our kids to love meeting with their church family each week. Let’s point people to Jesus, remembering that through him we—both old and young—are welcomed to God’s table as children.”

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.

Youth Ministry
Youth was held last Friday night and we looked at acknowledging God and how this related to our everyday lives and how it applied to our lifestyle choices. We finished the fun evening off with our theme song for the term– “God’s Not Dead”.
We will be continuing our study next Friday 7-9.30pm.
Cost is $2 to help cover the cost of supper.
Further details contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814

Metro CLW
Camp for students in years 7-12 in July school holidays.

July 11-15 Years 7-9
July 18-22 Years 10-12
Details: www.blueprintministires.org.au/metroclw
or pick up a card from the back of the church.

Joint North Eastern Lutheran Youth Event
This joint event includes years 5 and 6 as well as the 7-12.
This promises to be a fun-filled event mixing with other young people in the area.
Tickets on sale now via www.gspv250616.eventbrite.com.au
Feel free to bring a friend or two. Further details contact Margot Mertin 0401 850 814.

Fund Raising Luncheon
On Tuesday, JULY 5th at 12 noon, our Fellowship invites you to attend our annual luncheon here in Good Shepherd Hall. Invitations have gone out to other Northern Zone Fellowships, too, but we would really like congregation members to attend as well. We will cater for 80 people with wine, two courses, an excellent guest speaker and a few lucky door prizes. We also hope to have a trading table with many goodies for sale. Note the date of July not June. Men are most welcome, friends, partners, spouses. We look forward to seeing you there. Wish to book? Please contact RUTH OSTER on 8265 0221 or Email kroster@senet.com.au

From the office

30 Days of Prayer in June
Our 30 Days of Prayer at Good Shepherd is well underway. During the week different people have been gathering each evening at 7:30 -8:30pm (except Sundays) for a time of prayer. Already many of you have come and it has been lovely spending time together talking to God and seeking His guidance for our church and community. If you have not yet attended please be encouraged to join in. You do not have to stay for the full hour, and can listen rather than pray aloud if you want.

Following our 30 days of prayer in June, the movie War Room will be screened at Good Shepherd on Sunday 3rd July, 4pm – 6pm. It is FREE.

The story is of a church-attending family that’s falling apart. An older woman, Miss Clara, mentors the wife and mum, encouraging her to read the Bible and pointing her to the power of Father God available through prayer in the name of Jesus.

It is an inspirational story - one that will encourage many hearts to keep trusting and turning to God in prayer.

Since the movie is rated PG, supervised children’s activities will be offered during the movie. While the decision rests with parents, we suggest this would be appropriate for children up to the age of 12. If you’d like to make use of this, please register the names and ages of your children via our Sunday Connect Cards - or email beth.einthal@paravista.org.au by Sunday June 26th. This will help us enlist sufficient carers.

Around 6pm, hot dogs will be served in the hall (gold coin donation).
We highly recommend War Room to you, your friends and families. It would also be an excellent activity for small groups.

30 Days of Prayer - my experience.
Over the past week I had an amazing experience that I can only explain as encountering the grace of God and a resting of the Holy Spirit on my soul. I had an opportunity to go camping with my family last Thursday and Friday along the river near Wongulla. We had no phone range and I left all time pieces behind just to enjoy some rest. We set camp close to the river among the trees.

Thursday night as dinner was being prepared over the coals, a sense of warmth and peace came over me I had not experienced in a long while. I sat for a moment and contemplated what this might be or mean. I asked my wife Liz what time it was. 7.35pm was the answer. I then realised a team of people were praying. The feeling never left me till about 8.20pm (I had to check the time).

Friday night dinner finished and again the same experience. Time 7.40pm. I had to sit quietly and let my soul join the prayer team till 8.30pm. I cannot explain what I felt or put any other meaning to this except God letting me know I am part of his people and he cares deeply for me. Thanks to the team for prayer.
Stephen Zanker

Vacancy
An opportunity 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.

Support for Lutheran Community Care
The BBQ last Sunday raised $348. $125 of this money will be used to convert the BBQ being donated to LCC so it can be used using bottle gas. The remaining amount will be given to LCC to support their programmes.

