Open Handed Giving

If there is a poor person among you, one of your family members or neighbours within any of your city gates in the land the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hard-hearted or tight-fisted toward them.  Instead, you are to open your hand and freely loan to them for whatever need there is…  (Deuteronomy 15:7,8)

I really enjoy the Old Testament.

There is something powerfully poignant, though, about God’s dedication to making sure the people of Israel recognise God’s will for their lives – fulfilment in living in the land with them.  He wants to make sure everyone has the opportunity for this full life.

In these verses, I hear echoes of this fulfilment and it sounds somewhat like this:

Reach into the community with the Gospel, so that all may know Jesus and worship him.

Isn’t that truly why we are part of Good Shepherd?  Because of the mission of God, through Christ, using our hands and feet to be open handed to the community in word, deed and action?

This week, we’re taking a peek at the joy of open-handed sharing.  Because God’s hands are open to us, always overflowing with whatever need there is, we can find a template for the sacrificial life that Paul implores the Romans to undertake.

Using the texts from Deuteronomy regarding tithing (often thought of as a ‘taboo’ word in our culture), we may find a surprising twist on God’s good humour in sharing life together.

For further study, read Deuteronomy 14:22-15:11.

What surprises you about God’s desire for tithing?  What is the benefit of open handed giving?  What do you feel when you read/hear the word ‘tithe?’  Can you think of one time when you have been open handed, sharing your gifts without thought of repayment, that brought you great joy?

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Reading:  Deuteronomy 15:7-11
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.

Praise Point
This Sunday at the 10.30am service we will be welcoming Harrison William Richards, son of Troy and Rachael Richards, into God’s family through Holy Baptism.

Food Collection for the Family Hub
Next Sunday October 27th will be our last food collection for The Family Hub for 2019.  The next collection will be either February or March 2020.   The Hub sincerely thank all members of the congregation who have contributed so generously during 2019.

As this collection will cover 3 months, as well as the busy Christmas period, the Hub have indicated the following items are required to continue to support those in need :

Tuna cans
Pasta sauces
2 minute noodles
Meals in a can
Tinned vegetables
Pancake mix
Cake mix
Cheese – in all forms
Dish detergent

As in 2019 there will be an opportunity to support the Hub's Christmas activities.  More details closer to the event

Step Up to Communion
Young people aged 10 and over, and their parents, are invited to take part in our Step Up program to prepare for Holy Communion.  Taking the approach that parents are the primary faith developers in their children, Step Up is designed to support parents in preparing their child for Holy Communion.

Step 1 (Launch) Family Lunch – Sunday 20th October, 12:30-2:30pm in the church hall.
To register please contact Georgie Schuster, Young Families Coordinator at georgie.schuster@paravista.org.au  More information is available on the Church website http://paravista.org.au/baptism-setup/

Good Shepherd Remembrance Service 2019
We’re having another Remembrance Service on Saturday November 9th at 1:30pm.  It’s a time and place to remember loved ones who have died, to share our grief with one another, and to seek God’s comfort in Jesus.  It’s open to all who would like to come.  As part of the service, family members and friends will have an opportunity to light a candle.

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

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

Pr Rolly Stahl

From the Office

Front Office Closure
Due to the front office reception position vacancy the church office will be closed on Mondays till further notice commencing from 21st October.  Please email churchenquires@paravista.org.au or leave a message on the answering service and staff will get back to you.

Church Phone System
We are aware that our phone system may not work effectively in some instances and are currently having an issue with updating the answering service.  Please be patient when leaving a message as we do check them.  We are seeking to upgrade the system in the near future.

Mission Vision Report 

Offerings

September - 2019
Sept 2018 Sept 2019 Sept budget 2019 Total Offering Budget 2019
Offerings $40,070 $38,085 $41,300 $499,999

August  – 2019

Notes since last published report:
• Offerings till the end of September are currently $42,000.00 below the vision for the year.

Regular Electronic Giving (REG)
www.lll.org.au/REG
REG is a way for our members to regularly support the mission of our church.  Details of transactions are kept totally confidential. 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 this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg  use BSB 704942 and Account number 100354939,
Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details
BSB 704942. Account number 10354939

Give Away
The church has upgraded the crockery and now has an abundant surplus of dinner, bread & butter and side plates along with cups and saucers.  If you or you know anyone who would like to use the items please contact the church office.

Noticeboard

Christmas Trees Available
High quality live Christmas trees are available again this year.  These are supplied by Holy Cross Lutheran Church Birdwood.  All proceeds go towards School Pastoral Care Workers in the Torrens Valley area.

Trees will be delivered on Saturday 14th December to a yet unspecified site in the NE suburbs (last 2 years to Golden Grove Lutheran Church).  Orders, with payment, need to be into John Dolling (83675296/jdolling@bigpond.net.au) by Sunday December 1st.

Cost of a tree is $45.  You can nominate height of tree required – 5.6 or 7 foot and they will match your request as close as possible.

“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine."

