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Midweek News

Posted 2 May 2007, 8:28 PM by Wendy Hammond. Permalink

Sunday

9am: As Paul prays for the young Colossian church, he wants them to be able to manage all the threats that will come their way. And there will be plenty of them. The sort of things they dealt with are way different to what we have to deal with.

But guess what: the basic cause and the ultimate solution have not changed. What will surprise us most of all is that Paul knows what he says will really help people deal with an ugly and hostile world. Can you believe that?

Read ahead at Co 1:9-14

5pm: People who met Jesus. That's great... for those people. I mean, sure, if I met Jesus my faith would be a lot stronger and I'd have something solid to cling to. If he'd worked a miracle in my presence I'd never doubt again!

Have you ever thought like this?

Sure, let's study the life of Jesus, but what about us? We've never met Jesus in person. Nobody's met Jesus for 2,000 years... So, let's have a look at a man who didn't meet Jesus. A Gentile. A Roman Centurion. The last guy you'd expect to have 'amazing faith'. And through this little story, we'll learn more about the power of Jesus to change lives and bring about the unexpected.

STUDY TOUR - 2007 - UNITED KINGDOM


London, Birmingham, Sheffield

Focus: Churches that are active in Community Engagement and Church Planting

Includes the Total Church - Church Planting Conference

Dates: 18-31 October, 2007

Cost: Approximately $3500


For more information, contact Clinton

Prayer Points

-  Pray for the Church Council as they seek to serve God and his community-this church-with their respective gifts and talents in
a God honouring way.

- Pray for the Property Development Committee as they discuss the various options in preparation for presentation to the congregation and then to council for approval.

Pray for finances-yours and that of the church-that God will provide all that is necessary to serve Him in all we do both at home and in the church.

- Pray for the leaders of the small groups and various ministries in our church, that they may have time to prepare and then serve with a joy that only God can give.

- Pray for those who are unwell or struggling with situations in their lives-whether that is health or relationships-pray that God may be near to them and strengthen and encourage them.

- Pray for the Redlands Community, that they may see the need fora saviour and turn to Him. Pray that the churches in our area may all need to be looking at extending themselves beyond ....

Thank You

Just a big thankyou to all who prayed for my daughter Kylie and the safe arrival of Ashanti, a beautiful girl.

Love Sandie Graham



Children's Ministry Coordinator

Posted 1 May 2007, 2:37 PM by Clinton Berends. Permalink

Redlands CRC

Children’s Ministry Coordinator (Part time)

Redlands Christian Reformed Church is seeking an experienced Children’s Ministry Coordinator to

·         Equip, resource and support our Kids@Church ministry team

·         Extend the vision of children’s ministry at Redlands CRC

·         Develop the Kids@Church curriculum and related policies

 

This is a challenging opportunity for an experienced, dynamic and committed leader of Reformed persuasion. Acceptable qualifications and/or experience in education, effective communication and team building skills, and a positive track record in reformed or evangelical children’s ministry are essential. The position is 2 days per week.

 

For the Job Description and application information, please contact:

Clinton Berends
Redlands Christian Reformed Church
PO Box 2298
Wellington
Point Qld 4160
Australia
clinton@redlandscrc.org.au

07 3826 4700

0424 477 487

 

Applications close: May 15th, 2007

 

 

 



Prayer Chain

Posted 30 April 2007, 11:27 AM by Wendy Hammond. Permalink

Prayer Update: Kylie McQuilty and baby...

Thanks to all those who surrounded Kylie in prayer in Saturday morning! The result was that little Ashanti Kaiva was born, weighing in at 3.03kg (6lb 11oz). Please continue to pray for renewed strength for Kylie and continued health for baby Ashanti. We give thanks to our great God for his merciful answer to prayer!



Prayer Chain

Posted 28 April 2007, 7:29 AM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Please pray for Kylie...

Kylie McQuilty, Sandie Graham's daughter, has been rushed to hospital this morning. Kylie is 10 days overdue to give birth, and the baby was in distress. Last reports were that Kylie was being prepared for emergency Caesarean at Mater Public this morning. Please take a few minutes to pray that mother and child will be kept safe and well, and that the little one will have a safe arrival.