Matthew Hofmanis has accepted the challenge to clean out the shed and give it some order so it can become a functional storage area. Thank you for your support

Pre call meeting
Over 70 members attended the pre-call meeting last Sunday. This was conducted by Pastor Brian Schwarz. The meeting identified:
•    The ways we are or could achieve our mission
•    The special gifts of Rolly so our new Lead Pastor gifts will compliment Rolly’s gifts
•    The special gifts needed by the new Lead Pastor to lead us in achieving our mission’

The Call Team was introduced – John Dolling, Keren Sutton, Aaron Einthal, Ian Pfeiffer, Deb Wesselingh, Ben McAleer, Keith Kemp and David Wilksch. They will met with the Bishop on Wednesday June 22nd to begin the process of identifying suitable candidates to be called as our Lead Pastor.

If you have any suggestions on a suitable person to be considered by the Call Team please speak to one of the Call Team.

Noticeboard

Sweet Aussie Grown Dried Apricots
Packs of 500g dried apricots at $12 each are available from the church office. Harvested and packed by Riverland Community Volunteers. Proceeds support Compassionate Ministries in Tonga through Nazcare Aust inc.

Biggest Morning Tea
Come and join us for a cuppa and raise money for the Cancer Council.
The Biggest Morning Tea will be held Thursday 16th June 9.30am in the church hall.
Toddlers and babies are welcome. Gold coin donation appreciated!

For further info contact Tina Pfeiffer 8263 8545 or Lenna Uebergang

“My flesh and my heart may fail,

but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Psalm 73:26

Friday, June 3, 2016

Ways to Pray

The book of Psalms is often called the prayerbook of the Bible. Psalms 1 and 2 belong together as an introduction, so the first prayer is actually Psalm 3. It begins:

LORD, how my foes increase!
There are many who attack me. (Psalm 3:1 HCSB)

Hang on a minute! That doesn’t sound like the ‘right’ way to start a prayer!
Join us this Sunday as we explore ‘Ways to Pray.’ Jesus and Saint Paul have some surprising answers as we look at the language of prayer, the posture of prayer, and the mindset of prayer.

Bible Readings: Matthew 27:45–50; Romans 8:26–27, 31–34
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Re: Vacuum cleaner thank you
Many thanks for the four offers from church members regarding the vacuum cleaner request, it was greatly appreciated. It is wonderful to see people respond for a request so generously.
Thanks again
Steve

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids is on again this Sunday at our 10.30am service. We would love for you to join us!
Activity folders will be available for the children and Personal Journals available for the older children for use during this service.

There will also be activity folders, personal journals and a range of kid’s bibles to use during the services.

Faith at Home
June Faith at Home booklet out now! Grab your copy from the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk or the parenting room, OR you can access it via the Good Shepherd phone app.

Playgroup
Please join us for Little Lambs Playgroup next Wednesday 9:15am in the church hall. Anyone is welcome and we would love to see you!

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.

Youth Ministry
Youth is on this Friday night 7pm-9.30pm. We will be looking at acknowledging God and how that might look for us in today’s world. Our theme for the term is “God’s Not Dead”, based on the hit movie of the same name. Doesn’t matter if you have not seen the movie or been to our previous events, come along anyway, it’s a great time to learn and explore with your peers. Come along for fellowship, food and fun. The cost is $2 to help cover the cost of supper.
Further details contact Margot Mertin 0401 850 814

Metro CLW
Camp for students in years 7-12 in July school holidays.
July 11-15 Years 7-9
July 18-22 Years 10-12
Details: www.blueprintministires.org.au/metroclw or pick up a card from the back of the church.

Blueprint Ministries Appeal Dinner
Saturday 25th June 2016 at the Marche Club in Paradise
Fundraising to support the ministry to children & families, youth & young adults in our district
Guest Speaker is Matt Cowdrey, our greatest ever Olympian
Tickets and more info available from www.blueprintappeal.org

Joint North Eastern Lutheran Youth Event
This joint event includes years 5 and 6 as well as the 7-12. This promises to be a fun-filled event mixing with other young people in the area. Tickets on sale now via www.gspv250616.eventbrite.com.au
Feel free to bring a friend or two. Further details contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814.

