Delivered from Darkness

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned…

Isaiah 9:2

There are many times that I enjoy a stroll at night.  There is something spectacular about non-visual senses taking over to hear the cicadas, the smell of the heavy air ripe with evening mist and to feel the cool breeze after a warm summer’s day.  But that feeling of enjoyment would erode after time if the sun never appeared.  What would you feel if the long night never ended and the sun always seemed perched on the other side of the planet, somewhere far, far away…

This is the sense that I get from the prophet Isaiah as he sheds light (and darkness) on the path of the Israelite.  Since the Fall, humankind has been in constant need of redemption, and to be honest, a continual sense of God’s nearness and connection.  In the Wilderness, the Israelites were led by fire and cloud, and yet they still doubted God’s power and abundance even so much as to proclaim allegiance to a golden idol that they made.  And when they turned their eyes away from the true source of light in the world, bit by bit, the world became darker until finally, they walked only in spiritual darkness exploring even the depths of their depravity by consulting ‘mediums and spiritists who whisper and mutter…’ (Isaiah 8:19)

How are God’s people delivered from darkness, and how do they see the dawning light?

So it is in the 21st century.  Join with us this week to plow through the darkness and hear God’s message to His people living now, who might be living in darkness, that the light is continuing to dawn and arise in the life and soul of His people.

Pastor Reid Matthais

Bible Reading:  Isaiah 9:1-7, John 9:1-5 NIV
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

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

Family Hub
What a fantastic response last week in our support for the Family Hub.

The total raised was a fantastic $1,906
• BBQ $393
• Plant sale $118
• Donations at services $1,115
• Donation from Fellowship group $280

TOTAL $1,906

When the money was delivered to Kathlene on Tuesday they were not having such a good day, but this certainly brightened it!  She assured us that the money would go to good use.

Graduation Blessing
There will be a blessing at the end of the 10.30am service on Sunday 9th December, for all who are graduating from a course/stage/study/University/High School/Primary School. At the end of the service when we call the graduates forward, please come forward and receive your blessing as you move into the next phase of your life!

Experience Christmas Volunteers Needed! 
We are looking for people to be involved – please chat to Chelsea Schiller 0447 225 517 chelsea.schiller@paravista.org.au if you’d like to be involved in any way.

Good Shepherd Social Club
Our 2019 year commences on Thursday 31st January, 1.-3.30pm in the Church Hall.
We welcome anyone that would be interested in coming to a free one-off introduction on any Thursday afternoon.
Activities include meeting other members, playing different card games or carpet bowls and enjoying coffee and a chat.
If you wish to join after your free one off visit then the weekly fee is $3.00 per person.
Please contact Tom Curnow - President on 72254593 or 0400 258 410 or Mike Hancock -Vice President on 0403375474 for any enquiries.

Notice Board

Peter Steicke’s new book ‘Favoured’ is now available in paperback on pre-order now.  Books are $20 each and will be available from this Sunday onward in between services and after the 10.30 service from Debbie Wesselingh.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

The End of Evangelism and Beginning of Visible Kingdom

You see, we know who is with us.  The confidence in God’s promise that we have through faith and His grace, radiating the peace, the joy and eagerness to meet our Lord amid persecution.

Excerpt from Belay Zelleke’s sermon

Throughout life, there are many moments of crisis, whether personal, communal or global, which make us raise our eyes to the heavens and ask two questions:

Why, Lord?

And

Is this the end?

It’s a natural response to question the omnipotent God.  Our human failings want to know why this pain and suffering has come upon us and ultimately, will this pain and suffering be a sign of the end of all things.  In our scripture reading this week, we recognise Jesus’ lordship over all things including pain, suffering, death and Satan.  Christ the King is supreme regent over all that might occur from this day until his eventual return.  But in the meantime, how do we deal with what is promised?  Natural disasters?  Disease?  Sudden, catastrophic death?  How do we speak about the end times with regards to ultimate victory.  Explore with Belay this week as he takes on one of the toughest questions of all time.

Pastor Reid Matthais

Bible Reading:  1 Pet 3:15-18, Luke 21:5-19  NIV
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Prayer Request
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.

Holy Baptism
At the 10.30am service this Sunday, twins – Aimee and Olivia Taylor, daughters of Brianna Gilroy and David Taylor will be welcomed into God’s family through Holy Baptism.

Ladies Fellowship
Christmas lunch 4th December at the Blue Gums Hotel $20.90 per head – payment to
Dawn Spencer.

It’s that time of the year again to cook honey biscuits for Lutheran Community Care.  These are distributed to those less fortunate such as the residents at Glenside and the RAH.  No nuts or hundreds and thousands!  Iced with long sprinkles or plain OK.  Please leave in the church kitchen in a container labelled “Ladies Fellowship” by Sunday 25th November.

Support for the Family Hub Christmas Activities
As we busily begin to prepare for Christmas, the Family Hub at Ingle Farm are busily planning to bring a little Christmas cheer into the lives of the children of the 250 families they support. They are planning to have a family BBQ and give each child a small gift.  To standardise gifts they have requested financial support rather than actual gifts.

