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Christmas Day 9am
** corrected copy **
Christmas Day is always a high point at RCRC. It presents a great opportunity to tell the message of Jesus and to celebrate the birth of the King of Kings!
It will be great for us all to meet on Christmas morning and praise the Jesus Christ who was born in the manger. Estimates will vary, but best figures would indicate that 80% of Australians will spend their Christmas Day without Jesus.
Here's a thought: Is there a neighbour, a friend, or a family member you could ask along? It could be a great opportunity for them to hear the good news about Jesus!
Can I challenge everyone in the RCRC family to invite two people along who would not normally be in church, so they can share in this great day of praise and celebration.
Please pray that Jesus himself will impact us all as we worship him on Saturday.
"All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel' (which means 'God with us')." (Matthew 1:22-23)
The Christmas Day Service starts at 9:00am
Christmas Day 9am
Christmas Day is always a high point at RCRC. It's presents a great opportunity to tell the message of Jesus and to celebrate the birth of the King of Kings!
Estimates will vary, but best figures would indicate that at least 80% of Australians will spend their Christmas Day with Jesus.
Here's a thought: Is there a neighbour, a friend, or a family member you could ask along? It could be a great opportunity for them to hear the good news about Jesus!
Can I challenge everyone in the RCRC family to invite two or three people along who would not normally be in church, so they can share in this great day of praise and celebration.
Please pray that Jesus himself will impact us all as we worship him on Saturday.
"All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel' (which means 'God with us')." (Matthew 1:22-23)
The Christmas Day Service starts at 9:00am
New Life Orphanage
Hi friends,
The Christmas newsletter from the New Life Orphanage is attached.
Please keep our friends in prayer, asking that they be channels of God's grace, and that God will continue to protect them and care for them.
If you have questions, please contact Eddie Bos
Asking questions on the RCRC website?
From time to time people ask questions and leave them on the website - this is good. Wrestling with big questions is often how we grow, especially when we do that in the light of God's Word.
Our problem as Pastors is that if you don't leave your email address when you ask the question, we cannot really respond. If you do leave some contact details, we can write back to you, maybe share some resources, pray for you and help you through it all.
So, if you've left a question recently, and you'd really like an answer, please email Dave or Clinton, and we'll do what we can.
Positions Vacant: Ministry Administrator
Hi Church,
We're very sad to say that Margaret Nugent has accepted a position with Willow Creek, and therefore will be drawing her time as RCRC's Ministry Administrator to a close. Margaret's last day in the office will be Friday, December 17.
Margaret has made a wonderful contribution to RCRC, and has given consistent leadership and expertise during the course of her appointment. We wish her well in her new position! Willow is a great organisation, and we know she will be a blessing there!
And with that in mind, we present the following notice before you
Positions Vacant:
Expressions of interest are sought for the position of Ministry Administrator (.5 FTE) at Redlands CRC
Position outline:
Maintain and develop database, policies and internal procedures for ministry and congregational health
Specifically assist full time pastors in secretarial tasks
Manage day to day administrative tasks, newsletters, office duties
Personal qualities required
Warm effective interpersonal skills
Supportive, positive, helpful personality
Warmly supportive of all aspects of RCRC ethos, vision and mission
Necessary competencies
Secretarial and administrative skills, familiarity with policies relevant to church environment
High level of competency with MS Office 2007, especially Outlook, Word, Publisher Excel, Access, Windows 7
For further information, please contact Dave.
To apply for this position, please email your application and resume to dave@redlandscrc.org.au before Friday, Dec 24, 2010
Services in January
Throughout January we will continue to hold services at 9AM and 5PM.
For January 2nd and 9th we will have the same sermon in both the AM and PM services, lead by Clinton.
On January 16th we are thankful to both Ryan and Ettiene for leading the services. Both are in the process of completing their theological training and we have been blessed by their preaching ministry before.
From January 23rd both Dave and Clinton will be back on deck.
Sunday - 9AM
It doesn't take a long look at recent world events to see that we continue to live on a planet of turmoil and conflict. It doesn't take a long look at our lives, and the lives of people around us to see that this is not just confined to international relationships. Conflict seems to be a part of every day life. So what do we make of passages of the Bible that speak of peace? Is peace something that we just have to hang for, until Jesus comes again? This Sunday, as we wrap up our Christmas series we will be looking at Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to see what he has done, is doing and will do, to bring peace in our world.