PVLW Fellowship
On Tuesday, June 7th at 1pm we have our regular meeting and DOROTHY BUSCUMB, a member of our executive committee, will be sharing her story. She is a member of Good Shepherd and this may be an excellent opportunity for congregation members to get to know her. So you are all most welcome to join us as we hear Dorothy give us her personal profile. Pastor Noel starts with a short Bible Study at 1pm.

Fund Raising Luncheon
On Tuesday, JULY 5th at 12 noon, our Fellowship invites you to attend our annual luncheon here in Good Shepherd Hall. Invitations have gone out to other Northern Zone Fellowships, too, but we would really like congregation members to attend as well. We will cater for 80 people with wine, two courses, an excellent guest speaker and a few lucky door prizes. We also hope to have a trading table with many goodies for sale. Note the date of July not June. Men are most welcome, friends, partners, spouses. We look forward to seeing you there. Wish to book? Please contact RUTH OSTER on 8265 0221 or Email kroster@senet.com.au

From the office

Pre Call meeting
A reminder that the pre-call meeting will be held this Sunday June 5th at 12:30 pm
This is open to all who call Good Shepherd their church home. Following on from the pre-call survey, this is the next step in calling our new Lead Pastor. This meeting will identify the most important gifts our new pastor will need to continue to lead us in achieving our mission. I have met with Pastor Brian Schwarz who will be leading the meeting. He has indicated the meeting should be no longer than 1 hour.

This, together with the call meeting later in the year is the most important meetings for our congregation this year. I encourage you to attend this meeting and be part of this important decision.

There will be a BBQ lunch after the 10:30 service. Proceeds to LCC at Ingle Farm.

Report on AGM
•    The 2015 Audit Financial Statement as tabled was accepted.
•    Changed from Senior Pastor to Lead Pastor was adopted. The meeting also authorised changing Constitution/By Laws to reflect change of name from LCA President to LCA Bishop
•    The Facilities Team was given authority to proceed with upgrading the cooling in the church and hall to be completed before the 50th Anniversary celebrations.
•    The Call Team as nominated by the Board was adopted

Crucifix from the Alter
The crucifix has been removed from the alter in the sanctuary due to its poor condition. A considerable amount of the body fill has deteriorated from the wire frame. The worship team have decided to wait for a decision on the replacement sanctuary furniture before replacing the crucifix. If you have any issues concerning the removal, please talk to the Admin Manager (Stephen) or one of the ministers.

Improvements around the church
During the past heavy rains a leak in the roof above the main entry was discovered. This has now been repaired. There is a small amount of water damage to the interior of the building and this will be repaired in the near future. Another leak was detected exterior to the hall. Water source is still being investigated.

Vacancy
An opportunity 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.

Noticeboard

Sweet Aussie Grown Dried Apricots
Packs of 500g dried apricots at $12 each are available from the church office. Harvested and packed by Riverland Community Volunteers. Proceeds support Compassionate Ministries in Tonga through Nazcare Aust inc.

Biggest Morning Tea
Come and join us for a cuppa and raise money for the Cancer Council.
The Biggest Morning Tea will be held Thursday 16th June 9.30am in the church hall.
Toddlers and babies are welcome. Gold coin donation appreciated!

For further info contact Tina Pfeiffer 8263 8545 or Lenna Uebergang

“And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior”

Luke 1:46-47

Friday, May 27, 2016

Cultivating Prayer

This Sunday at Good Shepherd we continue our new worship series, ‘Prayer: Growing Deeper with God’. Last Sunday Pr Noel built a great foundation with his message on knowing God as our Father in heaven. If you missed it, I urge you to catch up: http://paravista.org.au/resources/weekly-message/

The heartbeat of a God-centred life and a healthy ministry is the heartbeat of prayer. We see Jesus living it out. Jesus keeps making it clear that our Father in heaven loves us, watches over us, and wants the best for us.

Yet when it comes to prayer, I confess that I am sporadic, undisciplined, and easily distracted. I often turn to God as a last desperate resort rather than as first first priority.

How is it with you?

How would you describe your prayer life over the last three months?

For you personally, what tends to crowd out prayer in your life?

What 1-2 things would be most helpful for you to grow into a person of prayer?

The focus for this Sunday is Cultivating Prayer. My prayer is that our heavenly Father would draw you to his heart, convince you of his love, and release in you a hunger for deeper intimacy with Him.