You will be able to financially support the Family Hub this Sunday November 25th in various ways:

• placing a donation in an envelope in the box on the platform at the front of the church (where food donations are stored).
• purchasing lunch after service and before the Half Yearly meeting -sausages $2, steak sandwich $4, family package 10 sausages for $15.  There is only a small window of opportunity between the end of the second service and the Half Yearly meeting.  Just enough time to grab a bite to eat and support a worthy cause.  Sausages will also be available after the first service.
• purchase plants from the plant sale in the hall.
• if you will not be at church on Sunday you can donate by depositing your donation into the following LLL church account   BSB 704942 Ac No 129523 (marked clearly Family Hub) or drop a donation into the church office by Monday November 26th.

Thank you for all your support during 2018.

Good Shepherd Social Club
Our 2019 year commences on Thursday 31st January, 1.-3.30pm in the Church Hall.

We welcome anyone that would be interested in coming to a free one-off introduction on any Thursday afternoon.

Activities include meeting other members, playing different card games or carpet bowls and enjoying coffee and a chat.

If you wish to join after your free one off visit then the weekly fee is $3.00 per person.

Please contact Tom Curnow - President on 72254593 or 0400 258 410 or Mike Hancock -Vice President on 0403375474 for any enquiries.

Experience Christmas Volunteers Needed! 
We are looking for people to be involved – please chat to Chelsea Schiller 0447 225 517 chelsea.schiller@paravista.org.au if you’d like to be involved in any way.

From the Office

Half Yearly Meeting
All congregation members are invited to attend an exciting recap of the last six months and gaze into the future.  Begins after the second service on Sunday 25th November 2018 at 12pm.

Minute Secretary
Are you a good listener, able to summarise what you hear?  At the Half Yearly Meeting on November 25th we are seeking to elect a new Minute Secretary for our church.  The role is not time consuming, and involves attending our church's general meetings twice a year to take minutes, and providing the draft minutes to the Chair for review.  Handover and support is available.  Please contact Keren Sutton or the church office at churchenquiries@paravista.org.au to nominate.

Time Out/Devotion Books
If anyone would like to order a 2019 Time Out Devotion book please let the office know via email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au or phone 8263 5087

Yearbook 2018
If anyone would like to order a 2019 Year Book please let the office know via email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au or phone 8263 5087.

Notice Board

Trinity Place – Serviced Apartments Available!
Trinity Place is a part of the Aged Care Ministry of Trinity Lutheran Church at Pasadena.

We provide 32 serviced apartments as a part of our Retirement Village, and some apartments have recently been vacated. 

If you are retired, independent, looking to downsize and would like some basic assistance (such as a midday meal, laundry, cleaning), please contact Matt Johns on 8277 2446 or visit our website www.trinityplace.com.au

Peter Steicke’s new book ‘Favoured’ is now available in paperback on pre-order now.  Books are $20 each and will be available from this Sunday onward in between services and after the 10.30 service from Debbie Wesselingh.

Live Christmas Trees
Holy Cross Birdwood is once again offering live Christmas trees for $40.  If you wish to order one contact John Dollling 8367 5296 or jdolling@bigpond.net.au by Sunday 25th November.  Proceeds are used to support chaplains in schools.

“Hymns We Love”
Come for a time of informal community singing of hymns you love.  To be held at
Zion Lutheran Church, 15-17 Glynburn Road, Glynde on the first Monday of the month starting November 5th, then December 3rd and January 7th.  Come at 10-30 for cuppa and biscuits.  No cost – just come!

If you need more information, please contact Joy Mildren, organist, 0458 650 135/8367 9969.

The Franklin Graham tour is coming in the first part of 2019.  We encourage anyone who wants to be part of the tour to pick up a flier in the café of Good Shepherd and share them with whomever they come into contact.

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

James 1:12

Prayer and Evangelism

From Jeremiah 29:11 – ‘I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you.  Plans to give you a hope and a future.  How amazing it is that God in his love prepares his people for prosperity and a future hope.

But verses 12-14a is just important to the Israelites who have been in captivity.  ‘Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.  You will see me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.  I will be found by you.’

In the midst of captivity, God says that we will ‘call,’ ‘come to him’ and ‘pray,’ and in the midst of that we will remember and find the Creator.

There are many times when I wonder why we pray, and even more so, how do we pray effectively.  This week, in John 17, we find Jesus, God’s son, calling out to God, coming before him and praying.  Even Jesus!  He prays for himself, the disciples and all future believers, and what he prays for is life changing.

Come engage in the prayers of Jesus and how they develop our ideas for evangelism and what we should be aiming towards as we pray in the 21st century.

Pastor Reid Matthais

Bible Reading:  John 17:20-26, John 15:18-25  NIV
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Prayer Request
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.

Holy Baptism
At this Sunday’s service Cody Jolly, second child of Matthew Jolly and Cara Quinn and Zac Steicke, second child of Ryan and Jess Steicke will be welcomed into God’s family through Holy Baptism.

The Good Shepherd Remembrance Service
 An opportunity to reflect on the lives of loved ones who have gone before us, will occur on Saturday November 17th at 1:30pm.  If you, or someone close to you has encountered loss, come as we remember together the lives of people who touched us greatly.

