Power to Witness, Power to Love

Who are the people in your life who have most influenced you for Jesus? 
What was it about them that helped you come to know Jesus?

It may have been your mum or dad, a grandparent, an uncle or aunt. It may have been a Sunday School teacher, a leader at a youth camp, or a person who took an interest in you.  It may have been a close friend. 

The Christian faith is passed on through trusted personal relationships. Somewhere along your journey, other Christians have loved you, introduced you to Jesus, and helped you to grow in Him. 

Yet the real Person behind all this was the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit was calling you to Jesus through the influence of God’s people.  It’s been an ongoing relay of passing the baton for about 2000 years.  And the great thing about this relay is that it ends in eternity.  Every person who receives Jesus and follows him receives forgiveness and life with God forever. 

The greatest gift you and I can share with another person is the love and good news of Jesus.  And the only way we can do this effectively is by the Holy Spirit who lives in all who trust and follow Jesus.  This Pentecost we’ll ask the Holy Spirit to give us power to witness, power to love! 

So who are you passing the baton to?

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Reading:  Acts 2:32-39   (perhaps you can read all of Acts 2)
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
Baptism of Hendrix Gabe Smith this Sunday at 10:30am; parents Trent and Calli Smith

Congregation and School AGM’s
The AGM’s of the congregation and school will be held on Sunday 27th May at 12:30pm.  The Maranatha Team will provide a soup lunch after the second service.  Information regarding the congregational meeting has been emailed, and will also be available in hard copy on Sunday 20th May.

Main items for the congregational meeting:
• Presentation of 2017 audited accounts
• Report from Pastor Reid
• Report on Facilities Redevelopment

Young Adults – Jumbo Games
Sunday 20th May, 2 - 5:30pm in the Church Hall & Cafe
Cost: $2 (snacks provided, bring coins for hot drinks)
Come and mingle with young adults while playing against your opponents on a Gigantic level!
For young adults 18+
For more information talk to Elsa Matthias & Tara Rogers

Youth – Save the dates
Youth Night – Games in the gym
Friday 15th June
Combined with Golden Grove Lutheran Youth

Metro CLW
School years 7-9:  9th to 13th July
School years 10-12: July 16th to 20th July

More information on both of these coming soon!

Cancer Council
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea
Please join the church and school communities for morning tea in the church café area
Friday 1st June at 9.15am, after chapel
Monetary donation towards the Cancer Council appreciated
For further information, please contact Tina Pfeiffer 0409 690 070

Good Shepherd Lutheran Women’s Fellowship
Our members look forward to your company at our annual fundraising luncheon on Tuesday 5th June, 2018 at 12 noon here at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.  Your spouse, partner or friend is also welcome.  Come along and hear Pastor Reid and his wife Christine entertain us.  Reid is the writer of “The Little Church on the Prairie” in the Lutheran Magazine.  There will be a trading table and door prizes.  Lunch $15  RSVP Friday 18th May to Ragna Gaard 7325 8016 or Dorothy Buscomb 0403 967 943. Limited seats available.

From the Office

Entertainment Books
Discover thousands of valuable 2-for-1 and offers up to 50% off for many of the best restaurants, cafés, arts, attractions, hotels, travel, shopping and much more. 

Like to see before you buy?  Click here:  https://www.entertainmentbook.com.au/about/flickbook/adelaide

The Entertainment Book of vouchers cost $70, with Digital Membership for Apple or Android devices also available.  A percentage from each sale benefits Good Shepherd Lutheran School fundraising projects.

Orders may be placed online at https://www.entertainmentbook.com.au/orderbooks/161r565 or in cash at the school office.  For further information, please contact Sharon on 8264 7966

Available facilities
The new play group facilitators have done a wonderful job of sorting and organising the Baby Zone room.  This area and all its resources are available for all groups to use.  All users are asked to return the room to the condition they have found it, and to return all craft items back to the storage areas once finished.  We request that children be supervised in this area at all times.

Café/new area dedication
Let’s celebrate the gifts we have been given in this new area.  We are looking for a team to lead and organise this event.  Please consider if your care group could organise this or personally contributing to assistance by contacting the office with your ideas and skills.

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
Have you ever lived in or visited the Barossa?  How much do you know about it?

Meet the authors of 'Barossa: Federation to the Fifties'  Join local historians and authors Anne Hausler, Angela Heuzenroeder, Everard Leske, Donald Ross, and Geoff Saegenschnitter for a lively presentation of their comprehensive and authoritative account of early 20th century Barossa.  Come along to the Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting on Monday May 21st, Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place in the City, 7.30pm.  The books will be available for sale at $35, but please pay with the exact cash.  Gold coin donation & supper.  All welcome.

Plant Stall
Our popular plant stall will be held on 3rd June after both services.  This is an opportunity to support the valuable work of the Family Zone Hub at Ingle Farm.  Lutheran Community Care have established this centre and it's right on our doorstep, so we are keen to encourage their work with families in need.

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.

“After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”

Acts 4:31

Encountering Jesus at Home

What is it that you want most for your children?  If you don’t have children, ask yourself this, what are my hopes for the next generation of humanity?

Most people answer this question with answers like these:
- I want my children to live with financial security, free of war and poverty.
- I want my children to be able to determine their own path and live in freedom.
- I want my child to be successful in whatever they choose to do.
- I want my kids to feel safe and loved.

These are great goals, and as parents we often spend a lot of time, energy and resources creating an environment for our children that helps them to achieve these kinds of ideals.

But do we place the same value on helping our children encounter and have a living and loving relationship with Jesus?

Let’s take a minute to look at how helping our children encounter Jesus at home addresses our more human concerns for our kids.

Jesus says to us that we do not need to worry about food or clothes (Matt 6:31-33) because God knows that we need them and when we seek after him and his kingdom, he will provide what we need.  A life with Jesus is a life which is provided for.

He also said that those who hold to his teachings will know the truth and the truth would set them free (John 8:31-32).  A life with Jesus is a life of freedom.

In Philippians 4:12-13, we are reminded that we can do all things through Christ, who gives us strength.  A life with Jesus is a life of confidence.

Jesus tells us again how he loves us in John 15:9-13. “As the father has loved me, so I have loved you…I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete…greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”  A life with Jesus is a life filled with joy, hope and love.