Bible Readings: Luke 11:5–13; 1 Thessalonians 5:16–17
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids is on again this Sunday at our 10.30am service. We would love for you to join us!
Activity folders will be available for the children and Personal Journals available for the older children for use during this service.

There will also be activity folders, personal journals and a range of kid’s bibles to use during the services.

Faith at Home
May Faith at Home booklet out now! Grab your copy from the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk or the parenting room, OR you can access it via the Good Shepherd phone app.

New resources OUT NOW in the church library!! Pop in and borrow something!

Playgroup
Please join us for Little Lambs Playgroup next Wednesday 9:15am in the church hall. Anyone is welcome and we would love to see you!

Youth Ministry
Youth is on this Friday night 7pm-9.30pm. We will be looking at making a stance and standing up for God and what we believe in. Our theme for the term is “God’s Not Dead”, based on the hit movie of the same name. Come along for fellowship, food and fun. The cost is $2 to help cover the cost of supper.
Further details contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814

Metro CLW
Camp for students in years 7-12 in July school holidays
July 11-15 Years 7-9
July 18-22 Years 10-12
Details: www.blueprintministires.org.au/metroclw

Blueprint Ministries Appeal Dinner
Saturday 25th June 2016 at the Marche Club in Paradise
Fundraising to support the ministry to children & families, youth & young adults in our district
Guest Speaker is Matt Cowdrey, our greatest ever Olympian
Tickets and more info available from www.blueprintappeal.org

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.

PVLW Fellowship
On Tuesday, June 7th at 1pm we have our regular meeting and DOROTHY BUSCUMB, a member of our executive committee, will be sharing her story. She is a member of Good Shepherd and this may be an excellent opportunity for congregation members to get to know her. So you are all most welcome to join us as we hear Dorothy give us her personal profile. Pastor Noel starts with a short Bible Study at 1pm.

Fund Raising Luncheon
On Tuesday, JULY 5th at 12 noon, our Fellowship invites you to attend our annual luncheon here in Good Shepherd Hall. Invitations have gone out to other Northern Zone Fellowships, too, but we would really like congregation members to attend as well. We will cater for 80 people with wine, two courses, an excellent guest speaker and a few lucky door prizes. We also hope to have a trading table with many goodies for sale. Note the date of July not June. Men are most welcome, friends, partners, spouses. We look forward to seeing you there. Wish to book? Please contact RUTH OSTER on 8265 0221 or Email kroster@senet.com.au

Maranatha Health - Stall and Soup Sunday
Soup weather is here, and Maranatha Health is always ready to serve!
Join us in the hall on 29 May after services for a warming mug of soup and cheese toastie lunch. Browse at our stall of homemade and home grown goods, with items donated by our generous Good Shepherd community. Any donated items are welcome before services on the day. All proceeds of sales go towards the work of Maranatha Health www.maranathahealth.org
Thank you for your continued support in prayer, giving and serving! We look forward to catching up with you over a cup of steamy soup soon.

From the office

Improvements around the church
Manse fence - the fence between the manse and the neighbour at 48 collapsed due to age. It has been replaced with a good neighbour fence.

Office closure on 2nd June for Staff meeting
Office will be closed for a short period on 2nd June 2015 from 9.00am to 9.30am for a staff meeting.

Name Badges
Do not have a name badge? Badges can be ordered through the front office or by indicating name badge on your connect card. Please ensure you have your name written legibly to receive a correct badge.

Support for LCC at Ingle Farm
9 members from Para Vista have attending information sessions at LCC Ingle Farm. Once they have completed the necessary paper work many of these folk will commence volunteering in various roles. Others have indicated that they will be interested in getting involved.

Already several members are helping with the afternoon tea for students and a BBQ at the Saturday morning dad’s play group. The afternoon teas are important as this is the only food some receive for the day.

We have assisted by donating a freezer to replace the broken one and also Eric Hofmanis has been able to access a BBQ that has been donated. The congregation has also given over $1750 in cash to assist with running the programmes.

Jan and John Dolling give the thumbs up for the freezer donated by the congregation.

Congregational survey
Thank you to everyone who completed the pre-call meeting survey. The results have been correlated thanks to many hours work by Yolande Elliott and Liz Zanker. The results have been forwarded to Brain Schwarz who will conduct the pre-call meeting on June 5th at 12:30pm.