We are excited to have Pastor Mark Worthing, author and scholar, to share at our men’s breakfast on Saturday, November 17th at 7:30am.  Come hear about the new books he has written and enjoy his wit as he shares with us from his own Lutheran story and heritage.

New Members Information Evenings
Will be two consecutive Wednesdays at the end of November.  On the 21st and 28th of November, those who are wanting to join Good Shepherd Lutheran Church are welcome to come and hear and be part of the future of this place of worship.  The sessions will begin at 7:00pm. and tentatively conclude at 8:30pm.

Ladies Fellowship Meeting
Christmas lunch 4th December at the Blue Gums Hotel $20.90 per head – payment to
Dawn Spencer.

It’s that time of the year again to cook honey biscuits for Lutheran Community Care.  These are distributed to those less fortunate such as the residents at Glenside and the RAH.  No nuts or hundreds and thousands!  Iced with long sprinkles or plain OK.  Please leave in the church kitchen in a container labelled “Ladies Fellowship” by Sunday 25th November.

Support for the Family Hub Christmas Activities
The Family Hub supports 250 families.  They are planning to bring a little Christmas cheer into the lives of the children by having a family BBQ and giving each child a small gift.  To standardise gifts they have requested financial support rather than actual gifts.  You will be able to financially support the Family Hub next Sunday 25th November through various ways:
• placing a donation in an envelope in the box on the platform at the front of the church (where food donations are stored).
• purchasing lunch after service and before the Half Yearly meeting -sausages $2, steak sandwich $4, family package 10 sausages for $15.
• purchase plants from the plant sale in the hall.
• if you will not be at church on that Sunday you can donate by depositing your donation into the following church account BSB 704-942  Account 129523 (marked clearly Family Hub).

Experience Christmas Volunteers Needed! 
We are looking for people to be involved – please chat to Chelsea Schiller 0447 225 517 chelsea.schiller@paravista.org.au if you’d like to be involved in any way.

From the Office

Half Yearly Meeting
All congregation members are invited to attend an exciting recap of the last six months and gaze into the future.  Begins after the second service on Sunday 25th November 2018 at 12pm.

Minute Secretary
Are you a good listener, able to summarise what you hear?  At the Half Yearly Meeting on November 25th we are seeking to elect a new Minute Secretary for our church.  The role is not time consuming, and involves attending our church's general meetings twice a year to take minutes, and providing the draft minutes to the Chair for review.  Handover and support is available.  Please contact Keren Sutton or the church office to nominate.

Time Out/Devotion Books
If anyone would like to order a 2019 Time Out Devotion book please let the office know via email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au or phone 8263 5087

Yearbook 2018
If anyone would like to order a 2019 Year Book please let the office know via email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au or phone 8263 5087.

Notice Board

Trinity Place – Serviced Apartments Available!
Trinity Place is a part of the Aged Care Ministry of Trinity Lutheran Church at Pasadena.

We provide 32 serviced apartments as a part of our Retirement Village, and some apartments have recently been vacated. 

If you are retired, independent, looking to downsize and would like some basic assistance (such as a midday meal, laundry, cleaning), please contact Matt Johns on 8277 2446 or visit our website www.trinityplace.com.au.

Peter Steicke’s new book ‘Favoured’ is now available in paperback on pre-order now.  Books are $20 each and will be available from this Sunday onward in between services and after the 10.30 service from Debbie Wesselingh.

Live Christmas Trees
Holy Cross Birdwood is once again offering live Christmas trees for $40.  If you wish to order one contact John Dollling 8367 5296 or jdolling@bigpond.net.au by Sunday 25th November.  Proceeds are used to support chaplains in schools.

“Hymns We Love”
Come for a time of informal community singing of hymns you love.  To be held at
Zion Lutheran Church, 15-17 Glynburn Road, Glynde on the first Monday of the month starting November 5th, then December 3rd and January 7th.  Come at 10-30 for cuppa and biscuits.  No cost – just come!

If you need more information, please contact Joy Mildren, organist, 0458 650 135/8367 9969.

The Franklin Graham tour is coming in the first part of 2019.  We encourage anyone who wants to be part of the tour to pick up a flier in the café of Good Shepherd and share them with whomever they come into contact.

“The Lord is near to all who call on him,

    to all who call on him in truth.”

Psalm 145:18

The Division of Labour

When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Matthew 9:36

As Jesus is looking over the crowds who have been following him, he doesn’t see them as tasks, or as appointments, or worse yet – patients to be cured.  What he does see, is a large group of people who live life on the outer edges near hysteria.  Somewhere along the way, life has become difficult for them; it harasses them, pesters them and leaves them helpless in search of God only knows what.

But Jesus looks on them with compassion.

This word, in the original language, is fascinating, and when we take Jesus’ compassion seriously, we recognise a new perspective on evangelism – he sees this group of people as a beautiful and bountiful crop for God’s kingdom, ripened to perfection.

This week, take the journey as we explore the short passage of Matthew 9:35-38 and gaze into the future of how the Church works in the Kingdom.

Pastor Reid Matthais

Bible Reading:  1 Pet 3:15-18, Matthew 9:35-38  NIV
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Prayer Request
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.