We work so hard to provide, money and shelter, experiences and opportunities for our children so they may have a ‘good’ life.  But what kind of life do they have if we do not help them to encounter Jesus at home.  Our time and effort should be spent primarily helping them encounter Jesus as the one who offers real and lasting hope, security, life, and love.  If it is not, then maybe we need to check our priorities.

Join us this Sunday as we look at some mothers from the New Testament who did that, and learn from them how we can help each other, and our children, encounter Jesus in our homes today.

Blessings,
Vicar Mat von Stanke.

Bible Reading: 2 Timothy 1:1-7
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.

Mothers’ Day Stall
Did you forget Mothers Day is this Sunday?  Don’t stress!  After BOTH services there will be an opportunity to purchase a last minute gift for Mum or Grandma.  Proceeds go to the school and Maranatha Health.

Congregation and School AGM’s
The AGM’s of the congregation and school will be held on Sunday 27th May at 12:30pm.  The Maranatha Team will provide a soup lunch after the second service.  Information regarding the congregational meeting will be available in hard copy on Sunday May 20th and emailed to members early in the following week.

Main items for the congregational meeting:
• Presentation of 2017 audited accounts
• Report from Pastor Reid
• Report on Facilities Redevelopment

Good Shepherd Lutheran Women’s Fellowship
Our members look forward to your company at our annual fundraising luncheon on Tuesday 5th June, 2018 at 12 noon here at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.  Your spouse/partner/friend is also welcome.  Come along and hear Pastor Reid and his wife Christine entertain us.  Reid is the writer of “The Little Church on the Prairie” in the Lutheran Magazine.  There will be a trading table and door prizes.  Lunch $15  RSVP Friday 18th May to Ragna Gaard 7325 8016 or Dorothy Buscomb 0403 967 943. Limited seats available.

From the Office

Office Closure
The church office will be closed on Wednesday 16th May as staff are attending a retreat.

Available facilities
The new play group facilitators have done a wonderful job of sorting and organising the Baby Zone room.  This area and all its resources are available for all groups to use.  All users are asked to return the room to the condition they have found it, and to return all the craft items back to the storage areas once finished.  We request that children be supervised in this area at all times.

Assistance still required
Several weeks ago an email was sent requesting assistance to relay a small section of the parquetry flooring in the hall.  This is required so we can get the hall floor treated.  So far there have been no offers of assistance.  Help could be as little as 1 hour. If you can assist please contact John Dolling 8367 5296.

Café/new area dedication
Let’s celebrate the gifts we have been given in this new area.  We are looking for a team to lead and organise this event.  Please consider if your care group could organise this or personally contributing to assistance by contacting the office with your ideas and skills.

LCA Standing Committee
The LCA’s Standing Committee on Nominations is inviting all eligible congregational members to consider serving on a LCA Board, Council, Commission or Committee in the next Synodical term.  Please refer to the LCA nominations web-site: www.lca.org.au/nominations for information and to access the nominations form. Please note: Nominations must be submitted to the Standing Committee on Nominations by 15 May 2018.

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
Have you ever lived in or visited the Barossa?  How much do you know about it?

Meet the authors of 'Barossa: Federation to the Fifties'  Join local historians and authors Anne Hausler, Angela Heuzenroeder, Everard Leske, Donald Ross, and Geoff Saegenschnitter for a lively presentation of their comprehensive and authoritative account of early 20th century Barossa.  Come along to the Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting on Monday May 21st, Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place in the City, 7.30pm.  The books will be available for sale at $35, but please pay with the exact cash.  Gold coin donation & supper.  All welcome.

Plant Stall
Our popular plant stall will be held on June 3rd after both services.  This is an opportunity to support the valuable work of the Family Zone Hub at Ingle Farm.  Lutheran Community Care have established this centre and it's right on our doorstep, so we are keen to encourage their work with families in need.

LCC Op Shop
Did you know Lutheran Community Care have opened a new Op Shop in our area?  It's at the Pauls Drive shopping centre in Valley View and is worth a visit.  You never know what bargains you might find!

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.

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.  Impress them on your children.  Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Jesus Gives Fresh Starts

Have you ever made promises to God that you’ve broken big time?  Have you ever messed up so badly that you wondered whether God could ever smile on you again?

With a belly full of roast lamb and red wine among friends, Peter was big on promising to give up his life for Jesus.  Unfortunately, when the pressure and heat were turned up, Peter’s courage evaporated.  By dawn the following morning, Peter had thrice denied knowing Jesus – and then the cock crowed!

One of the gospel accounts says that Peter went out and wept bitterly.  He was a broken man haunted by his failures, perhaps wondering whether he’d disqualified himself from ever doing life with Jesus again.

Yet we are told that Jesus appeared to Peter on the same day as his resurrection from the dead (Luke 24:34, 1 Corinthians 15:3-5).  We don’t know what was said.  But I can imagine Peter apologising – and Jesus reconciling.

In the closing section of John’s gospel account, Jesus has words with Peter – not angry words, but wise words of pastoral care that bring restoration to Peter’s soul, and a recommissioning for ministry.

This Sunday we’ll hear Peter’s own story of what happened, and how it impacted him.  What Jesus did for Peter, he wants to do for every one of us.  Thank God that Jesus gives us fresh starts.

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Reading: John 21:15-25
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

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

From the Office

Office Closure
The church office will be closed on Monday 7th May as staff are attending a conference.

Available facilities
The new play group facilitators have done a wonderful job of sorting and organising the Baby Zone room.  This area and all its resources are available for all groups to use.  All users are asked to return the room to the condition they have found it, and to return all the craft items back to the storage areas once finished.  We request that children be supervised in this area at all times.

Hymn books/Red Supplement
As mentioned last week there are surplus hymn books and supplements available for any member who would like a copy.  These are by the piano in the hall. If you want a copy/ies please take them.  This is your last opportunity to acquire a copy.

There are 20 of both the hymn books and Red Supplement and a supply of bibles in the Usher's cupboard (green cupboard) in the Montague Road entrance. They are available to be used as required. We ask that after use they are returned to the cupboard.