Altar survey
Thank you to all who completed the survey re the possibility of upgrading the furniture at the front of the church. Thank you also for the oral feedback. We had 120 written replies. The results of the survey will be discussed by the 50th Anniversary Team and the Board. The congregation will then be informed of the outcome.

Reminder of meetings
Sunday May 29th AGM’s of congregation and school at 12:30
Soup lunch will be provided by Maranatha Health.
Sunday June 5th Pre- call meeting at 12:30
Lunch will be available before the meeting.

Noticeboard

Biggest Morning Tea
Come and join us for a cuppa and raise money for the Cancer Council.
The Biggest Morning Tea will be held Thursday 16th June 9.30am in the church hall.
Toddlers and babies are welcome. Gold coin donation appreciated!

For further info contact Tina Pfeiffer 8263 8545 or Lenna Uebergang

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

“A friend loves at all times,

and a brother is born for adversity.”

Proverbs 17:17

Friday, May 20, 2016

Why Pray?

This Sunday at Good Shepherd we start a new sermon series called ‘Prayer: Growing Deeper with God’.

While prayer can be an instinctive response for believers and non-believers alike, when we are faced with overwhelming circumstances, the regular practice of prayer doesn’t come as easy. Prayer can be a struggle for all of us. In this series we will take a closer look at what the Bible says about prayer and how this can help us grow in our own prayer life.

We begin the series by exploring the question, “Why Pray?” Is prayer simply a means to access the almighty God in an attempt to get him to help us out? Or, is there more to prayer than just asking God for things?

If you struggle to pray; if you are confused about how to pray; or, have a desire to grow in your prayer life, then this new series will help address these struggles and grow your prayer life and with it your relationship with our amazing God, who we address in prayer as “Our Father in heaven!”

Bible Readings: Luke 11:1-4; Romans 8:14-17
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

The AGM’s of church and school
The AGM’S of the congregation and school will be held on Sunday May 29th @ 12:30. Information will be available by Sunday May 22nd. There will be a meal available after the 10:30 service

“Stand Firm” Bible study
What is spiritual attack? Are there evil powers working against me? How do I stand firm against such “powers”?

Vicar Dan will be leading a Bible study over two nights (Wednesday night, 18th & 25th May, 7:30pm–8:30pm) in the church. The study will look at the role of prayer in standing firm against evil “powers.”

Prayer is a gift from God (Luke 11:1–13). One of the purposes of prayer is to strengthen God’s people to stand firm against attack from the evil powers that lead humanity to disobey God. These evil powers include the world, the devil, and the sinful nature (Ephesians 2:2–3). This struggle is real and encompasses all Christians in the present age.

Join us as we unpack the theme of “power” in the book of Ephesians, and how prayer is God’s gift for standing firm when attacked by evil powers.

Kingdom Kids
Kingdom Kids is on again this Sunday at our 10.30am service. We would love for you to join us!
Activity folders will be available for the children and Personal Journals available for the older children for use during this service.

There will also be activity folders, personal journals and a range of kids bibles to use during the services.

Faith at Home
May Faith at Home booklet out now! Grab your copy from the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk or the parenting room, OR you can access it via the Good Shepherd phone app.

New resources OUT NOW in the church library!! Pop in and borrow something!

Playgroup
Please join us for Little Lambs Playgroup next Wednesday 9:15am in the church hall. Anyone is welcome and we would love to see you!

Youth Ministry
Youth is on this Friday night 7pm-9.30pm. We will be looking at making a stance and standing up for God and what we believe in. Our theme for the term is “God’s Not Dead”, based on the hit movie of the same name. Come along for fellowship, food and fun. The cost is $2 to help cover the cost of supper.
Further details contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814

Metro CLW
Camp for students in years 7-12 in July school holidays
July 11-15    Years   7-9
July 18-22   Years 10-12
Details: www.blueprintministires.org.au/metroclw

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.

PVLW Fellowship
On Tuesday, June 7th at 1pm we have our regular meeting and DOROTHY BUSCUMB, a member of our executive committee, will be sharing her story. She is a member of Good Shepherd and this may be an excellent opportunity for congregation members to get to know her. So you are all most welcome to join us as we hear Dorothy give us her personal profile. Pastor Noel starts with a short Bible Study at 1pm.