Proverbs 3:9-10

God's Gifts into Gear

Way back in the 1970’s, when the rivalry between Ford and Holden was even more passionate than today, fellas used to debate how fast cars could go.  100 miles an hour (or 160 km/hour) was the difference between a fast car and a slow car.

We used to joke about our four-cylinder “jam-jars” reaching 100 miles per hour… if we drove to the top of the Willunga Hill bypass, and then came down in “angel gear”.  “Angel gear” was putting the car in neutral and letting gravity do its work.  It was called “angel gear” because if your brakes failed near the bottom, you’d need angels to save you!

In most circumstances if you want to drive somewhere, but don’t put the car into gear, what happens?  It goes nowhere.  There might be a lot of noise revving the engine, but no movement!  It’s not able to do what it was made to do!

That’s what happens when we fail to recognise the gifts and abilities God has given us and engage them in service to others.  We might be receiving good feeding, but if our faith is not active in love we can become self-indulged, lethargic and unhealthy followers of Jesus - thus making no “Jesus type difference” into the lives of others.

This Sunday we’re digging into Romans 12:1-8.  Paul anchors us in the grace of God which brings us into a life of worship.  It’s about renewing our minds in God’s truth and putting our bodies, hearts and minds into acts of serving others.  It’s getting God’s gifts into gear.  It’s what God made us for!

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Reading:  Romans 12:1-8
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.

Step Up to Communion
Young people aged 10 and over, and their parents, are invited to take part in our Step Up program to prepare for Holy Communion.  Taking the approach that parents are the primary faith developers in their children, Step Up is designed to support parents in preparing their child for Holy Communion.

Step 1 (Launch) Family Lunch – Sunday 20th October, 12:30-2:30pm in the church hall.
To register please contact Georgie Schuster, Young Families Coordinator at georgie.schuster@paravista.org.au  More information is available on the Church website http://paravista.org.au/baptism-setup/

Are you a Parent/Grandparent?
Are you someone who shares a passion for sharing faith with young children?
Would you be interested in helping out with the Kid’s Space on Sunday mornings?
If so, I would love to hear from you!  I am interested in finding people who would like to share their passion and a little time to invest in our younger generation.  Even a little goes a long way!  Please let me know if this is something that interests you.  I’m happy to chat with you about what this might look like.

Please talk with me in person, phone 08 82647966 or email me on georgie.schuster@paravista.org.au  I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

From the Office

Information Material
To assist staff, all information material for notice board and café are to be passed to the Church Office for approval.
This is to ensure notice boards and tables do not become over crowded, and that all items align with our community’s beliefs and values.

Staff Position
As many of you would know, a valued member of the Good Shepherd Congregational staff is being called to use her gifts elsewhere for a time.  Belinda Konrad, along with Andreas, Matthew and Faith, will be moving to Vietnam where God will use them greatly.  We wish them God’s greatest blessings as they set off on their new adventure.

As such, we are advertising for the position of Good Shepherd Reception and Administration.  If you would like a Role Description and more information, please contact the Good Shepherd Congregational office.  Applications and resumes will be received for three weeks with interviews following.

Air Conditioners
The evaporative coolers in the church have been opened for the summer months.  Overview instructions for use are situated on the wall next to the controllers.  For units in the rear foyer of the hall and Cafe PLEASE turn the units on and off only using the on/off button.  The units have been pre-set for the most economical use and effectiveness and adjusting the settings may render the unit ineffective.  If you experience any problem using the units please email the congregational manager, speak with office staff during office hours or leave a note in the communications book in the Cafe.

Mission Vision Support
Donation amounts have been updated again so look for the graphs around the complex.
This month’s support will go towards Chaplaincy. Donations will go towards supporting school Chaplin’s in their roles within our community. Look for the Mission Vision Support envelopes at the entry doors and consider how you can assist, or donations can be made to:
BSB: 704942
Account number: 100713424
Reference: Chaplaincy

Facilities Maintenance Front Garden
Our front garden is just about covered by mulch but there is still a small amount to be spread.  If you have half an hour to spare to assist in spreading the mulch at any time the garden will be appreciative.  If you do not have a wheelbarrow or shovel to move the mulch there is one available in the church store.

Noticeboard

Christmas Trees Available
High quality live Christmas trees are available again this year.  These are supplied by Holy Cross Lutheran Church Birdwood.  All proceeds go towards School Pastoral Care Workers in the Torrens Valley area.

Trees will be delivered on Saturday 14th December to a yet unspecified site in the NE suburbs (last 2 years to Golden Grove Lutheran Church).  Orders, with payment, need to be into John Dolling (83675296/jdolling@bigpond.net.au) by Sunday December 1st.

Cost of a tree is $45.  You can nominate height of tree required – 5.6 or 7 foot and they will match your request as close as possible.

Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) & AGM
The next meeting is on Monday 14th October.  Keen cyclist and family researcher Janis Haynes explored by bike the home villages of the 1838 Zebra passengers, and then investigated the homes her great-grandfather Faehrmann built for them after settling in Hahndorf.  Come along for the ride!  The presentation begins at 7.30 pm but please note that the AGM begins at 6.45pm.  Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place in the city.  Gold coin donation and supper.  All welcome.