Assistance still required
Several weeks ago an email was sent requesting assistance to relay a small section of the parquetry flooring in the hall.  This is required so we can get the hall floor treated.  So far there have been no offers of assistance.  Help could be as little as 1 hour. If you can assist please contact John Dolling 8367 5296.

Coffee machine
The coffee machine is available to use at any time by any person or groups wishing to use it.  Instructions for the machine are located along side.  If you are experiencing any difficulties with the machine please contact the office.

Café/new area dedication
Let’s celebrate the gifts we have been given in this new area.  We are looking for a team to lead and organise this event.  Please consider if your care group could organise this or personally contributing to assisting by contacting the office with your ideas and skills.

LCA Standing Committee
The LCA’s Standing Committee on Nominations is inviting all eligible congregational members to consider serving on a LCA Board, Council, Commission or Committee in the next Synodical term.  Please refer to the LCA nominations web-site: www.lca.org.au/nominations for information and to access the nominations form. Please note: Nominations must be submitted to the Standing Committee on Nominations by 15 May 2018.

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
Have you ever lived in or visited the Barossa?  How much do you know about it?

Meet the authors of 'Barossa: Federation to the Fifties'  Join local historians and authors Anne Hausler, Angela Heuzenroeder, Everard Leske, Donald Ross, and Geoff Saegenschnitter for a lively presentation of their comprehensive and authoritative account of early 20th century Barossa.  Come along to the Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting on Monday May 21st, Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place in the City, 7.30pm.  The books will be available for sale at $35, but please pay with the exact cash.  Gold coin donation & supper.  All welcome.

Plant Stall
ADVANCE NOTICE!!  We will be running our popular Plant Stall once again in early June to support the valuable work of Lutheran Community Care through their Family Zone Hub in Ingle Farm.  If you are a gardener who has spare cuttings or plants, you could pot up now and then donate. We would love to hear from you!  Please contact Sonia: bshulme@gmail.com

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.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.  The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

2 Corinthians 5:17

Gone Fishing

I am not the world’s greatest fisherman, but even so, I can see a definite problem with the disciple’s fishing technique at the end of the book of John.

Jesus said, ‘Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you’ll find some.”

There is a direct implication in Jesus’ statement as he stands one hundred metres from them on the shoreline, perhaps wading in the dim morning light, that all seven of the disciples in the Gospel narrative are casting their nets on the same side of the boat.  I don’t know much about how they fished two thousand years ago; I’m sure there was lots of hard sweat and labour from rowing to ‘the olde fishing hole,’ throwing the net out and hauling it back in wet.  But certainly it seems if they were really serious about catching fish, they’d diversify their technique.

Imagine throwing your net in the same spot all night long and after catching none on the first few throws continuing into the early morning just because that’s where you have always caught fish.

For the last hundred years, or so, the contemporary Christian church has been throwing out its nets fishing in the same spot and in the same way.  Imagining that if we simply have better music during worship, or making people feel more comfortable, or even have more inclusive programming for all ages, somehow the people who are on the margins of the boat will swim into the net and we’ll just haul them in.

But to change fishing techniques and locations is a very difficult proposition, but Jesus gives the disciples a seemingly simple directive. 

Change where you are fishing and the method in which you do it.

What do these words mean for Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in the 21st Century?  How do we cast our nets into different waters?  How do we live into our mission statement, Reaching into the community with the Gospel that all may know Jesus and worship him?  

This week, begin to jump in heart and soul to rush to the risen Christ as he feeds us and then sends us out to feed others.

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Reading: John 21:1-14
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.

Ladies Fellowship
Meeting on Tuesday 1st May @ 1pm
Bible study:  Pastor Reid
There will be a trading table on the day

From the Office
Available facilities
The new play group facilitators have done a wonderful job of sorting and organising the Baby Zone room.  This area and all its resources are available for all groups to use.  All users are asked to return the room to the condition they have found it, and to return all the craft items back to the storage areas once finished.  We request that children be supervised in this area at all times.

New old chairs
13 of our existing chairs were the worst for wear - badly stained or damaged upholstery. These have been re-covered. We also had a donation of an additional 21 linking chairs. These have been re-covered and are now in the Worship Centre. They are in the recently extended section of the church.  This takes the seating capacity to 421.

Hymn books/ Red Supplement
We have over 60 old hymn books and the same number of the Red Supplement. We have contacted both the LCA and SA District offices to ascertain if they could identify any congregations or organizations who could make use of these and unfortunately they could not help us. If you know of anyone who can make use of these books please contact the church office. These are in 2 boxes near the piano in the hall. They will be there until Sunday May 6th after which they will be disposed of. Please feel free to take copies if you wish.

There are 20 of both the hymn books and Red Supplement and a supply of bibles in the Usher's cupboard (green cupboard) in the Montague Road entrance. They are available to be used as required. We ask that after use they are returned to the cupboard.

Assistance still required
Several weeks ago an email was sent requesting assistance to relay a small section of the parquetry flooring in the hall. This is required so we can get the hall floor treated. So far there have been no offers of assistance. Help could be as little as 1 hour. If you can assist please contact John Dolling 8367 5296.

Coffee machine
The coffee machine is available to use at any time by any person or groups wishing to use it.   Instructions for the machine are located along side.  If you are experiencing any difficulties with the machine please contact the office.

Café/new area dedication
Let’s celebrate the gifts we have been given in this new area.  We are looking for a team to lead and organise this event.  Please consider if your care group could organise this or personally contributing to assisting by contacting the office with your ideas and skills.

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
Plant Stall
ADVANCE NOTICE!!  We will be running our popular Plant Stall once again in early June to support the valuable work of Lutheran Community Care through their Family Zone Hub in Ingle Farm.  If you are a gardener who has spare cuttings or plants, you could pot up now and then donate. We would love to hear from you!  Please contact Sonia: bshulme@gmail.com

Maranatha Health News
Maranatha Health is turning 10!
From an aspiring and idealistic dream ten years ago, the life-bringing work of Maranatha Health has become a thriving, effective reality in West Uganda.  You’ve shared in this journey though prayer, encouragement, and financial support. We’d love you to join us to celebrate this achievement at the Maranatha Health 10thAnniversary Gala Dinner.

Maranatha Health is thriving in its service of care to people in Fort Portal, Uganda.  Our Children's Clinic is constantly at capacity, the SA designed shipping-container theatre in regular use, and our community health advisors building relationships, capacity and wellbeing in their villages.