Call to South Barwon
Hi Church,
As most of you know, the Christian Reformed Church of South Barwon (Geelong) has expressed interest in calling myself to serve as pastor there. As a part of that process we have visited with them, meeting with the church, the leadership, various groups, and leading services. Yesterday we were informed that they have extended an official 'call' to come and serve there.
In our system, a 'call' does not mean that you automatically have to go. We believe that we still have a valid 'call' from Redlands CRC and so this process is one where we seek to discern God's will for our lives, and the church. It is not an easy process, and we would greatly appreciate your prayers during this time, as we trust that God's will be done, and his kingdom strengthened, whatever the outcome.
Indorr Carols Tonight
The Indoor Carols are on tonight at 5pm!
Come with the whole family to sing to Jesus' praise! There'll be some items for the children, and we have coffee and donuts afterward!
Some of the rows will be cleared at the front of the auditorium, so if you'd like to sit there with your family, you're welcome to do so.
No candles are permitted. Glow sticks are welcome...
Local family in great need...
Hi church!
Over recent weeks RCRC's deacons have been in contact with a family in our neighbourhood who are really doing it tough. They have had water damage in their home, and are seriously financially strapped. They face the prospect of a very bleak Christmas. They have no money for gifts (nor are they asking for money), and very little in the pantry.
We want to give an opportunity for the church to help, and express the love of Jesus.
Can you help with some donations of food (perishables are OK) for a Christmas hamper, or could you provide a gift or two for the family and children? It's a big family (see below), but God's people are big hearted and gracious - so that should be OK. Here are the details:
Mum & Dad, plus nine children: Boy 16, Boy 15, Boy 14, Girl 14, Boy 12, Boy 9, Girl 7, Girl 10 months
Let's be a blessing, and give this needy family some of God's love! Gifts need to be new, nicely wrapped, and labelled e.g. "Boy 12".
Gifts and/or food for the hamper can be dropped off at RCRC every morning from 9-12 Mon - Thursday.
If you have any questions, please talk with Doug Klitscher 0418 811 603 or Dave Groenenboom dave@redlandscrc.org.au 0418 383 055
"I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing ... all people on earth will be blessed through you" (Genesis 12:2)
Carols Tomorrow Night (Indoors)
Tomorrow (Sunday) at 5pm we'll be having an indoors Carols service. Clinton will be preaching, and there will be some interesting twists... Bring family, and friends to celebrate the Saviour's birth. There'll be coffee and donuts afterwards.
Contact Dave (0418 383 055) if you have questions...
Positions Vacant
Hi Church,
We're very sad to say that Margaret Nugent has accepted a position with Willow Creek, and therefore will be drawing her time as RCRC's Ministry Administrator to a close. Margaret's last day in the office will be tomorrow - Friday, December 17.
Margaret has made a wonderful contribution to RCRC, and has given consistent leadership and expertise during the course of her appointment. We wish her well in her new position! Willow is a great organisation, and we know she will be a blessing there!
With that in mind, we present the following notice before you
Position Vacant:
Expressions of interest are sought for the position of Ministry Administrator (.5 FTE) at Redlands CRC
Position outline:
Maintain and develop database, policies and internal procedures for ministry and congregational health
Specifically assist full time pastors in secretarial tasks
Manage day to day administrative tasks, newsletters, office duties
Personal qualities required
Warm effective interpersonal skills
Supportive, positive, helpful personality
Warmly supportive of all aspects of RCRC ethos, vision and mission
Necessary competencies
Secretarial and administrative skills, familiarity with policies relevant to church environment
High level of competency with MS Office 2007, especially Outlook, Word, Publisher Excel, Access, Windows 7
For further information, please contact Dave (0418 383 055)
To apply for this position, please email your application and resume to dave@redlandscrc.org.au before Friday, Dec 24, 2010
Sunday 5pm
We have all met some parents who like to talk up their kids. You would think, sometimes, that parents actually believe that their child is the next Einstein or Picasso or Wally Lewis, even before they can walk. But in Isaiah 9 we are introduced to the biggest claim ever of a new born child, that he is God. So why would God come as a child, what evidence do we have that Jesus was and is God, and what difference does that make to the way we celebrate Christmas? All this and more...
Bible Reading: Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 10:20-27Preacher: Clinton Berends
Food (& gift) donations: Redland Community Centre
Please, this Sunday, let's fill the foyer with food (non perishables) and perhaps even small gifts that Redland Community Centre can pass on to those in need. When you are shopping, please collect extra items for this worthy ministry.
We are all aware that economic realities are being felt right through our community. Charities like Food Bank are reporting a marked reduction in donations. So let us share the blessing of God with those who need to know his goodness.