GLYNDE SPRING FAIR
In the New Community Centre at 22 Avenue Rd, Glynde
Saturday 12th October from 9.00am
Devonshire Morning Tea
Continuous Sausage Sizzle
Plenty of Stalls – cakes, biscuits, produce, plants, books, CDs, toys, craft etc
Money raised for Residential Care Home
This is a joint effort of LWSA/NT Glynde Auxiliary and ILU Residents Association.
For more information, please contact St Andrew’s Lutheran Church at Glynde on 08 8336 0130

Children’s Garden Activities at 11am

• Plant Sales
• Garden Tours
• Home-Made Jam, Chutney and Horseradish
• Tea, Coffee and Home-Made Cakes
• BBQ Sausage Sizzle

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

1 Peter 4:10

Hope Fuelled Generosity

An old and wealthy miser was at death's door.  At the request of hospital staff, the local pastor dropped in to see him.  The old man was deeply touched and pleaded for the pastor to pray for his healing: "Reverend," he whispered hoarsely, tears filling his eyes at the thought of his selfish and miserly existence, "if I recover, if God spares me, I promise you $200,000 towards the Church Restoration Fund!"

The vicar gently squeezed the man's hand and promised to pray for him, though hardly expecting him to make it through the night.  Yet miraculously, the man recovered back to full health.  The pastor, together with the Parish Council waited eagerly for the man’s donation, but after 8 weeks nothing.

Eventually, the pastor could take it no longer, so he stormed around to the man’s house and asked: "What happened to the $200,000 you promised to the church?
The miser stared at him, utterly astonished.  "When did I promise that?"
"When you were sick."
"I promised the church the sum of $200,000?"
"Yes."
"Well, that just shows how sick I was!"

We laugh at characters like the stingy Mr Bean, perhaps because we see a bit of ourselves.  Truth is, our attitude to the things in our lives reflects what’s going on in our hearts.

Our heavenly Father is most interested in our hearts.  First, because he loves us and yearns for us do life with him.  Second, his restoration plans for his world can only happen through hearts surrendered to Jesus.

In our culture, advertising sows seeds of discontent, enticing us to buy, consume, and accumulate.  The Fear Of Missing Out drives our choices and habits.  We confuse our needs with wants, and our wants are never ending!  As if this life is ALL there is… and whoever has the most toys wins!

Have we lost sight of our identity, security and destiny in Jesus?

Jesus urges us to lift up our eyes to heaven and focus on what will last forever.  In Christ Jesus you're a loved child of the King, with an eternity to enjoy all the treasures of heaven!  With certain hope of that inheritance, we can experience contentment in life and practice the joy of being generous!

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings: Matthew 6:19-24,  1 Timothy 6:6-10,17-19
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.

Food Collection for the Family Hub
Thank you for your continued generous support of the food collection for the Family Hub.  Last week's collection was amazing.  Thank you to those who donated, sorted the goods on Sunday and helped to transport the donations to the Hub.  Amazing what team work can achieve.

Step Up to Communion
Young people aged 10 and over, and their parents, are invited to take part in our Step Up program to prepare for Holy Communion.  Taking the approach that parents are the primary faith developers in their children, Step Up is designed to support parents in preparing their child for Holy Communion.

Step 1 (Launch) Family Lunch – Sunday 20th October, 12:30-2:30pm in the church hall.
To register please contact Georgie Schuster, Young Families Coordinator at georgie.schuster@paravista.org.au  More information is available on the Church website http://paravista.org.au/baptism-setup/

Are you a Parent/Grandparent?
Are you someone who shares a passion for sharing faith with young children?
Would you be interested in helping out with the Kid’s Space on Sunday mornings?
If so, I would love to hear from you!  I am interested in finding people who would like to share their passion and a little time to invest in our younger generation.  Even a little goes a long way!  Please let me know if this is something that interests you.  I’m happy to chat with you about what this might look like.

Please talk with me in person, phone 08 82647966 or email me on georgie.schuster@paravista.org.au  I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

From the Office

Staff Position
As many of you would know, a valued member of the Good Shepherd Congregational staff is being called to use her gifts elsewhere for a time.  Belinda Konrad, along with Andreas, Matthew and Faith, will be moving to Vietnam where God will use them greatly.  We wish them God’s greatest blessings as they set off on their new adventure.

As such, we are advertising for the position of Good Shepherd Reception and Administration.  If you would like a Role Description and more information, please contact the Good Shepherd Congregational office.  Applications and resumes will be received for three weeks with interviews following.

Give Away
The church has upgraded the crockery and now has an abundant surplus of dinner, bread and butter and side plates along with cups and saucers.  If you or you know anyone who would like to use the items please contact the church office.