Gala Dinner

Saturday 5th May 2018

6.45pm for a 7pm start

Festival Functions Centre, 292 Findon Rd, Findon

Enjoy a three course meal (including Ethiopian flavours), entertainment, silent auction, wine pull and all the latest updates and plans from our work in Fort Portal, Uganda.

Reservations can be made for tables of 10 for $100 per guest, or individuals for $110 per guest. Please RSVP by 27th April 2018: www.trybooking.com/SUBZ.

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.

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline”

2 Timothy 1:7

Stacks of Eyewitnesses

Lots of people encountered the risen Jesus.  We’ve looked at a few of these over recent Sundays, and we’ll look at some more in the weeks ahead.

This Sunday we’ll look at 2 common objections to Jesus’ resurrection:
1. The followers of Jesus made it all up!
2. Perhaps all their encounters with Jesus were hallucinations?

And then we will drill down into the earliest Christian Creed – that was already established as a fixed oral tradition by the mid-30’s AD.  Here it is:

For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance:
that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,
that he was buried,
that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,
and that he appeared to Cephas,
and then to the Twelve. (1 Corinthians 15:3-5 NIV)

We know from this that the death and resurrection of Jesus were NOT made up years after the events, but part of the Apostles’ witness and proclamation from the very beginning.

Paul then mentions a stack more eye-witnesses – including a crowd of 500 people; Jesus’ half-brother James who was not previously a disciple; and a former persecutor of Christians: Saul/Paul.  They obviously experienced something life changing.

Jesus’ resurrection cannot be easily dismissed.  Ancient historian, Dr John Dickson, writes that we ‘have just the sort of evidence a resurrection would leave behind: an empty tomb and numerous eyewitnesses, several of whom died for the claim.  This is why historians take the resurrection story more seriously than many of us realise.  They agree that something very strange happened – that there is a resurrection-shaped dent in the historical record.’
[John Dickson, Life of Jesus – Who He Is and Why He Matters, (Zondervan: 2010), 162.]

I am convinced Jesus has conquered death.  His pledge to share eternal life with us matters more than anything else in this world – for it spells HOPE for humanity …and a future for you and me!

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-14
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.

We pray for God’s peace for Rochelle Denton and her family on the recent passing of her brother-in-law.

From the Office
We are looking for people who are willing to be trained to serve at Good Shepherd in a number of areas at both Sunday services.

Particularly we are looking for people to fill the roles of:

1. Serving Holy Communion
2. Preparation of Communion before the service begins
3. Cleaning & pack up of Communion when the service concludes
4. Worship Hosting
You can specify how frequently you'd like to be rostered.
People of all ages are welcome.
Full training will be provided for anyone interested.

Please contact Belinda Konrad on 8263 5087
belinda.konrad@paravista.org.au

Parenting room completed
Due to the Parenting Room being full during special services, the Board made the decision to expand it.  The entire cost of this project was funded through a very generous donation.  A special thank you to Ian Pfeiffer who coordinated the project, using his extensive building knowledge to complete the project successfully.  He was ably assisted by a team of volunteers who put in many hours.  Hopefully this expanded space will assist us in achieving our mission.

Coffee machine
The coffee machine is available to use at any time by any person or groups wishing to use it.   Instructions for the machine are located along side.  If you are experiencing any difficulties with the machine please contact the office.

Dishwasher instructions
Please be aware the instructions for the dishwasher have changed slightly. They are located on the wall behind you when looking at the machine. Please ensure the dishwasher is turned off after use via the yellow on/off button on the machine.  The isolating switch is no longer required to be turned off. 

Café/new area dedication
Let’s celebrate the gifts we have been given in this new area.  We are looking for a team to lead and organise this event.  Please consider if your care group could organise this or personally contributing to assisting by contacting the office with your ideas and skills.

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
Alfred Traeger - Could we ever forget him and his marvellous inventions of the pedal radio and a morse typewriter keyboard?  Dr Pauline Payne, historical consultant, will tell us more about this remarkable man at the next Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting on Monday 23rd April, Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place in the City 7.30 pm.  Supper and gold coin donation.  All welcome.

Plant Stall
ADVANCE NOTICE!!  We will be running our popular Plant Stall once again in early June to support the valuable work of Lutheran Community Care through their Family Zone Hub in Ingle Farm.  If you are a gardener who has spare cuttings or plants, you could pot up now and then donate. We would love to hear from you!  Please contact Sonia: bshulme@gmail.com

Maranatha Health News
Chocolatiers urgently needed for Maranatha Health
Do you have a flair for chocolate making, and a bit of time to support Maranatha Health?  The Maranatha Health Gala Dinner is only a few weeks away.  We have a wonderful volunteer who has begun making chocolates for all our guests.  Unfortunately she has developed double pneumonia and is not able to complete them. The moulds and the chocolate are provided, but we don't have the skills!  If you can help please contact Keren or Liesl at contact@maranathahealth.org or 0416 044 658, or at church.

Maranatha Health is turning 10!
From an aspiring and idealistic dream ten years ago, the life-bringing work of Maranatha Health has become a thriving, effective reality in West Uganda.  You’ve shared in this journey though prayer, encouragement, and financial support. We’d love you to join us to celebrate this achievement at the Maranatha Health 10thAnniversary Gala Dinner.

Maranatha Health is thriving in its service of care to people in Fort Portal, Uganda.  Our Children's Clinic is constantly at capacity, the SA designed shipping-container theatre in regular use, and our community health advisors building relationships, capacity and wellbeing in their villages.

Gala Dinner

Saturday 5th May 2018

6.45pm for a 7pm start

Festival Functions Centre, 292 Findon Rd, Findon

Enjoy a three course meal (including Ethiopian flavours), entertainment, silent auction, wine pull and all the latest updates and plans from our work in Fort Portal, Uganda.

Reservations can be made for tables of 10 for $100 per guest, or individuals for $110 per guest. Please RSVP by 25th April 2018: www.trybooking.com/SUBZ.

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.

“Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”

John 20:30-31

Undercover Jesus

Have you ever seen that TV show, “Undercover Boss”?  The premise is pretty simple.  CEO’s of large corporations or national retail and restaurant chains get a costume and make-up team to put them in disguise and they go to work at the coal face of their business, alongside the everyday workers that they employ.