Fund Raising Luncheon
On Tuesday, JULY 5th at 12 noon, our Fellowship invites you to attend our annual luncheon here in Good Shepherd Hall. Invitations have gone out to other Northern Zone Fellowships, too, but we would really like congregation members to attend as well. We will cater for 80 people with wine, two courses, an excellent guest speaker and a few lucky door prizes. We also hope to have a trading table with many goodies for sale. Note the date of July not June. Men are most welcome, friends, partners, spouses. We look forward to seeing you there. Wish to book? Please contact RUTH OSTER on 8265 0221 or Email kroster@senet.com.au

May is MaranathaMONTH
This May is MaranathaMONTH and we invite you to run a fundraiser in honour of mothers in Uganda (and everywhere!) We're making May a month of sharing stories of mums, children and families whose lives are impacted by the work of Maranatha Health, and who positively impact those around them.

Host an event and share stories from our work in Uganda. Download an event kit to make the planning simple or create your own MaranathaMONTH event. Let us know what you are planning to do because we love to share your story too! For more information: www.maranathahealth.org/month or contact keren.sutton@maranathahealth.org

Maranatha Health - Stall and Soup Sunday
Soup weather is here, and Maranatha Health is always ready to serve!
Join us in the hall on 29 May after services for a warming mug of soup and cheese toastie lunch. Browse at our stall of homemade and home grown goods, with items donated by our generous Good Shepherd community. Any donated items are welcome before services on the day. All proceeds of sales go towards the work of Maranatha Health. www.maranathahealth.org
Thank you for your continued support in prayer, giving and serving! We look forward to catching up with you over a cup of steamy soup soon.

Blueprint Ministries Appeal Dinner
June 25, 2016 18:30
Blueprint Ministries Appeal Dinner will be an evening of the choicest company, engaging entertainment & fabulous food. Most importantly, celebrate with us what God has been doing through our ministries, and invest in the future of our children & families, youth & young adults.
**TICKETS AVALIABLE VERY SOON**
Evening Highlights:
•    Matt Cowdrey sharing his story and how his strength and courage helped him reach incredible heights in the world of swimming.
•    Live Music
•    Silent Auction (we will keep you posted with items!)
•    Stories from those involved in the ministry of Blueprint Ministries
•    Wine Wall
•    Cost:     $85/head
$765/table of 10
Bring a table of friends and get the 10th ticket free!
Contact us with any questions dinner@blueprintministries.org.au 8267 5211

From the office

Important dates
Sunday May 22nd – pre-call meeting survey to be completed
Sunday May 29th AGM’S of congregation and school @12:30
Sunday June 5th – pre-call congregational meeting @12.30 in the church

Call Team
After lengthy deliberation the Board has nominated the following to form the Call Team to meet with the Bishop on Wednesday June 22nd. In forming the Team the Board endeavoured to ensure all aspects of our large and diverse congregation was represented.

The Team is: John Dolling, Keith Kemp, Keren Sutton, Ian Pfeiffer, Deb Wesselingh, David Wilksch, Ben McAleer and Aaron Einthal

If you have suggestions on pastors who should be considered please give their name to one of the Team.

Altar furniture
This Sunday the options for upgrading the altar will be on display in the hall. A representative from the 50th Anniversary Team will be available to answer questions and you can lodge a vote (as long as you did not vote last week)

Notes from May Board meeting
•    The Call Team was discussed and selected
•    Motions for the AGM were finalised
•    24 x 7 one way traffic flow through the complex was discussed. It was decided to support on way from Monday thru Friday but not on weekends
•    Board Chair for 2017 was discussed without resolution

Noticeboard

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

Jesus did not let him

[the man from whom he had cast out demons]

come with him, but said,

"Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you,

and how he has had mercy on you."

Msrk 5:19

Friday, May 13, 2016

Pentecost Sunday - But wait, there’s more…

How do you cope when things don’t turn out the way you expected? Like when cherished dreams and plans turn into something much different?

This Sunday we’re going to trace the first disciples’ expectations of how things would work out with Jesus; and compare that with Jesus’ restoration plan.

Through his death Jesus had taken the punishment for the sin of the world. Through his resurrection Jesus had won the victory over death for ALL people. Now it was time to share this Good News throughout the world.