Air conditioners
The evaporative coolers in the church have been opened for the summer months.  Overview instructions for use are situated on the wall next to the controllers.  For units in the hall rear foyer and Cafe PLEASE turn the units on and off only using the on/off button.  The units have been pre-set for the most economical use and effectiveness and adjusting the settings may render the unit ineffective.  If you experience any problem using the units please email the congregational manager, speak with office staff during office hours or leave a note in the communications book in the Cafe.

Mission Vision Support
Donation amounts have been updated again so look for the graphs around the complex.
This month’s support will go towards Chaplaincy. Donations will go towards supporting school Chaplin’s in their roles within our community. Look for the Mission Vision Support envelopes at the entry doors and consider how you can assist, or donations can be made to:
BSB: 704942
Account number: 100713424
Reference: Chaplaincy

Facilities Maintenance Front Garden
Our front garden is just about covered by mulch but there is still a small amount to be spread.  If you have half an hour to spare to assist in spreading the mulch at any time the garden will be appreciative.  If you do not have a wheelbarrow or shovel to move the mulch there is one available in the church store.

NOTICEBOARD

Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) & AGM
The next meeting is on Monday 14th October.  Keen cyclist and family researcher Janis Haynes explored by bike the home villages of the 1838 Zebra passengers, and then investigated the homes her great-grandfather Faehrmann built for them after settling in Hahndorf.  Come along for the ride!  The presentation begins at 7.30 pm but please note that the AGM begins at 6.45pm.  Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place in the city.  Gold coin donation and supper.  All welcome.

GLYNDE SPRING FAIR
In the New Community Centre at 22 Avenue Rd, Glynde
Saturday 12th October from 9.00am
Devonshire Morning Tea
Continuous Sausage Sizzle
Plenty of Stalls – cakes, biscuits, produce, plants, books, CDs, toys, craft etc
Money raised for Residential Care Home
This is a joint effort of LWSA/NT Glynde Auxiliary and ILU Residents Association.
For more information, please contact St Andrew’s Lutheran Church at Glynde on 08 8336 0130

Children’s Garden Activities at 11am

• Plant Sales
• Garden Tours
• Home-Made Jam, Chutney and Horseradish
• Tea, Coffee and Home-Made Cakes
• BBQ Sausage Sizzle

“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.  As it is written:  “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.”

2 Corinthians 9:8-9

What is Given...

We want you to know about the grace of God that was given to the churches of Macedonia… (2 Corinthians 8:1)

I want you to know about the gift that keeps on giving.  It’s grace, isn’t it?  Certainly, when we think about gifts, we think about money, time, objects given to people we know and love, but true grace is an unmerited gift or sacrifice to people we may not know (or may not even like).  The people in Asia Minor had experienced this unmerited favour of God and were brought to their knees begging to be part of the grace-ful opportunities that marked life in the body of Christ.

So was the church in Corinth.

If there was a congregation that may have grated on the Apostle Paul’s nerves, it may have been Corinth.  Morally lax, combative congregants, divisions in the church about dogma and doctrine – these all seemed to be a thorn in the side of the church in Corinth understanding the gift that keeps on giving – God’s grace.

A miracle happened.  Something changed in their hearts.  Whether the prompting of the Holy Spirit or Paul’s first chastising letter to the Corinthians, the people came to their senses and recognised that there was something far bigger out there than just their corner of the globe.  They wanted to be part of building God’s kingdom here on earth.

This week, as we begin a five part series on The Gift that Keeps on… read chapters 8 and 9 of Second Corinthians to get a sense of the joy that comes from knowing the community’s gifts are being used for God’s glory and to release the pent up gratitude of the Corinthians.

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Readings: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
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.

Food Collection for the Family Hub
Next Sunday September 29th is food collection for the Family Hub.  This will be the second to last collection for 2019.

After auditing their supplies the Hub has indicated that their requirements to continue to support families in need are:
Tuna,
Pasta sauces
Muesli bars
Cheese – all forms i.e. grated, sliced, block
Dish detergent
Tea
Coffee

Thank you for your continued support of this project to support families in need in the district.

Ladies Fellowship
Next meeting Tuesday the 1st October at 1pm.  No guest speaker this month, but fantastic bible study by one of our Pastors, followed by great fellowship with afternoon tea.  Also bring your favourite gadget and tell us it’s use.

Step Up to Communion
Young people aged 10 and over, and their parents, are invited to take part in our Step Up program to prepare for Holy Communion.  Taking the approach that parents are the primary faith developers in their children, Step Up is designed to support parents in preparing their child for Holy Communion.

Step 1 (Launch) Family Lunch – Sunday 20th October, 12:30-2:30pm in the church hall
To register please contact Georgie Schuster, Young Families Coordinator at georgie.schuster@paravista.org.au  More information is available on the Church website http://paravista.org.au/baptism-setup/

Are you a Parent/Grandparent?
Are you someone who shares a passion for sharing faith with young children?
Would you be interested in helping out with the Kid’s Space on Sunday mornings?
If so, I would love to hear from you!  I am interested in finding people who would like to share their passion and a little time to invest in our younger generation.  Even a little goes a long way!  Please let me know if this is something that interests you.  I’m happy to chat with you about what this might look like.