Because people don’t expect to see the national head of their company working alongside them, getting their hands dirty, the often bizarre looking makeovers usually work.  As a result, the workers often share details of their lives and unknowingly and openly discuss their grievances or frustrations with the company and its operating procedures.  Things they would never dream of complaining about to their boss.  Sometimes it causes conflict, but more often than not, the boss is touched by the personal stories of their employees and is impressed by their dedication and insights into the company.  They also reward the workers for their efforts, bringing a renewed joy to those who in many cases have invested the majority of their working life in the company.

In Luke’s gospel, we hear the account of two of Jesus’ disciples walking to Emmaus when Jesus meets them on the road.  The strange thing is they do not recognise him. This has some interesting side effects.  They openly communicate to Jesus their confusion and frustration that their expectations of Jesus had not been met.

But Jesus comes right alongside them, joining them on their journey in their pain and confusion.

Jesus doesn’t get all indignant with the two disciples for their lack of understanding and faith.  Instead he walks with them in their grief and piece by piece reveals to them the reality of the resurrection, rekindling in their hearts a fire of hope and joy.

Join us this Sunday to hear more of how these two disciples encountered an ‘undercover’ Jesus, and how we still encounter Jesus today.

Vicar Mat von Stanke

Bible Reading: Luke 24:13-35
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
Jurgen and Marienne extend a warm welcome to all who wish to join with them to celebrate their wedding day at 3pm on Saturday 14th April at Influencers Church, 57 Darley Road, Paradise.

We praise God for Hannah Rose Bates daughter of Alisa and Daniel who will be baptised into God’s family this Sunday.

We thank and praise God for the wedding last weekend of Tayla and Tennyson Jaensch.

Wanted!
For Novo camp next week:-
-leftover wool from any projects - any ply, length or colour.
-anyone who would be willing to loan some knitting needles for the weekend - for beginners so preferably longer and thicker.
Please drop into the church office or pass on to Elsa Matthias.

From the Office

We are looking for people who are willing to be trained to serve at Good Shepherd in a number of areas at the 8.45am and/or the 10.30am services.

Particularly we are looking for people to fill the roles of:

1. Serving Holy Communion
2. Preparation of Communion before the service begins
3. Cleaning & pack up of Communion when the service concludes
4. Worship Hosting

You can specify how frequently you'd like to be rostered.
People of all ages are welcome.
Full training will be provided for anyone interested.

Please contact Belinda Konrad on 08 8263 5087
belinda.konrad@paravista.org.au

Coffee machine
The coffee machine is available to use at any time by any of the groups wishing to use it.   Instructions for the machine are located along side.  If you are experiencing any difficulties with the machine please contact the office.

Dishwasher instructions
Please be aware the instructions for the dishwasher have changed slightly.  Please ensure the dishwasher is turned off after use via the yellow on/off button on the machine.  The isolating switch is no longer required to be turned off due to the height restriction for some.  Instructions for use of the machine are located on the wall behind you when looking at the machine.

Café/new area dedication
Let’s celebrate the gifts we have been given in this new area.  We are looking for a team to lead and organise this event.  Please consider if your care group could organise this or personally contributing to assisting by contacting the office with your ideas and skills.

Finance Report 
Offerings
January – March 2018
Total Offerings – Budget $129,000     Actual $118,750               UNDER $10,250

Budget Summary
January – February 2018
Total Income – Budget $92,180          Actual $83,400               UNDER $8,780
Total Expenses – Budget $87,246       Actual $74,876               UNDER $12,370

Notes since last Board meeting:
• Offerings in March were around $3,500 below budget both in plate and REG.
• Income is below budget due to low Offerings since the beginning of the year.
• Plate offerings are down around $550 a Sunday (8.45 $175; 10.30 $375) compared to 2017 and down around $630 a Sunday compared to first 9 Sundays in 2017.
• Expenses are under budget primarily due to staff expenses as the new position has not yet commenced.

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
Alfred Traeger - Could we ever forget him and his marvellous inventions of the pedal radio and a morse typewriter keyboard?  Dr Pauline Payne, historical consultant, will tell us more about this remarkable man at the next Friends of Lutheran Archives (FoLA) meeting on Monday 23rd April, Bethlehem House, Sudholz Place in the City 7.30 pm.  Supper and gold coin donation.  All welcome.

Plant Stall
ADVANCE NOTICE!!  We will be running our popular Plant Stall once again in early June to support the valuable work of Lutheran Community Care through their Family Zone Hub in Ingle Farm.  If you are a gardener who has spare cuttings or plants you could pot up now and then donate, we would love to hear from you!  Please contact Sonia bshulme@gmail.com

Maranatha Health News
There's big news in the Maranatha Health world.  You can read all about it in the latest newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/dd2337d7f086/big-news-from-maranatha-health

Maranatha Health is turning 10!
From an aspiring and idealistic dream ten years ago, the life-bringing work of Maranatha Health has become a thriving, effective reality in West Uganda.  You’ve shared in this journey though prayer, encouragement, financial support and we’d love you to join us to celebrate this achievement at the Maranatha Health 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner.

Maranatha Health is thriving in its service of care to people in Fort Portal, Uganda.  Our Children's Clinic is constantly at capacity, the SA designed shipping-container theatre in regular use, and our community health advisors building relationships, capacity and wellbeing in their villages.

Gala Dinner

Saturday 5th May 2018

6.45pm for a 7pm start

Festival Functions Centre, 292 Findon Rd, Findon

Enjoy a three course meal (including Ethiopian flavours), entertainment, silent auction, wine pull and all the latest updates and plans from our work in Fort Portal, Uganda.

Reservations can be made for tables of 10 for $100 per guest, or individuals for $110 per guest. Please RSVP by 25th April 2018: www.trybooking.com/SUBZ.

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.

“For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!”

Romans 5:17

Close Encounters with Jesus

Suppose one day a friend says to you: “I know that Jesus lived a long time ago - and died on a cross.  But I’ve always wondered about the claim that he rose again from the dead?  What makes you so certain that it actually happened?”

How would you reply?