New Members Information Evenings will be two consecutive Wednesdays at the end of November.  On the 21st and 28th November, those who are wanting to join Good Shepherd Lutheran Church are welcome to come and hear and be part of the future of this place of worship.  The sessions will begin at 7:00pm and tentatively conclude at 8:30pm.

We are excited to have Pastor Mark Worthing, author and scholar, to share at our men’s breakfast on Saturday, November 17th at 7:30am.  Come hear about the new books he has written and enjoy his wit as he shares with us from his own Lutheran story and heritage.

The Good Shepherd Remembrance Service
An opportunity to reflect on the lives of loved ones who have gone before us, will occur on Saturday November 17th at 1:30pm.  If you, or someone close to you has encountered loss, come as we remember together the lives of people who touched us greatly.

AGM Ladies Fellowship Meeting
Christmas lunch 4th December at the Blue Gums Hotel $20.90 per head – payment to
Dawn Spencer.

Thank You from the Family Hub 
On Monday 29th we delivered Sunday's donations to the Family Hub.  They continue to be amazed at the generosity of the people at Para Vista.  Thank you for your support throughout the year and to the Transform group for sorting the donations which saved a lot of time when we delivered the goods.

On Friday 7th food parcels were given to families in need.  This was largely possible due to our continued support.  One particular case was distressing.  A year 9 student was admitted to hospital suffering from malnutrition.  On investigation it was discovered there was little food in the house and the student was not eating to allow her younger siblings sufficient food.

Please continue to pray for the work of the Family Hub and for the staff and all the volunteers.

Support for the Family Hub Christmas Activities
The Family Hub supports 250 families.  They are planning to bring a little Christmas cheer into the lives of the children by having a family BBQ and giving each child a small gift.  In November there will not be a collection of goods but you will have an opportunity to make a financial donation to help defray the cost of purchasing these gifts.  More details will be provided later.  There will also be a BBQ after both services on Sunday 25th November  All proceeds will go to the Family Hub to be used to support their family Christmas activities.

Save the Date for “Experience Christmas”
YOU are invited to join us to experience the wonder and excitement of Christmas. Explore the Christmas Story, and experience how this event, many years ago, continues to be a gift to us today.  There will be Christmas activities, carols, a story corner, prayer space and much more – many different ways to immerse yourself in Christmas.

We are looking for people to be involved – please chat to Chelsea Schiller 0447 225 517 chelsea.schiller@paravista.org.au if you’d like to be involved in any way.

From the Office

Half Yearly Meeting
On Sunday 25th November we are pleased to have the opportunity to share in the Half Yearly Meeting.  Beginning at 12:00pm, right after the second service, we’ll have an opportunity to look at and discuss some of the future ideas for Good Shepherd.  There will be a light lunch provided along with our regular tea and coffee.

SHIN
What is SHIN?  Salisbury Hills Interchurch Network Inc.  Our congregation supports a Christian Pastoral Care Worker (Chaplin) through this organisation.  The Federal Government has affirmed the importance of school chaplaincy by continuing financial support in the recent budget.  Chaplaincy in schools is making a difference to children and families in our community. Here's an example from one of our Chaplin’s:

‘As this year has progressed my two days at the school have continued to be fun and busy but full of heart melting, beautiful moments.  I had a parent (going through a difficult life situation) leave a session with me the other day saying that they felt like they had 'hope again'.  My involvement with 'What's the Buzz?' (social skills program) has developed this term, as school leadership have asked me to help train social work and psychology students in the program and get them running groups in the school as well.  This has been great as more students are now in the program across the school meeting - a great need in our school community.  I want to thank you for all of your incredible support and prayers; it has definitely been felt and is much appreciated.’ 

Please keep this ministry in your prayers.

Updating the Manse
The manse renovation of the kitchen and dining area has been completed.  Thank you to Chris Hample, Peter Nitschke, Colin Rieger, James Przibilla and Mike Hancock for their efforts in keeping the costs down.

Church Library
The library has been audited and a number of old unused resources have been removed from circulation.  These items have been placed onto a trolley in the hall area in front of the library.  Please feel free to help yourself to these items to use as your own resource.  We request the items not be returned to the library as this will cause issues with the cataloguing system.  If you wish to borrow items from the library you will require a library card.  Please contact the office or mark your connect card with “library card”.

Notice Board

Peter Steicke’s new book ‘Favoured’ is now available in paperback on pre-order now.  Books are $20 each and will be available from this Sunday onward in between services and after the 10.30 service from Debbie Wesselingh.

Live Christmas Trees
Holy Cross Birdwood is once again offering live Christmas trees for $40.  If you wish to order one contact John Dollling 8367 5296 or jdolling@bigpond.net.au by Sunday 25th November.  Proceeds are used to support chaplains in schools.

“Hymns We Love”
Come for a time of informal community singing of hymns you love.  To be held at
Zion Lutheran Church, 15-17 Glynburn Road, Glynde on the first Monday of the month starting November 5th, then December 3rd and January 7th.  Come at 10-30 for cuppa and biscuits.  No cost – just come!

If you need more information, please contact Joy Mildren, organist, 0458 650 135/8367 9969.