Calendar items for 2011
Don't forget if you are planning events for 2011, to book them into our church calendar by emailing office@redlandscrc.org.au Booking forms and Sound Request forms will be sent to you. Church ministry activities receive first priority in the calendar.
Sunday 9am
As we close one year and enter another, we're often thinking about how things will work out in the year to come. In a time of economic uncertainty it's understandable to wonder whether we're on the right track, or wonder how things will work out. Isaiah's words directly address our hearts, assuring us that Jesus is our Wonderful Counsellor. On Sunday we'll be looking at how this plays out. Read ahead at Isaiah 9:1-7
Preacher: Dave Groenenboom
Nowhere to Go on Christmas Day?
For anyone who is on their own, or for those with no family around them, Todd, Wendy, Dave & Leonie would love you to join them for Christmas Dinner. Seriously - we'd love you to come along. We'll be meeting at Todd & Wendy's after the Christmas Day service. If you'd like to join us, please contact Todd & Wendy on tham8298@bigpond.net.au or 3824 8336 or Dave & Leonie on dave@redlandscrc.org.au or 0418 383 055 by Wednesday Dec 22, 8pm
New Elders
With thanks to God Church Council is pleased to advise the congregation that both Kees Moolenschot and Peter Goodridge were resoundingly affirmed as elders in yesterday's ballot. We will advise in due course with regard to ordination date in early 2011.
New Men's Ministry
On Wednesday night (7:30pm) there will be a brief meeting in Dave's office to finalise the shape and focus of the new men's ministry for 2011.
Please come along if you'd like to be part of this formative meeting. Questions? Talk with dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Kids@church
This Sunday is the last Kids@Church for the year. We will be finishing with a bang. We will be performing for the congregation and therefore will need to have the kids there at 8:45, we will then be having a Christmas party. Everyone is welcome, hope to see you all there.
Thanks
It is with very mixed feelings that I am leaving the job here at Redlands. I am looking forward to the challenge of working with Willow Creek, but I have very much enjoyed my time here. I would like to say thanks to all of you who have made my work a pleasure, thanks to all the volunteers who hold everything together, especially Rista, Ingeborg, Eddie and Joyce who work (or have worked) in admin and thanks to the team of Dave, Clinton, Dana, Ettiene as well as Lisa, Lauren and Dan. It has been a privelege to work in such a great environment. I looking forward to continuing to work alongside everyone in volunteer jobs! Marg Nugent
Sunday 9am
In two weeks time we will celebrate Christmas. When we hear the word 'Christmas' many images come to our minds. There's the image of family, of friends, of gifts and certainly the image of the Saviour being born to us. One image, however, that rarely will spring to mind when we hear the word 'Christmas', is the word 'government'. Perhaps the very last thing we want to think about over the festive season is the government! According to the Bible, however, there is a connection between celebrating Christmas and celebrating 'government'. This Sunday we will find out how, by celebrating Christmas, we are celebrating the coming of a Ruler, the coming of a new government who will truly be 'moving Australia forward!'
In your prayers...
- Please remember the Tong family following the sudden death of Leanne's father last week. The funeral was today
- Continue to pray for wisdom and discernment for Clinton & Tracy as they visit the South Barwon (Vic) congregation. Pray that God's church will grow and that Jesus may be lifted up in the outcome
- Please uphold the RCRC leadership as we affirm new Elders (Sunday) and seek a new Ministry Administrator
News from RCRC's Admin Office
Hi Church,
We're very sad to say that Margaret Nugent has accepted a position with Willow Creek, and therefore will be drawing her time as RCRC's Ministry Administrator to a close. Margaret's last day in the office will be Friday, December 17.
Margaret has made a wonderful contribution to RCRC, and has given consistent leadership and expertise during the course of her appointment. Willow is a great organisation, and we know she will be a blessing there, and we wish her well!
With that in mind, we present the following notice before you
Positions Vacant:
Expressions of interest are sought for the position of Ministry Administrator (.5 FTE) at Redlands CRC
Position outline:
- Maintain and develop database, policies and internal procedures for ministry and congregational health
- Specifically assist full time pastors in secretarial tasks
- Manage day to day administrative tasks, newsletters, office duties
Personal qualities required
- Warm effective interpersonal skills
- Supportive, positive, helpful personality
- Warmly supportive of all aspects of RCRC ethos, vision and mission
Necessary competencies
- Secretarial and administrative skills, familiarity with policies relevant to church environment
- High level of competency with MS Office 2007, especially Outlook, Word, Publisher Excel, Access, Windows 7
To apply for this position, please email your application and resume to dave@redlandscrc.org.au before Friday, Dec 24, 2010. If you have questions about this position, please also direct them to Dave.