The death of Jesus was NOT the last word.  For 40 days after his resurrection, the risen Jesus appeared to various people.  There are at least 11 recorded incidents in our New Testament.

Lots of people encountered the risen Jesus.  During our Easter worship series, we’ll be looking at some of these.  This coming Sunday we’ll consider two of Jesus’ close encounters with his disciples - the second one included Thomas. 

Thomas has been given a raw deal over the last 2000 years.  Whenever a person has trouble believing something, they are labelled: “Doubting Thomas!”

Doubts are not necessarily bad.  Like sex, money, or power, it depends on what we do with our doubts as to whether they end up being harmful or helpful.  Doubt can be helpful when it pushes us to ask questions and go searching for answers.

Christian faith is NOT blind faith.  Rather it is based on Jesus’ words and actions in history that were witnessed, shared with others, and later recorded in our NT documents.

This evidence doesn’t give mathematical proof, such as 1+1=2.  Nor is it like a science experiment that we can repeat in a laboratory.  Past events in history cannot be examined like this.  Rather, as in a court of law, there’s sufficient evidence to bring conviction beyond reasonable shadow of a doubt. 

What is your story of encountering Jesus?

Pastor Rolly Stahl

Bible Reading: John 20:19-31
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.

We pray God’s comfort for the family and friends of Johanna Lentsment who passed away on 27th March.

Praise Point
Jurgen and Marienne extend a warm welcome to all who wish to join with them to celebrate their wedding day at 3pm on Saturday 14th April at Influencers Church, 57 Darley Road, Paradise.

Pastoral Care
The congregation of Good Shepherd is blessed to have excellent staff members who dedicatedly use their time and talents to further the congregation’s ministry in the name of Christ.  One of these staff members, Steve Paech, oversees pastoral care in the Good Shepherd community.

If you would like to contact Steve Paech for pastoral care, his contact details are steve.paech@paravista.org.au or mobile 0410 036 896.

Transform Service Project
As part of our Transform Confirmation program, we have an opportunity to put our faith into action on Sunday the 8th April.  The transform session that Sunday will be at Lutheran Community Care, Ingle Farm, where we will be helping to spread a load of bark around their playground area.  In order to get the job done, we are looking for a few people to help us out by loaning us some wheelbarrows, shovels and rakes.  It would also be helpful if you have a ute or trailer that you could help out with on the day to transport wheelbarrows and tools down there and back.

If you think you may be able to help out, please contact Vicar Mat von Stanke either through the church office or via email mathew.vonstanke@paravista.org.au

From the Office

Serving at Good Shepherd
We are looking for people who are willing to be trained to serve at Good Shepherd in a number of areas at the 8.45am and/or the 10.30am services.

Particularly we are looking for people to fill the roles of:

1. Serving Holy Communion
2. Preparation of Communion before the service begins
3. Cleaning & pack up of Communion when the service concludes
4. Worship Hosting

You can specify how frequently you'd like to be rostered.
People of all ages are welcome.
Full training will be provided for anyone interested.

Please contact Belinda Konrad on 8263 5087
belinda.konrad@paravista.org.au

Chairs needing upholstering
We have been very fortunate to have 21 chairs for the church donated (second hand).  They are a very close match for the existing chairs and can be viewed in the hall.  They need to be recovered.  We are seeking recommendations of a good upholsterer with reasonable rates.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  Please contact John Dolling with details jdolling@bigpond.net.au or 8367 5296.

Parking lot safety – One Way traffic at all times
Remember traffic flow is one way entering from Montague Road and exiting through the rear gate at all times.  Please do not ‘sneak out’ onto Montague Road after hours.  As this is a shared area, speed is restricted to 10KPH.  Some users are not doing the right thing and are leaving themselves open to prosecution.

Notice Board

Op Shop Valley View Grand Opening
Monday 9th April Pauls Drive Shopping Centre, cnr Pauls Drive and Vale Avenue
50% off storewide
Free pancakes from 8am
Free sausage sizzle and face painting 11.30am-1.30pm

Maranatha Health News
There's big news in the Maranatha Health world.  You can read all about it in the latest newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/dd2337d7f086/big-news-from-maranatha-health

Maranatha Health is turning 10!
From an aspiring and idealistic dream ten years ago, the life-bringing work of Maranatha Health has become a thriving, effective reality in West Uganda.  You’ve shared in this journey though prayer, encouragement, financial support and we’d love you to join us to celebrate this achievement at the Maranatha Health 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner.

Maranatha Health is thriving in its service of care to people in Fort Portal, Uganda.  Our Children's Clinic is constantly at capacity, the SA designed shipping-container theatre in regular use, and our community health advisors building relationships, capacity and wellbeing in their villages.

Gala Dinner
Saturday 5th May 2018
6.45pm for a 7pm start
Festival Functions Centre, 292 Findon Rd, Findon

Enjoy a three course meal (including Ethiopian flavours), entertainment, silent auction, wine pull and all the latest updates and plans from our work in Fort Portal, Uganda.

Reservations can be made for tables of 10 for $100 per guest, or individuals for $110 per guest. Please RSVP by 25th April 2018: www.trybooking.com/SUBZ.

Nominations for LCA Standing Committees open
The LCA's Standing Committee on Nominations is inviting all eligible congregational members to consider serving on an LCA board, council, commission or committee in the next synodical term.  Please refer to the LCA nominations web-site: www.lca.org.au/nominations for information and to access the nominations form.  Please note: Nominations must be submitted to the LCA Standing Committee on Nominations by 15th May 2018.

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.

“Thomas said to him, ‘My Lord and my God!’  Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’ ”

John 20:28-29

I Witness

“When (the women) looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away.  As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were overwhelmed.

“Don’t be overwhelmed,” he said.  “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified.  He has risen.  He is not here.”

Mark 16:5,6a

The traditional translation for the word ‘overwhelmed’ is the word ‘alarmed.’  “Don’t be alarmed,” the young man said.  These words take us back to every other time that an angel appears to people and encourages them to have no fear.  But ‘overwhelmed’, I think, is a better translation.  This word is used only four times in the scriptures, all of them in the book of Mark, in these two verses and two others.