The Franklin Graham tour is coming in the first part of 2019.  We encourage anyone who wants to be part of the tour to pick up a flier in the café of Good Shepherd and share them with whomever they come into contact.

“As a father has compassion on his children,

so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;..”

Psalm 103:13

The Power of Honest Evangelism

How does a life of adventure sound?  A life filled with travel to distant countries, travelling with the kind of people you would trust with your life.  A life filled with opportunities to do great things and help people.  What if you got paid to live this amazing life?  Sounds too good to be true doesn’t it?

This kind of life is just my interpretation of the many Australian Defence Force recruitment ads from the TV.  They mention the sunny side of life in the defence forces but don’t tend to mention the intense drills, and personal sacrifice that are also required.  They overlook the reality of deployment to war zones and areas of conflict.  They don’t tell you about the suffering that can also be involved or the possibility of serious injury or death.

Don’t get me wrong, I admire and respect those who put their lives on the line to protect me and my family and our freedom and way of life in Australia.  But there is a good analogy here with our text for this week.

In 1 Peter 4:12-19, Peter tells us not to be surprised by the suffering we encounter as Christians.  This might come as a shock to some people, but the life of a Christian never promised to be one free of suffering and trial.  Jesus himself said, those who want to be my disciples must take up their own cross and follow me.  Yet a life of following Jesus is still one full of fun and adventure; Jesus also said I have come so that you may have life, life in all its fullness.

We also must remember that we are involved not just in the physical world but also in a spiritual battle. When we take the Word of God and the message of salvation in Christ out into our community we would be foolish to think that the enemy would simply move out of the way and let the ‘Christian soldiers’ trample through his territory.  The more serious we get about sharing Jesus’ love with others the more resistance we can expect to face.

So, what are we to do then with the question of suffering?  Not only does it affect us in in our attempts to minister to others, but it is also a major stumbling block to faith for many who do not yet know Jesus?  Join us this Sunday while we wrestle with these questions and continue to explore practical evangelism.

Vicar Mat von Stanke

Bible Reading:  1 Pet 3:15-18, 1 Peter 4:12-19  NIV
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Prayer Request
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.

Thank You from Transform Youth
This term’s service project for Transform was to cook meals to be frozen and then given away to people in need.  We wanted to thank you all for your support of this project.  We were able to prepare more than 30 meals, some of which have already gone to families in need.
Thank you for helping us to bless our community in this way.

Prayer Walk this Saturday
Everyone is invited to be part of Good Shepherd's Prayer Walk this Saturday 3rd November at 10am.  We will be praying over the church and school grounds in entirety.  Meet in the church café.

AGM Ladies Fellowship Meeting
Christmas lunch 4th December at the Blue Gums Hotel $20.90 per head – payment to
Dawn Spencer.

Save the Date for “Experience Christmas”
YOU are invited to join us to experience the wonder and excitement of Christmas. Explore the Christmas Story, and experience how this event, many years ago, continues to be a gift to us today.  There will be Christmas activities, carols, a story corner, prayer space and much more – many different ways to immerse yourself in Christmas.

We are looking for people to be involved – please chat to Chelsea Schiller 0447 225 517 chelsea.schiller@paravista.org.au if you’d like to be involved in any way.

Maranatha Health
The Maranatha Health Australia team is looking for a new staff member.  We are seeking a dynamic and passionate person to oversee donor development, fundraising and volunteer management.

Hours:  Part time, 0.4 FTE

Location:  The role will be based in our office in the north eastern suburbs of Adelaide.

Visit https://maranathahealth.org/stories/latest-news/were-hiring! for more information.  Applications close Friday 2nd November.

Notice Board

Peter Steicke’s new book ‘Favoured’ is now available in paperback on pre-order now.  Books are $20 each and will be available from this Sunday onward in between services and after the 10.30 service from Debbie Wesselingh.

Live Christmas Trees
Holy Cross Birdwood is once again offering live Christmas trees for $40.  If you wish to order one contact John Dollling 8367 5296 or jdolling@bigpond.net.au by Sunday 25th November.  Proceeds are used to support chaplains in schools.

“Hymns We Love”
Come for a time of informal community singing of hymns you love.  To be held at
Zion Lutheran Church, 15-17 Glynburn Road, Glynde on the first Monday of the month starting November 5th, then December 3rd and January 7th.  Come at 10-30 for cuppa and biscuits.  No cost – just come!

If you need more information, please contact Joy Mildren, organist, 0458 650 135/8367 9969.

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”

2 Timothy 2:15

Reformed Evangelism

To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people.

I have to guiltily confess that often, when I read the New Testament epistles, I skip the introduction and get right to the meat.  Generally, when we read the Epistles, we can make a good guess that Paul wrote it (not always the case, but a logical assumption) and that he’s writing to some believers.  But in the 21st century, we sometimes fail to take seriously what a profound thing it was for Paul to encourage believers from pagan cultures such as Corinth, Ephesus and…

Rome.

How difficult would it be for this circular letter to be passed around by the believers in and around Jerusalem that Paul finds no difficulty with Romans coming to know who God is in Jesus Christ?  God should only be on our side.  Those Romans, the ones who are persecuting us, should be remanded to the pits of hell for the things they do to us.  How can Paul actually think this is a good idea?