Please talk with me in person, phone 08 82647966 or email me on georgie.schuster@paravista.org.au  I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

From the Office

Mission Vision Support
This month’s support will go towards the Meet N Eat team.  The team have supplied over 2300 meals this year, on a very meagre budget, to the lonely and less fortunate.  They have also listened to many stories and shared through a scrumptious hot meal the Love of Jesus to many who really need it.  Their motto ‘Come as a stranger, leave as a friend’.  Look for the Mission Vision Support envelopes at the entry doors and consider how you can assist, or donations can be made to:
BSB: 704942
Account number: 100713424
Reference: Meetneat

Facilities Safety 
We have been blessed with a wonderful facility and opportunities to provide a safe space to a great number of groups in the community.  This doesn’t just happen and time and effort are required to present it for use by all.  To keep it this way, all groups and users are reminded to watch out for each other and supervise the activities of all in a way that would leave the facility in a pleasing and acceptable standard that you would wish to find it.  This includes Sunday service.  Please note the safety signs that have been placed in/around the facility to assist in caring for our community.

Facilities Maintenance
Our front garden is looking great, thanks to a diligent few, and Salisbury council have kindly donated a load of mulch to assist in keeping the moisture in.  If you have half an hour to spare to assist in spreading the mulch at any time the garden will be appreciative.  If you do not have a wheelbarrow or shovel to move the mulch there is one available in the church store.  Please see the front office or be a great spirit and just turn up when you can and complete what you can.

Noticeboard

GLYNDE SPRING FAIR
In the New Community Centre at 22 Avenue Rd, Glynde
Saturday 12th October from 9.00am
Devonshire Morning Tea
Continuous Sausage Sizzle
Plenty of Stalls – cakes, biscuits, produce, plants, books, CDs, toys, craft etc
Money raised for Residential Care Home
This is a joint effort of LWSA/NT Glynde Auxiliary and ILU Residents Association.
For more information, please contact St Andrew’s Lutheran Church at Glynde on 08 8336 0130

“The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, 

Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,' because the kingdom of God is in your midst.”

Luke 17:20b-21

The Comforted by the Comforter

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort.

As I read those words from 2 Corinthians, I’m left with questions:  Is God the father of compassion, or is he a compassionate father?  Both?  What does it mean that God is the father of all comfort?  How is it that God comforts me when I am in despair?

These questions are part of the basic, fundamental thoughts that rumble around in the brains of most believers.  Although, in our cores, we have an idea that a peace that passes all understanding can descend on us during our time of struggle, the practicalities of it are hard to sense.  When we walk in the shadow of death and darkness, it is hard to hear a voice of comfort.  And yet, this is the promise of God through Jesus.

This week, Pastor Peter Steicke will walk us through the journey of comfort in the Holy Spirit.  Using the text from 2 Corinthians 1:3-11, Peter will shed light on the difficult path of suffering that pushes us towards God who in turn then pushes us back to each other so that we, as a body, suffer and rejoice together in spite of all difficulties.

We’ll see you on Sunday!

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Readings: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 ESV
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.

Ladies Fellowship
Next meeting 1st October.  No guest speaker this month but fantastic bible study by one of our Pastors followed by great fellowship with afternoon tea.

Food Collection for the Family Hub
Next Sunday September 29th is food collection for the Family Hub.  This will be the second to last collection for 2019.

After auditing their supplies the Hub has indicated that their requirements to continue to support families in need are:
Tuna,
Pasta sauces
Muesli bars
Cheese – all forms i.e. grated, sliced, block
Dish detergent
Tea
Coffee.

Thank you for your continued support of this project to support families in need in the district.

Step Up to Communion
Young people aged 10 and over, and their parents, are invited to take part in our Step Up program to prepare for Holy Communion.  Taking the approach that parents are the primary faith developers in their children, Step Up is designed to support parents in preparing their child for Holy Communion.

Step 1 (Launch) Family Lunch – Sunday 20th October, 12:30-2:30pm in the church hall.
To register please contact Georgie Schuster, Young Families Coordinator at georgie.schuster@paravista.org.au  More information is available on the Church website http://paravista.org.au/baptism-setup/

From the Office

Finance Report
Offerings
August  – 2019
Aug 2018 Aug 2019 Monthly budget offerings 2019        
Offerings $36,004 $34,815           $41,300

Notes since last published report:
• Offerings in August still a little down, and continue to be of concern

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

REG is a way for our members to regularly support the mission 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 this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg  use BSB 704942 and Account number 100354939,
Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details
BSB 704942. Account number 10354939

Mission Vision Support
This month’s support will go towards the Meet N Eat team.  The team have supplied over 2300 meals this year, on a very meagre budget, to the lonely and less fortunate.  They have also listened to many stories and shared through a scrumptious hot meal the Love of Jesus to many who really need it.  Their motto ‘Come as a stranger, leave as a friend’.  Look for the Mission Vision Support envelopes at the entry doors and consider how you can assist, or donations can be made to:
BSB: 704942
Account number: 100713424
Reference: Meetneat

Facilities Safety 
We have been blessed with a wonderful facility and opportunities to provide a safe space to a great number of groups in the community.  This doesn’t just happen and time and effort are required to present it for use by all.  To keep it this way, all groups and users are reminded to watch out for each other and supervise the activities of all in a way that would leave the facility in a pleasing and acceptable standard that you would wish to find it.  This includes Sunday service.  Please note the safety signs that have been placed in/around the facility to assist in caring for our community.