Mark 9:15 – Jesus has just been transfigured and he comes down the mountain with his inner circle of disciples.  Maybe the last remnants of the glow are still clinging to him, or maybe it’s the situation occurring at the base of the mountain where the other nine disciples are unable to cast out a demon.  The people saw Jesus; they were overwhelmed and ran to greet him.

Mark 14:33, 34a – And perhaps the most comforting ‘overwhelmed-ness’ was Jesus himself in the Garden of Gethsemane.  He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled.  “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death…”

It’s easy to be overwhelmed in the face of the strangeness of our lives, and especially for these women who had come to mourn, to prepare Jesus’ body for a year of decomposition.  To have his body stolen would logically be overwhelming, but there was no logic for the angel’s words.  Resurrection, logically, doesn’t happen.  When you are dead, you are dead and the thought of staying dead overwhelms all of us.

But what the angel says excavates the stone doors to the tomb of fear.  Three words.

He is risen.

He is no longer in the tomb.  As Peter describes at Pentecost, “But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him!”

So death has no hold over us who have been crucified with him.

Come rejoice.  Alleluia!  He is risen indeed!

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Reading: Mark 16:1-8
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.

Pastoral Care
The congregation of Good Shepherd is blessed to have excellent staff members who dedicatedly use their time and talents to further the congregation’s ministry in the name of Christ.  One of these staff members, Steve Paech, oversees pastoral care in the Good Shepherd community.

If you would like to contact Steve Paech for pastoral care, his contact details are steve.paech@paravista.org.au or mobile 0410 036 896.

Transform service project
As part of our Transform Confirmation program, we have an opportunity to put our faith into action on Sunday the 8th April.  The transform session that Sunday will be at Lutheran Community Care, Ingle Farm, where we will be helping to spread a load of bark around their playground area.  In order to get the job done, we are looking for a few people to help us out by loaning us some wheelbarrows, shovels and rakes.  It would also be helpful if you have a ute or trailer that you could help out with on the day to transport wheelbarrows and tools down there and back.

If you think you may be able to help out, please contact Vicar Mat von Stanke either through the church office or via email mathew.vonstanke@paravista.org.au

NOVO – 2018!
It’s that time of year again to gather together with other high school youth from across South Australia.  NOVO is a four day camp designed to meet NEW people, learn NEW things, try NEW opportunities and enjoy worship and activities.  The theme for this year is Stand which looks at Romans 5:1 “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.”
Register here http://www.blueprintministries.org.au/camps/novo/
There is financial assistance available.
Let’s have a great experience together.

Ladies Fellowship Meeting
3rd April @ 1pm
Bible Study – Pastor Rolly
Come hear Ruby Keller tell her story.

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

From the Office

Assistance required
Please stay for a few minutes after Maundy Thursday and Good Friday 10.30am service to move chairs in preparation for the Sunday Easter Services.

Easter Car parking 
The school oval is available for parking for the Easter services weather permitting.  Members are encouraged to park on the school oval to allow our guests to park in allocated parking spaces.  Please assist by parking to the eastern end of the oval and keeping as close to the fence as possible.

Chairs needing upholstering
We have been very fortunate to have 21 chairs for the church donated (second hand).  They are a very close match for the existing chairs and can be viewed in the hall.  They need to be recovered.  We are seeking recommendations of a good upholsterer with reasonable rates.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  Please contact John Dolling with details jdolling@bigpond.net.au or 83675296.

Parking lot safety – One Way traffic at all times
Remember traffic flow is one way entering from Montague Road and exiting through the rear gate at all times.  Please do not ‘sneak out’ onto Montague Road after hours.  As this is a shared area, speed is restricted to 10KPH.  Some users are not doing the right thing and are leaving themselves open to prosecution.

Notice Board

Maranatha Health News
There's big news in the Maranatha Health world.  You can read all about it in the latest newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/dd2337d7f086/big-news-from-maranatha-health

Maranatha Health is turning 10!
From an aspiring and idealistic dream ten years ago, the life-bringing work of Maranatha Health has become a thriving, effective reality in West Uganda.  You’ve shared in this journey though prayer, encouragement, financial support and we’d love you to join us to celebrate this achievement at the Maranatha Health 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner.

Maranatha Health is thriving in its service of care to people in Fort Portal, Uganda.  Our Children's Clinic is constantly at capacity, the SA designed shipping-container theatre in regular use, and our community health advisors building relationships, capacity and wellbeing in their villages.

Gala Dinner

Saturday 5th May 2018

6.45pm for a 7pm start

Festival Functions Centre, 292 Findon Rd, Findon

Enjoy a three course meal (including Ethiopian flavours), entertainment, silent auction, wine pull and all the latest updates and plans from our work in Fort Portal, Uganda.

Reservations can be made for tables of 10 for $100 per guest, or individuals for $110 per guest. Please RSVP by 25th April 2018: www.trybooking.com/SUBZ.

Nominations for LCA Standing Committees open
The LCA's Standing Committee on Nominations is inviting all eligible congregational members to consider serving on an LCA board, council, commission or committee in the next synodical term.  Please refer to the LCA nominations web-site: www.lca.org.au/nominations for information and to access the nominations form.  Please note: Nominations must be submitted to the LCA Standing Committee on Nominations by 15th May 2018.

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.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

John 3:16

Cross Beams

When is the last time that you yelled out the words, ‘Save me?’

For some, those words, whether audible, or the silent scream of the soul in the midst of the darkness of life, are a last lifeline.  All people have moments like this, maybe even lifetimes like this.

All of us.

The people of Israel had been crying out for centuries, this word ‘Hosanna!’ – the Hebrew word for ‘Save us!’  In II Samuel, there is petition for the king from a ‘wise woman’ of Tekoa who seeks restoration and salvation with the word ‘Hosanna!’  Various Psalms speak of the petitioner crying out to God for salvation from oppression, enemies, hunger and thirst.  So, we come to Palm Sunday where the entire assembly gathered in front of Jesus, who is riding a colt (not a warhorse), petitioning this Gentle Healer to save them from the ever present oppressive Roman enemy who robs them of every dignity they imagined they deserved.

“Hosanna!  Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!  Blessed is the coming kingdom of our Father David!  Hosanna in the highest heaven!” (Mark 11:9b-10)

Every year we speak about palm branches and cloaks and donkeys and maybe we even quibble over what the word ‘hosanna’ means, but do we recognise the true salvation that comes from the one who rides the donkey?  Are we just here for a show, or do we truly believe that this man can save us from our Great Oppressor – Satan and the sin that so easily entangles us?