Paul’s words, in my opinion, are an example of 1st century reformation in evangelism.

Find out this week what it means for evangelism to be re-formed in the 21st century and ideas about how to share the gospel of Christ in and around our own ‘Rome.’

Pastor Reid Matthias

Bible Reading:  1 Pet 3:15-18, Rom 1:7-16

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

Prayer Requests: 

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

Praise Point

At the 10.30am service this Sunday Mackenzie Roennfeldt, daughter of Lisa and Ryan will be welcomed into God’s family through Holy Baptism.

The Parable of the Talents

Three weeks ago, during a children’s message, we were discussing the parable of the talents and God’s incredibly abundant generosity.  In giving the servants five talents, two talents and one talent, the master understood that he was taking a risk, but knowing the gifts of the servants, he gave them no direction how to grow the money.  Just participate.

Well, on that Sunday, I gave a fifty dollar note, a twenty and a ten to three different children to see if the experiment would work in the 21st century.

Boy, did it ever.

Piper Bowden was given $50 and with her family’s help, she raised an extra $125 making and selling baked goods at various functions.  The money they raised will help the Transform confirmation class make meals this weekend for the hungry.

Lucy Schmidt was given $20 and with her family’s help, they were able to use those funds to help out at a school in Vanuatu.  Lucy took photos and a video for the class in Vanuatu.  They were so appreciative that they sang a song to the family.

Elisha Liebelt was given $10, and his family, while journeying into Adelaide, purchased some food for a homeless man and then had a faithful discussion with him.

Is this a pathway for all of us to use the ‘talents’ God gives us to multiply them and serve in His kingdom?

Preparing for Marriage Seminar 2018

Saturday 27th October 9am – 5pm and continuing on Sunday 28th October 1.30pm to 5.30pm at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 388 Montague Road, Para Vista.  An enjoyable, interactive, non-threatening way to share time with your partner and other couples, bringing benefits that can last a lifetime.

Topics include: resolving conflict, realistic expectations, communication, and the meaning of marriage.  Presented in a relaxed adult educational style (it is not counselling).  For couples planning to marry and for those recently married.

Cost $100 couple

For more information or to book, please contact Merv and Ros Thiele 0429009847 or email: mervrost@bigpond.net.au

AGM Ladies Fellowship Meeting

Tuesday 30th October Bible Study with Pastor Reid

As this will be our last meeting a reminder to pay fees now due.

Christmas lunch 4th December at the Blue Gums Hotel $20.90 per head – payment to

Dawn Spencer.

Ingle Farm Family Hub

The next collection will be on Sunday Oct 28th at both services.

Items that are urgently required to support families in need are:

• nappies (except for new babies) - these are expensive items but some groups have decided to donate as a group to lessen the cost

• cleaning products

• pump hand wash

• slices for their breakfast programme- can have up to 70 children attend

• small containers of margarine

• garbage bags  - green and white

Maranatha Health

The Maranatha Health Australia team is looking for a new staff member.  We are seeking a dynamic and passionate person to oversee donor development, fundraising and volunteer management. 

Hours:  Part time, 0.4 FTE

Location:  The role will be based in our office in the north eastern suburbs of Adelaide.

Visit https://maranathahealth.org/stories/latest-news/were-hiring! for more information.  Applications close Friday 2nd November.

From the Office

Church Library

The library has been audited and a number of old unused resources have been removed from circulation.  These items have been placed onto a trolley in the hall area in front of the library.  Please feel free to help yourself to these items to use as your own resource.  Request the items are not returned to the library as this will cause issues with the cataloguing system.  Remember if you wish to borrow items from the library you will require a library card.  If you require one please contact the office or mark your connect card with “library card”.

Updating the Manse

The manse is currently undergoing a significant upgrade to the kitchen, dining and living area.  If you have any time spare in the next week please let Stephen or the office know of your availability and the skill you may have to assist in keeping costs to a minimum. 

Notice Board

Peter Steicke’s new book ‘Favoured’ is now available in paperback on pre-order now.  Contact Debbie Wesselingh to order your copy today.

Live Christmas Trees

Holy Cross Birdwood is once again offering live Christmas trees for $40.  If you wish to order one contact John Dollling 8367 5296 or jdolling@bigpond.net.au by Sunday November 25th.  Proceeds are used to support chaplains in schools.

“Hymns We Love”

Come for a time of informal community singing of hymns you love.  To be held at 

Zion Lutheran Church, 15-17 Glynburn Road, Glynde on the first Monday of the month starting November 5th, then December 3rd and January 7th.  Come at 10-30 for cuppa and biscuits.  No cost – just come!

If you need more information, please contact Joy Mildren, organist, 0458 650 135/8367 9969.

Glynde Lutheran Church

A concert to support the Kwatja Etatha Playgroup in Alice Springs coordinated by Lutheran Community Care Sunday, 28 October - 2.30pm Glynde Lutheran Church 15–17 Glynburn Road, Glynde (carpark entry – Lewis Road.)  Featuring the Adelaide Benefit Concert Choir associated performers and community choirs.  Cost: $20 or $10 concession or donation at the door.  RSVP to Peter Burke, Event Organiser on 0411 872 461 to assist with interval catering.