Facilities Maintenance
Our front garden is looking great, thanks to a diligent few, and Salisbury council have kindly donated a load of mulch to assist in keeping the moisture in.  If you have half an hour to spare to assist in spreading the mulch at any time the garden will be appreciative.  If you do not have a wheelbarrow or shovel to move the mulch there is one available in the church store.  Please see the front office or be a great spirit and just turn up when you can and complete what you can.

NOTICEBOARD

GLYNDE SPRING FAIR
In the New Community Centre at 22 Avenue Rd, Glynde
Saturday 12th October from 9.00am
Devonshire Morning Tea
Continuous Sausage Sizzle
Plenty of Stalls – cakes, biscuits, produce, plants, books, CDs, toys, craft etc
Money raised for Residential Care Home
This is a joint effort of LWSA/NT Glynde Auxiliary and ILU Residents Association.
For more information, please contact St Andrew’s Lutheran Church at Glynde on 08 8336 0130

www.sant.lca.org.au/

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Do You Want to Get Well

We have been deceived.

Somewhere deep inside all of us, I suppose, there is a vacancy, or a space – a deep void of longing to be filled – where the Deceiver whispers to us in the darkness, “You aren’t complete.”

In the Gospel narrative of Jesus’ temptation, Satan gives his own ‘theology of incompleteness’, telling the Son of God that he is not complete unless he is satisfied, unless he is safe, and unless he is powerful.  In other words:

You aren’t complete unless you are secure and whole.

Tim Keller writes in his book Walking with God through Suffering and Pain: “People now believe that we were not created primarily to serve God for his benefit.  Rather, God made the world for our benefit.”

This contemporary challenge to the ‘goodness’ of all creation comes at the expense of recognising the function and meaning of suffering in the world.  If God created the world for my benefit, and if I can somehow manipulate God to giving more blessings by being good, then when pain and suffering occurs, it follows that either God is not good, or there is no God.

Do you recognise the train of thought?

On the other hand, if we understand that God created this world for ‘goodness’ sake, then we recognise that even in pain or suffering, the glory of God can and will be revealed, especially in and through the Saviour of the world, Jesus Christ.

This week, we see through the eyes of the Suffering Servant how the glory of God is revealed in the man who the world has considered ‘incomplete’.  He has waited thirty-eight years by the pool of Bethesda.  Every day, as he gazes up towards the temple of Israel on its mountain, he is reminded that he can never make it there - so he must settle for the scraps of people who are allowed into the courtyard.

And then, the one with all the power arrives…

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Readings: John 15:1-15
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.

Praise Point
This Sunday at the 10.30am service Isla Victoria Sutherland, daughter of Ashlee and Brad, will be welcomed into God’s family through Holy Baptism.

Step Up to Communion
Young people aged 10 and over, and their parents, are invited to take part in our Step Up program to prepare for Holy Communion.  Taking the approach that parents are the primary faith developers in their children, Step Up is designed to support parents in preparing their child for Holy Communion.

Step 1 (Launch) Family Lunch – Sunday 20th October, 12:30-2:30pm in the church hall.
To register please contact Georgie Schuster, Young Families Coordinator at georgie.schuster@paravista.org.au  More information is available on the Church website http://paravista.org.au/baptism-setup/

From the Office

Mission Vision Support
This month’s support will go towards the Meet & Eat team.  The team have supplied over 2,300 meals this year on a very meagre budget to the lonely and less fortunate.  They have also listened to many stories and shared through a scrumptious hot meal the love of Jesus to many who really need it.  Their motto is ‘Come as a stranger, leave as a friend’.  Look for the Mission Vision Support envelopes at the entry doors and consider how you can assist, or donations can be made to:
BSB: 704942
Account number: 100713424
Reference: Meetneat

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

REG is a way for our members to regularly support the mission 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 this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg
Use account number 100354939, BSB 704942
Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details:
BSB 704942, account number 10354939

www.sant.lca.org.au/

“And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

Romans 5:2b-4

Jesus Shows Us How to Care

What’s been the greatest loss you’ve experienced in life?  Chances are that it was the death of a person who was near and dear to you - perhaps a parent, a husband or wife, a child, a grandparent, or a good friend.

Our grief from a significant loss is not an event, but a journey.  Grief doesn’t end with the funeral service – it can last for several years.  Some find that it casts a shadow over the rest of their lives.

We grieve because we love!  The deeper the love, the greater the grief.  Working through the devastation of not having that person in one’s life anymore is a difficult, painful, and slow process.