Do you want a showman or a Saviour?

Jesus replies nothing to the crowd.  His only message is non-verbal: simply the fact that he is riding a donkey which implies that this is not a general recruiting his army.  He gives no pep talk or pre-battle speech.  Jesus steadies himself on the back of the donkey slicing between a mob of people that seemingly have misunderstood the salvation that he was bringing.

Salvation from their sins so that they could be reconnected again with the Father in heaven.

Read the scriptures again this week and find the nuances of this ‘hosanna.’  Locate yourself in relation to God and how that word can erupt from your own mouth this week, and as we walk toward the cross on Good Friday, we encounter the hosanna in the shape of a cross and the emptiness of an open tomb three days later.

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Reading: Mark 11:1-11
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Praise Point
We thank God for the safe arrival of Hannah Rose, daughter of Alisa and Daniel Bates.

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.

Spotlight
The congregation of Good Shepherd is blessed to have excellent staff members who dedicatedly use their time and talents to further the congregation’s ministry in the name of Christ.  One of these staff members, Steve Paech, is currently looking at all the ways that the members of Good Shepherd use their own gifts and talents in the service of Pastoral Care.

Some of us recognise what is meant by the term ‘Pastoral Care,’ but this weekend for the Spotlight on Ministry, Steve will explain what the title means to him, and share with us some of the exciting things happening in this staff role.

These include working with teams for Pastoral Care, working with small groups in assisting in Pastoral Care, Prayer teams, Meet N Eat, volunteering and, in the broadest sense, welcoming the stranger.

We are looking forward to hearing Steve’s thoughts for the future.

Transform service project
As part of our Transform Confirmation program, we have an opportunity to put our faith into action on Sunday the 8th April.  The transform session that Sunday will be at Lutheran Community Care, Ingle Farm, where we will be helping to spread a load of bark around their playground area.  In order to get the job done, we are looking for a few people to help us out by loaning us some wheelbarrows, shovels and rakes.  It would also be helpful if you have a ute or trailer that you could help out with on the day to transport wheelbarrows and tools down there and back.

If you think you may be able to help out, please contact Vicar Mat von Stanke either through the church office or via email mathew.vonstanke@paravista.org.au

NOVO – 2018!
It’s that time of year again to gather together with other high school youth from across South Australia.  NOVO is a four day camp designed to meet NEW people, learn NEW things, try NEW opportunities and enjoy worship and activities.  The theme for this year is Stand which looks at Romans 5:1 “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.”
Register here http://www.blueprintministries.org.au/camps/novo/ 
There is financial assistance available. 
Let’s have a great experience together.

Ladies Fellowship Meeting
3rd April @ 1pm
Bible Study – Pastor Rolly
Come hear Ruby Keller tell her story.

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

30 Days of Prayer
Is underway… and is being held at church 7.30-8.30pm every day except Sundays during March.  Everyone is encouraged to come along to at least one night to pray as a community.

From the Office

Assistance required
Please stay for a few minutes after Maundy Thursday service to move chairs in preparation for the Good Friday Service.

Assistance will again be required on Easter Saturday morning at 9am to replace the chairs.  Please mark your connect card with your availability for either day - or advise Stephen.

Easter Car parking
The school oval will be available for parking for the Easter services weather permitting.  Members are encouraged to park on the school oval to allow our guests to park in allocated parking spaces.  Please assist by parking to the eastern end of the oval and keeping as close to the fence as possible.

Regular Electronic Giving (REG)
www.lll.org.au/REG
REG is a way for our members to regularly support the work of our church.  Details of transactions are kept totally confidential. None of your personal details are given to the congregation or treasurer. The treasurer is only advised of the total amount credited to the account for the month. For those who are altering their giving through REG or wish to start giving via REG the appropriate forms are available from the information rack at the rear of the auditorium or via this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg  use account number 52752S1, BSB 704942

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

Parking lot safety – One Way traffic at all times
Remember traffic flow is one way entering from Montague Road and exiting through the rear gate at all times.  Please do not ‘sneak out’ onto Montague Road after hours.  As this is a shared area, speed is restricted to 10KPH.  Some users are not doing the right thing and are leaving themselves open to prosecution.

Help Wanted
For the next few months, an elderly lady living at Gilles Plains would like transport to the 8:45am service and then home again.  Ideally it would be good if we could have offers of help to do this on a roster system, unless there is an individual who wishes to volunteer weekly.  Contact Lyn Hancock on 0403 375 474 or the church office for more information.

Notice Board

Maranatha Health News
There's big news in the Maranatha Health world. You can read all about it in the latest newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/dd2337d7f086/big-news-from-maranatha-health

Maranatha Health is turning 10!
From an aspiring and idealistic dream ten years ago, the life-bringing work of Maranatha Health has become a thriving, effective reality in West Uganda. You’ve shared in this journey though prayer, encouragement, financial support and we’d love you to join us to celebrate this achievement at the Maranatha Health 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner.

Maranatha Health is thriving in its service of care to people in Fort Portal, Uganda. Our Children's Clinic is constantly at capacity, the SA designed shipping-container theatre in regular use, and our community health advisors building relationships, capacity and wellbeing in their villages.

Gala Dinner
Saturday 5th May 2018
6.45pm for a 7pm start
Festival Functions Centre, 292 Findon Rd, Findon

Enjoy a three course meal (including Ethiopian flavours), entertainment, silent auction, wine pull and all the latest updates and plans from our work in Fort Portal, Uganda. 

Reservations can be made for tables of 10 for $100 per guest, or individuals for $110 per guest. Please RSVP by 25th April 2018 www.trybooking.com/SUBZ.

Nominations for LCA Standing Committees open
The LCA's Standing Committee on Nominations is inviting all eligible congregational members to consider serving on an LCA board, council, commission or committee in the next synodical term. Please refer to the LCA nominations web-site: www.lca.org.au/nominations  for information and to access the nominations form. Please note: Nominations must be submitted to the LCA Standing Committee on Nominations by 15th May 2018.

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/
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“They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the king of Israel!"”

John 12:13