Jesus commissions his disciples to be his witnesses – to the ends of the earth. For parochial Jewish chaps, this would have been the last thing on their minds.

In effect Jesus tells them: “But wait, there’s more for you to do in my restoration plans for my world. But wait, there’s more my Father wants to give you so you can do it: the presence and power of the Holy Spirit!

Pentecost was a harvest thanksgiving festival, drawing people of Jewish faith from around the world to Jerusalem. It was the perfect time and place for God’s great opening act: sharing the Good News of Jesus with ALL people.

Bible Readings: Acts 1:1-8    Acts 2:1-41
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

To celebrate Pentecost and the passion of the Holy Spirit, you might like to wear red, orange, or yellow to worship this Sunday.

How to become a member at Good Shepherd
If you are interested in becoming a member of Good Shepherd we invite you to attend our next Discovery course. This is held over two evenings, Tuesday 17th and Tuesday 24th May. The first evening begins with a meal at 6.30pm in the church hall and finishes at 9pm. The second evening is from 7pm – 9pm in the Education Centre at the rear of the hall.

You can register for Discover in the following ways: by phoning the office on 8263 5087, emailing churchenquiries@parvista.org.au or, by writing ‘I would like to register for Discovery’ on your Connect Card at a Sunday service.

The AGM’s of church and school
The AGM’S of the congregation and school will be held on Sunday May 29th @ 12:30. Information will be available by Sunday May 22nd. There will be a meal available after the 10:30 service

“Stand Firm” Bible study
What is spiritual attack? Are there evil powers working against me? How do I stand firm against such “powers”?

Vicar Dan will be leading a Bible study over two nights (Wednesday night, 18th & 25th May, 7:30pm–8:30pm) in the church. The study will look at the role of prayer in standing firm against evil “powers.”

Prayer is a gift from God (Luke 11:1–13). One of the purposes of prayer is to strengthen God’s people to stand firm against attack from the evil powers that lead humanity to disobey God. These evil powers include the world, the devil, and the sinful nature (Ephesians 2:2–3). This struggle is real and encompasses all Christians in the present age.

Join us as we unpack the theme of “power” in the book of Ephesians, and how prayer is God’s gift for standing firm when attacked by evil powers.

Calling a Senior Pastor
We have commenced the process of calling a Senior Pastor.
•    The first step for those who call Good Shepherd their church home is to fill in a questionnaire. This can be done online or in hard copy. We encourage you to do it on line as this saves a lot of collation of data.
We encourage everyone to complete the survey as this information will form the basis of the pre-call meeting and will determine the gifts we are seeking in our new Senior Pastor
•    There will be a pre-call meeting on Sunday June 5th at 12:30. This will be led by Pastor Brain Schwarz representing the LCA. Information from this meeting will be passed onto Bishop David Altus so he can assess the gifts required by the new Senior Pastor.
•    A Call Team has been chosen by the Board from those who expressed an interest. The names of the Team will be included in the next weekly news
•    On Wednesday June 22nd   the Call Team meets with the Bishop to discuss Pastors who are available for call and have the gifts required to lead us in our Mission
If you have Pastors you think should be considered contact John Dolling 8367 5296 jdolling@bigpond.net.au

Kingdom Kids
Please join us this Sunday at 10:30am for a Pentecost service to remember! Kids and families will have a special activity and part in the service. We hope you can join us and we look forward to seeing you then!

There will also be activity folders, personal journals and a range of kids bibles to use during the services.

Faith at Home
May Faith at Home booklet out now! Grab your copy from the Kingdom Kids sign-in desk or the parenting room, OR you can access it via the Good Shepherd phone app.

New resources OUT NOW in the church library!! Pop in and borrow something!

Playgroup
Please join us for Little Lambs Playgroup next Wednesday 9:15am in the church hall. Anyone is welcome and we would love to see you!

Youth Ministry
Term 2 for youth commenced last Friday with a movie night screening God’s Not Dead. This term we are undertaking a Bible study based on the movie God’s Not Dead. If you were unable to come and see the movie you will still be able to participate in the fortnightly studies as the relevant part of the movie to be studied will be viewed at each youth event. Youth events run Friday fortnightly. The cost is $2 to help cover the cost of supper.

Metro CLW
Camp for students in years 7-12 in July school holidays. Early bird registration closes today. (Friday May 13th)

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.