It’s like taking a train ride through the tunnel of a mountain.  What was once sunny and bright now feels dark and gloomy.  There are turns through the tunnel, and the journey goes on.  Time seems to stand still.  The darkness seems to remain... until coming around the last turn… and then a glimmer of light appears on the horizon.  Gradually the brightness and warmth return as you exit from the tunnel.  Yet you emerge a different person than you were before your loss.

Our hope in Jesus doesn’t prevent loss and grief.  The pain and emotions need to be felt, expressed, and worked through.  That’s a necessary and healthy part of being human.

What can we learn from Jesus as we participate in HIS ongoing ministry of care to grieving and hurting people?  As much as Jesus’ miracles amaze me, I am equally impressed with the pastoral care Jesus gives to people one on one.  This Sunday we will explore a time when Jesus turns up at a funeral, and reaches out to a widow with compassion and care.

While we may not be able to do the miracles Jesus did, we can come alongside people, listen to their stories, support them on the journey, and help them find hope in Jesus.

Our hope in Jesus gives us assurance that our tears will one day be wiped away.  At our last breath, another train will take us to a destination where pain, suffering, and grief will be a thing of the past (Revelation 7:13-17; 21:1-5).  And we will exclaim: “Ahhh, home at last!”

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 24:17-22, Luke 7:11-17
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.


Having Your Child Baptised is a short course to help parents and families prepare for their first baptism at Good Shepherd.

Our next course commences Tuesday September 3rd at 7:30pm at Good Shepherd, continuing the next two Tuesday evenings (Sept 10, 17). 

For more info and how to register: https://paravista.org.au/contact-us/baptism/

From the Office

Mission Vision Support
This month’s support will go towards the Meet N Eat team.  The team have supplied over 2,300 meals this year on a very meagre budget to the lonely and less fortunate.  They have also listened to many stories and shared through a scrumptious hot meal the love of Jesus to many who really need it.  Their motto is ‘Come as a stranger, leave as a friend’.  Look for the Mission Vision Support envelopes at the entry doors and consider how you can assist, or donations can be made to:
BSB: 704942
Account number: 100713424
Reference: Meetneat

Library Notice
A book titled ‘The case for miracles’ by Lee Strobel was donated to the library earlier this year. The book seems to have been inadvertently borrowed without using the computer or a borrowing slip and has been missing for a number of months.  There are members waiting to borrow the book and would appreciate it being returned to the ‘Return Here’ crate in the library so others can enjoy it.

Has your shelf or cupboard got an empty space?
If so a number of platters and serving items have been left in the church complex after the last few functions.  Please check the kitchen/café area and take all your items home with you as surplus items will be removed from the area after 4 weeks and placed in the community care bin.  Remember lost property box is also located on the cupboard in the hall leading from the parenting room to the rest rooms.

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

REG is a way for our members to regularly support the mission 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 this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg  use account number 100354939, BSB 704942
Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details
BSB 704942. account number 10354939

www.sant.lca.org.au/

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Being Careful

“When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.”

Romans 5:6

At that point in the history of the world, when the heart of humanity seemed to be seizing and the lifeblood of faith was diminishing, Jesus came to give his life so that we could live a new life.  Paul latched onto this thought when he wrote, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.”

The Father’s heart, Jesus, was transplanted into the body of Christ, the Church.  Now its life is mysteriously and miraculously hidden in the Father.

As the Father prepared Jesus for the crucifixion, there seemed to be a point in the book of John where God the Father spoke words of encouragement through the Son to remind God’s people that although life would not be easy, it would be taken care of.  As we journey through the 14th chapter of John (which is often used as a text for funerals), hear again the hope in Jesus as we look towards Father’s Day.

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Reading:  John 14:1-14
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.

Para Vista Women’s Fellowship
Please note, there is no meeting on the 3rd September as it is our outing.  For those going to the Old Adelaide Gaol, be informed the price for the tour and entry fee is $16.  This should be paid to Dawn Spencer on the day prior to our leaving.  The lunch at the Grand North is at your own expense.  We would like to have everyone who is going to congregate in the Good Shepherd Carpark at 9am to allocate who goes in which car.

Food Collection for Family Hub
Thank you for your continuing support of the food collection for the Family Hub.  Last Sunday, as usual, there were very generous donations of food.  These were sorted by the Transform young people who also delivered them and spent some time at the Family Hub.  Thank you to Georgie for organising this and for the parents who assisted.

Last week we reported the Karaoke Night raised $2126.  This did not account for $430 from ticket sales through the church office and other donations so the final figure raised and given to the Family Hub was $2556.  Thank you to everyone who supported the evening.  I am sure this money will be put to good use in supporting families in need.

Garden Blitz
The garden blitz to upgrade our gardens continues on Monday September 2nd  9:30am to 10:30am  (weather permitting).  Would be great to see you there for one week.


Having Your Child Baptised is a short course to help parents and families prepare for their first baptism at Good Shepherd.

Our next course commences Tuesday September 3rd at 7:30pm at Good Shepherd, continuing the next two Tuesday evenings (Sept 10, 17). 