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”  And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”

Isaiah 6:8

The Intersection of Hospitality and Evangelism

“Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

- Jesus, to a woman with an alabaster jar of perfume.

These are words that every person longs to hear.  During our series in hearing about practical evangelism, we’ve heard words of preparation, availability and encouragement.  Today, we hear about the ability of Jesus to look past the poor hospitality of his host to see beyond the ‘presumed’ sin of the woman, and look upon her faith that saves her.

Who is the host?

What does it mean to incorporate hospitality in evangelism?

How does evangelism look past sin to the faithfulness of those who are longing to come close to the Saviour?

This week Assistant Bishop Stephen Schultz will share with us the saving faith in Christ Jesus and the peace that comes from it.

Pastor Reid Matthias

Bible Reading:  1 Peter 3:15-18; Luke 7:36-50

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

Prayer Request

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. 

Preparing for Marriage Seminar 2018

Saturday 27th October 9am – 5pm and continuing on Sunday 28th October 1.30pm to 5.30pm at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 388 Montague Road, Para Vista.  An enjoyable, interactive, non-threatening way to share time with your partner and other couples, bringing benefits that can last a lifetime.

Topics include: resolving conflict, realistic expectations, communication, and the meaning of marriage.  Presented in a relaxed adult educational style (it is not counselling).  For couples planning to marry and for those recently married.

Cost $100 couple

For more information or to book, please contact Merv and Ros Thiele 0429009847 or email: mervrost@bigpond.net.au

AGM Ladies Fellowship Meeting

Tuesday 30th October Bible Study with Pastor Reid

As this will be our last meeting a reminder to pay fees now due.

Christmas lunch 4th December at the Blue Gums Hotel $19.90 per head – payment to Dawn Spencer.

From the Office

Synod Popular Report

As per our conversation over Coffee and Theology last Sunday, the attached link is a copy of the popular report presented by the Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand.  In it you will find a brief description of the decisions made by the 19th General Synod that meant in Sydney.

We will continue our Coffee and Theological discussion this Sunday looking at the questions that arise from hermeneutics (how we read the Bible) with regards to 1 Timothy 2:8-15 and 1 Corinthians 14:26-40.  http://www.convention2018.lca.org.au/category/news/

Updating the Manse

The manse is currently undergoing a significant upgrade to the kitchen, dining and living area.  If you have any time spare in the next week please let Stephen or the office know of your availability and the skill you may have to assist in keeping costs to a minimum. 

Church Library

The library computer has been upgraded into the 20th century - now running a Windows based system rather than DOS.  Please be patient as our librarians endeavour to bring the system back up to speed.  It is intended that all members will be able to access the system via the church website allowing you to browse the available resources from anycomputer.  You will require a library card to borrow items.  If you require one, please contact the office or mark your connect card with “library card”.

Notice Board

Peter Steicke’s new book ‘Favoured’ is now available in paperback on pre-order now.  Contact Peter directly to order your copy today.  psteicke@starfishoz.com.au

Holy Cross Birdwood Christmas Trees

$40 each

Contact Susan Ronan on 8568 5102 or susanronan@bigpond.com

“Hymns We Love”

Come for a time of informal community singing of hymns you love.  To be held at 

Zion Lutheran Church, 15-17 Glynburn Road, Glynde on the first Monday of the month starting November 5th, then December 3rd and January 7th.  Come at 10-30 for cuppa and biscuits.  No cost – just come!

If you need more information, please contact Joy Mildren, organist, 0458 650 135/8367 9969.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Luke 19:10

What is Your Story?

‘Whether he was a sinner or not, I don’t know.  One thing I do know.  I was blind but now I see.’

Unnamed blind man, 1st century Israel

We have this quote from a man who had been healed.  From birth, he had not been able to see, and after an encounter with Jesus, what was previously only a dream had become reality.  From this experience, the seeing man begins the long, arduous, beautiful journey of evangelism.  Now, as he encounters all sorts of people who are afraid, both priests, family and lay people alike, he must see and tell how his own life intersects with this encounter with Jesus.

Even if it means against direct opposition.

Come and experience the story of the seeing man and the experience of our speaker this week, Kathy Pluck, as we see the evangelical scriptures from a different perspective.

Pastor Reid Matthias

Bible Reading:  1 Peter 3:15-18  John 9:13-25
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Prayer Request
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.

Preparing for Marriage Seminar 2018
Saturday 27th October 9am – 5pm and continuing on Sunday 28th October 1.30pm to 5.30pm at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 388 Montague Road, Para Vista.  An enjoyable, interactive, non-threatening way to share time with your partner and other couples, bringing benefits that can last a lifetime.

Topics include: resolving conflict, realistic expectations, communication, and the meaning of marriage.  Presented in a relaxed adult educational style (it is not counselling).  For couples planning to marry and for those recently married.

Cost $100 couple
For more information or to book, please contact Merv and Ros Thiele 0429009847 or email: mervrost@bigpond.net.au

From the Board
Thanks to Craig (the architect of our recently completed building project) and his wife Rosanne Vale, who generously donated to our congregation one of the framed autumn photos exhibited at the August SALA exhibition.