PVLW Fellowship
On Tuesday, June 7th at 1pm we have our regular meeting and DOROTHY BUSCUMB, a member of our executive committee, will be sharing her story. She is a member of Good Shepherd and this may be an excellent opportunity for congregation members to get to know her. So you are all most welcome to join us as we hear Dorothy give us her personal profile. Pastor Noel starts with a short Bible Study at 1pm.

Fund Raising Luncheon
On Tuesday, JULY 5th at 12 noon, our Fellowship invites you to attend our annual luncheon here in Good Shepherd Hall. Invitations have gone out to other Northern Zone Fellowships, too, but we would really like congregation members to attend as well. We will cater for 80 people with wine, two courses, an excellent guest speaker and a few lucky door prizes. We also hope to have a trading table with many goodies for sale. Note the date of July not June. Men are most welcome, friends, partners, spouses. We look forward to seeing you there. Wish to book? Please contact RUTH OSTER on 8265 0221 or Email kroster@senet.com.au

May is MaranathaMONTH
This May is MaranathaMONTH and we invite you to run a fundraiser in honour of mothers in Uganda (and everywhere!) We're making May a month of sharing stories of mums, children and families whose lives are impacted by the work of Maranatha Health, and who positively impact those around them.

Host an event and share stories from our work in Uganda. Download an event kit to make the planning simple or create your own MaranathaMONTH event. Let us know what you are planning to do because we love to share your story too! For more information: www.maranathahealth.org/month or contact keren.sutton@maranathahealth.org

Maranatha Health - Stall and Soup Sunday
Soup weather is here, and Maranatha Health is always ready to serve!
Join us in the hall on 29 May after services for a warming mug of soup and cheese toastie lunch. Browse at our stall of homemade and homegrown goods, with items donated by our generous Good Shepherd community. Any donated items are welcome before services on the day. All proceeds of sales go towards the work of Maranatha Health. www.maranathahealth.org
Thank you for your continued support in prayer, giving and serving! We look forward to catching up with you over a cup of steamy soup soon.

From the office

Budget 2016
January – April 2016
Total Offerings – Budget $169,250    Actual $165,241 UNDER $4,009
Budget Summary
January – March 2016
Total Income – Budget $130,348        Actual $128,340    UNDER $2,008
Total Expenses – Budget $111,741    Actual $108,934    UNDER $2,807

Notes:
•    REG continues to be over budget in 2016 with the highest amount for the year in April and $1,500 per month more than 2015.
•    April was the first month plate offerings each Sunday were below $4,000 for over 10 years.
•    Although offerings are $4,009 below budget to end of April the total amount is $2,400 more than end of April 2015.
•    Expenses are below budget to date due to staffing positions not being filled. All positions have now been filled.
•    Expenses are below budget by more than income is below budget to date.

Heating our facility
To assist all users of our facility in keeping warm the following actions will help to heat the areas in an economical way. When heaters are turned on, ensure the ceiling fans are turned on to a low speed. For the auditorium the switches are located in the rear corridor and speed setting 5 or 4 will suffice. In the hall and the rear right of the auditorium the fans are in the dark boxes on the ceiling. The switches for these are located along the northern brick wall in line with the fans. Select speed setting medium.

Vacancy Painting volunteers
To ensure our complex is kept in a presentable state some areas require a fresh coat of paint. There are a number of areas requiring refreshing especially for the 50th anniversary. Please contact Stephen, the office on 8263 5087 or mark painting on your connect card to be actively involved in improving the presentation of our facility. All materials and paint will be supplied.
Noticeboard

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

Boomerang BACK to Hermannsburg and Neuendettelsau in Germany. At the Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting on Monday May 23rd, Pastor Rob Borgas of Finke River Mission in Central Australia will tell us about the 2015 concert tour to Germany & why it was so important for the Aboriginal people of Central Australia. Bethlehem House, Flinders St. city, 7.30 pm, supper & gold coin donation.

Lutheran Nurses
Monday the 23rd of May at 7.30pm in the SA District Office at 137 Archer St, North Adelaide Guest speaker is Dr. Chris Hahn on “GENETIC ENGINEERING [the Genome of Cancer]".
All are welcome not just nurses. CPD evidence is available if needed.

“And my God will meet all your needs

according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 4:19