For more info and how to register: https://paravista.org.au/contact-us/baptism/

From the Office

Library Notice
A book titled ‘The case for miracles’ by Lee Strobel was donated to the library earlier this year. The book seems to have been inadvertently borrowed without using the computer or a borrowing slip and has been missing for a number of months.  There are members waiting to borrow the book and would appreciate it being returned to the ‘Return Here’ crate in the library so others can enjoy it.

Has your shelf or cupboard got an empty space?
If so a number of platters and serving items have been left in the church complex after the last few functions.  Please check the kitchen/café area and take all your items home with you as surplus items will be removed from the area after 4 weeks and placed in the community care bin.  Remember lost property box is also located on the cupboard in the hall leading from the parenting room to the rest rooms.

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

REG is a way for our members to regularly support the mission 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 this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg  use account number 100354939, BSB 704942
Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details
BSB 704942. account number 10354939

Noticeboard

“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing..”

2 Timothy 4:8

Responding to the LORD's Mercy

In the Luther movie - with Joseph Fiennes in the lead role as Martin - there’s a scene where Luther is tormented by his guilt and sin.  He is feeling condemned, in terror of God’s judgment, and ranting.

Finding the anguished young monk in his room, his mentor asks:
“What is it you seek?”
“A merciful God, a God whom I can love.  A God who loves me,” replies Martin.
The mentor urges: “Then look to Christ.  Bind yourself to Christ and you will know God’s love.  Say to him: ‘I am yours. Save me.’” (Psalm 119:94a)

I often find myself saying the same prayer – not out of fear of God’s judgement, but in dire need of God’s help.

Similar prayers are found throughout the Psalms.  Looking back to their crisis and the Lord’s deliverance, people praise the LORD for his mercy and tell others what God has done for them.  Check out these verses from Psalm 116:

I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy.  The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and sorrow.  Then I called on the name of the LORD: “LORD, save me!”

The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.  The LORD protects the unwary; when I was brought low, he saved me.

What shall I return to the LORD for all his goodness to me?  I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the name of the LORD.  I will fulfill my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his people, in the courts of the house of the LORD - in your midst, Jerusalem.  Praise the LORD.

How are we to respond to the unfailing love of God the Father who created and sustains us; for the grace of our Lord Jesus who has made us right in God’s eyes; and to the Holy Spirit who has created faith in our once dead hearts and made us alive forever with Christ?

This Sunday we explore three words that shape our response to our Father’s compassion on us as his dearly loved and forgiven children:  Praise, Serve, Obey.

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Reading:  Psalm 103
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.

Office Closure
The office will be closed from 26th to 28th August for staff retreat.  For emergencies please contact either Stephen on 0403 180 814 or Reid on 0407 881 636.

Para Vista Women’s Fellowship
Please note, there is no meeting on the 3rd September as it is our outing.  Those going to the Old Adelaide Goal, be informed the price for the tour and entry fee is $16.  This should be paid to Dawn Spencer on the day prior to our leaving.  The lunch at the Grand North is at your own expense.  We would like to have everyone who is going to congregate in the Good Shepherd Carpark at 9am to allocate who goes in which car.

Support for Family Hub
Apologies re late notice.  This Sunday August 25th will be the next food collection for the Family Hub.  The young people in the Transform group will sort the donations.  This month, as a service project, they will deliver the goods on Sunday and spend some time at the Hub.

Karaoke Night
On Saturday 140 enthusiastic people attended the Karaoke evening.  A great time was had by all.  We raised in excess of $2,100 to support the work of the Family Hub at Ingle Farm.  The team at the Hub were amazed and excited at the success of the fundraising and were excited about programmes that it will support.  With other donations we will support the work of the Family Hub with excess of $2,600.

Thank you to all those who supported the evening by attending, donating wines for the auction and to local businesses who supported us with generous donations.

Grounds Project
As mentioned in the last couple of editions of the Weekly News, each Monday between 9:30am and 10:30am, weather permitting, we will be spending an hour restoring the garden areas to make our facilities presentable to visitors and those passing by.  Last Monday 5 enthusiastic volunteers worked extremely hard and transformed the garden area on the left of the entrance roadway.  If you have an hour to spare on any Monday you would be welcomed by the group.

SAVE THE DATE

For all who are currently in small groups and anyone interested

in more effective small group ministries at Good Shepherd.

• We’re asking all coming to bring a savoury dish or sweets to share.

• Plus, BYO drinks and wine glasses.

From the Office
Finance Report 

Offerings
July 2019

July 2018 July 2019 July budget 2019 Total offering Budget for 2019
Offerings –$4,1581 $35,238 $41,300 $499,999

Notes since last published report:
• Offerings for year up to end of July were $30,507 below budget
• Staffing, Ministry, Administration and Facilities expenses are under budget.

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

REG is a way for our members to regularly support the mission 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 this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg  use account number 100354939, BSB 704942
Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details
BSB 704942. account number 10354939

Noticeboard

"But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.  I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain.”

Psalm 3:3-4