Sunday 5pm
Why is it that when we talk about giving, we tend to feel either fear or guilt? Why is the subject of giving such hard territory to negotiate? There are probably lots of reasons. Think for a moment: what if we could understand the secret to giving? How is it that some people seem to give, and so freely, selflessly, and quietly - and be so happy about it? How do they do this? Why do they do this? How can we learn from them? Come this Sunday afternoon, and start the journey into guilt free giving. Read ahead: 2 Cor 8:1-7 Reading: 2 Cor 8:1-15 Preacher: Dave Groenenboom
I am keen to tell you about the new men's meeting which will be starting at Redlands CRC in February 2011.
There are important reasons why this is a great step for our church.
1. Men need a place to talk
Men need a place where they can talk with one another about life¸ and build good relationships. Women seem to do this more easily: whether it's over a latte or a chat on the phone, women are way better at talking about family, relationships, struggles and joys. We can call this stuff 'in here' because it comes from the heart. In contrast, when men get together, the discussion revolves around work, or the kids, or the traffic, the government, of the footy. We easily talk about stuff 'out there' and we're not too good at talking about the 'in here' and 'from the heart' stuff. Men need a place where it's OK, and normal, to talk more about the 'in here' stuff.
Photo credit: iStockphtoto: asiseeit
2. Men need to see good communication modelled
I guess we all know how hard it is for men to talk about the 'in here' and 'heart' stuff. The problem is that like old dogs, it's hard to teach grown men new tricks. Especially ones that involve communicating in new ways. This is why this new context for men needs to model how good communication is done. We will do this by giving men the chance to observe men relating in healthy ways. We plan to have some interview style open dialogue between two men who will talk about their story, their interest and their battle. They will be talking about this 'from the heart' and not only from the head. The idea is that as men observe other men in open and engaging conversation, they will be encouraged to do the same. Some group discussion will encourage those present to wrestle through the issues.
3. God wants his church filled with great men!
The Bible has some very clear teaching about men. They are to live and lead in the likeness of Jesus, putting the needs of others above their own (Eph 5:23, see 5:1,2; Phil 2:1-5). Their strength is one which imitates Jesus, and not one which exasperates or seeks to dominate others (Eph 6:4). They are to be men of integrity, grace and humility (see James 3:13; 1 Pet 5:5). When the Bible says this is so clearly, you have to wonder why there are not more contexts where men can encourage each other to live this way.
I'll work through a few more reasons next time, but for now, men, pray that this new venture will be blessed, and make a commitment to be part of it. There's nothing better than brothers getting together in unity (Ps 133).
If you have questions, please contact me
Carols Tonight: Venue Change
Hi Church,
The venue for tonight's Wellington Point Village Carols has changed due to bad weather.
The Carols will now be held in the bar at Hogan's Hotel, Main Rd, Wellington Point.
In the New Testament, we always see Jesus going to where the people are. He was a friend to people on the fringe. Tonight, we will not only be singing his praises, and speaking his Gospel, we will be walking in his footsteps!
We'll be starting at 6:30pm, but you may want to come a little earlier...
See you there!
Holy Ground (Coffee Ministry)
With the help of a generous donor, RCRC has been able to access a commercial grade espresso machine, which received its first workout last weekend.
We are now looking for a number of people who can assist with the use and operation of the machine. We're keen to hear from those who have experience in using a commercial espresso machine. There has to be a few of us here! The more we have, the wider the load is spread, and the easier it all is. And the whole church family will rejoice...
Holy Ground is also a great fundraiser for ministry projects, as well as providing a great cuppa after Sunday services and other ministry events.
If you'd like to assist or express interest, please contact Dave by email or 0418 383 055.
Wellington Point Carols, Tomoorow Night, 6:30pm
Hi church!
Please join us at the Wellington Point Village Carols on Friday Night (Dec 03), from 6:30pm. The Carols will be held in Wellington Point Village, just opposite the newsagent.
This is a great opportunity to celebrate the message of Jesus with our community. RCRC has once again been asked to assist with this, and we're proving some singers and Dave is speaking.
Please bring your own chair, and there is a special prize for the best decorated Christmas Table.
Let's celebrate Jesus' birth with our community!
Kids@nite Sunday 5th December
Please note - There will be NO kids@nite program in this Sunday evening's service as we were unable to find leaders to help.
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