Finance Report
Offerings
January – September 2018
Total Offerings – Budget $382,500 Actual $360,196 UNDER $22,304

Budget Summary
January – August 2018
Total Income – Budget $392,220 Actual $383,778 UNDER $10,442
Total Expenses – Budget $383,224 Actual $354,686 UNDER $28,538

Notes since last published report:

• Offerings in September were around $3,930 below budget. 
• Offerings through REG were $900 under budget with plate again well under, but again similar to recent months.
• Based on recent Offerings it appears we will end the year around $35k under budget.
• Expenses were in line with budget during August and are significantly under the Budget for the year to date.

Notice Board
Holy Cross Birdwood Christmas Trees
$40 each
Contact Susan Ronan on 8568 5102 or susanronan@bigpond.com

Cambodia Mission Outreach
Join us for a pleasant Sunday afternoon of music featuring ‘Frank at the keyboard’
Dernancourt Lutheran Church Hall
Sunday 21st October at 2pm
Cost $10 (Children free)
All proceeds go to Cambodia Mission Outreach

Wend/Sorb Society of SA
You are invited to the next talk by the visiting German and Wendish author of Shores of Hope (the story of Wendish migration to Australia)
To be held at Glynde Lutheran Church
Sunday 21st October at 2pm
Topic:  The Sorbs (Wends) of Germany
Speaker:  Trudla Malinkowa

“Hymns We Love”
Come for a time of informal community singing of hymns you love.  To be held at
Zion Lutheran Church, 15-17 Glynburn Road, Glynde on the first Monday of the month starting November 5th, then December 3rd and January 7th.  Come at 10-30 for cuppa and biscuits.  No cost – just come!

If you need more information, please contact Joy Mildren, organist, 0458 650 135/8367 9969.

“Ears that hear and eyes that see—

    the Lord has made them both.”

Proverbs 20:12

Evangelism and History

Join us this Sunday to hear Pastor Peter Steicke talk about Evangelism and History.

Bible Reading:  Luke 19: 1-10
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

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

Praise Point
Congratulations to Darren Kreymborg & Kayla (nee Freund) on their wedding that was held on Sunday 30th September

From the Office

Security of church – Urgent!
Urgent request for all members on leaving the building to ensure the security of our facility.   All group leaders are to exit via the office entry and notify a staff member they are the last to leave.   If you see something that does not look right please do not ignore it but bring it to staff attention or do something about it.  If you have opened the building or any part of it, then it is your responsibility to ensure the security of the complex before you leave.

Have you lost?
A number of platters and serving items have been left in the complex after the last few functions.  Please check, and take your items home with you, as surplus items will be removed from the area after 4 weeks and placed in the community care bin.  A lost property box is also located in the ushers cupboard at the rear of the auditorium.

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 table 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

Notice Board

Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA)
The final meeting for 2018 will be held on Monday 15th October at Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place, City.  Rev. Ravinder Salooja, Director of Leipzig Mission, will tell the story of the founding in 1836 of the Dresden/Leipzig Mission as a confessional Lutheran mission society with close links to Lutherans in Prussia, and outline its role in forming the Lutheran World Convention, the forerunner of the LWF.

Please note: the AGM for FoLA will be at 6.45pm, with the main meeting to start at 7.30pm.  All welcome, supper & gold coin donation.  Note the earlier date & starting time.

Cambodia Mission Outreach
Join us for a pleasant Sunday afternoon of music featuring ‘Frank at the keyboard’
Dernancourt Lutheran Church Hall
Sunday 21st October at 2pm
Cost $10 (Children free)
All proceeds go to Cambodia Mission Outreach

Wend/Sorb Society of SA
You are invited to the next talk by the visiting German and Wendish author of Shores of Hope (the story of Wendish migration to Australia)
To be held at Glynde Lutheran Church
Sunday 21st October at 2pm
Topic:  The Sorbs (Wends) of Germany
Speaker:  Trudla Malinkowa

Valley View Op Shop
Cnr Paul’s Drive and Vale Ave
Open Mon - Fri. 9:30am – 4pm
Super Saturday Sale, 1st of every month, 9:30am – 1pm

Professional Standards Training
The following link will take you to the updated Professional Standards training schedule as well as the updated Professional Standards Webinar training schedule.
http://www.sant.lca.org.au/events/training-workshops/

Preparing for Marriage Seminar 2018
Saturday 27th October 9am – 5pm and continuing on Sunday 28th October 1.30pm to 5.30pm at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 388 Montague Road, Para Vista.  An enjoyable, interactive, non-threatening way to share time with your partner and other couples, bringing benefits that can last a lifetime.

Topics include: resolving conflict, realistic expectations, communication, and the meaning of marriage.  Presented in a relaxed adult educational style (it is not counselling).  For couples planning to marry and for those recently married.

Cost $100 couple
For more information or to book, please contact Merv and Ros Thiele 0429009847 or email: mervrost@bigpond.net.au

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

“The wise prevail through great power, and those who have knowledge muster their strength”

Proverbs 24:5