 



Midweek News

Posted 25 April 2007, 6:56 PM by Wendy Hammond. Permalink

Sunday

9am: When we say something is 'a bit ordinary' we're generally saying it's not desirable, and even a bit second rate. Truth be told, we can often feel that way about our faith, right? Yep. Especially when we compare ourselves with spiritual Ken & Barbie across the way... Is it possible to move from 'ordinary' to 'extra-ordinary'? The Christians in Paul's day wrestled with similar tensions. How could they attain the spiritual level that others seemed to have achieved? What was this fullness they heard people speaking about? How could they get it? Paul's letter to the Colossians is a challenging response to such questions. It is an incredibly relevant message for Christians today. Read ahead at Colossians 1:1-8

Here's a suggestion:

1. Start reading the Colossian letter. Try to do this every week while Dave is preaching through it.

2. As you read, ask God to open your mind to what he is saying in this letter.

3. Get a good commentary to deepen your understanding. I strongly recommend Richard Lucas' volume in the Bible Speaks Today series, and N T Wright's work in the Tyndale series (both should be readily available through your local Christian bookstore).

4. Discuss/share what you are learning with friends, family, workmates, school buddies, etc. If you want sermon related study/discussion questions for your small group I would be prepared to make that happen.

Feel free to give feedback to me dave@redlandscrc.org.au

5pm: We are all looking for freedom. Maybe from an addiction, maybe from a relationship, maybe from the grind of everyday life. But none of us are looking for freedom like the man with a Legion of demons in Luke 8. His life was bound, and being destroyed. He needed freedom. But its into his life that Jesus steps - and a battle of power ensues. Jesus vs. the powers of darkness. Jesus vs. the powers that bind lives. Sunday night, we will explore Luke 8:26-39 and see when Jesus meets people, freedom soon follows.



Midweek News

Posted 19 April 2007, 11:37 AM by Wendy Hammond. Permalink

Sunday

9am: Third petition of the Lord's Prayer - Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
The focus is on 'obedience', it's one thing to pray that the Lord's will may be done on this earth, but it's another things to actually do it. So we're committing ourselves when we pray this petition.
We ought also develop more and more a Christian mindset, so that as a Christian community we will increasingly learn to think and evaluate 'Christianly'.

5pm: "What has been the biggest life changing experience for you?Getting married, having children, going overseas?

The testimony of the New Testament is that the biggest life changing experience we can have, is to meet, or be met by, Jesus. No one meets Jesus and leaves the same. And so over the next 5 weeks we are going to be looking at some of the people in Luke who met Jesus, and what they experienced and how Jesus is calling us and meeting us the same today. This week we look at Luke 5:27-32"



R U Moving?

Posted 18 April 2007, 11:46 AM by Clinton Berends. Permalink

Are you making the move from the 9am to the 5pm service?

 

If so, then we are here to help make that transition as smooth as possible.

 

Its probable that you might have a few questions like:

how to do this?

when to do this?

what to do about ministries and rosters that you are involved in as part of the AM service?

 

If this is you, then please contact Clinton (0424 477 487, clinton@redlandscrc.org.au )

 

If you are making that move, and don’t have any questions, then feel free to make the switch as soon as you like.



5pm service

Posted 17 April 2007, 10:31 AM by Clinton Berends. Permalink

For those who call, or are starting to call, the Sunday 5pm service ‘home’…

 

We are seeking to give this service its own feel and flavor over the coming months. Part of that is to create its own ministries to take care of some of the needs for the service. This is where you come in.

 

If you call this service home, we would love for you to help make this service a ‘home’ for others. Please consider becoming part of the following ministries.

 

Welcoming Ministry (Greeters / Welcome Desk / etc)

Contact Rebecca Cooper, bec_speed_demon@hotmail.com, 0402 744 792

 

Crèc he Ministry (Must have a Blue Card if you are over 18 – we can help you get one)

Contact Rachel Bell-Booth, happybb_86@hotmail.com, 0409 276 520

 

5PM K@C (Kid’s Ministry for those in year prep – 7)

Contact Clinton Berends, clinton@redlandscrc.org.au , 0424 477 487

 

For any other inquiries about the 5pm service, please feel free to contact Clinton or Dave.

 



Taking the next step

Posted 17 April 2007, 9:18 AM by Clinton Berends. Permalink

Taking the Next Step – Preparing for Profession of Faith, Baptism and Membership

 

This 7 week discussion on the basics of the Christian Faith begins next Wednesday night (25th April), 7.30pm @ the church

 

If you would like to be a part of this or would like more information please contact Clinton, 0424 477 487, clinton@redlandscrc.org.au

 

 

 

 



Prayer Chain Update

Posted 14 April 2007, 5:44 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

In your prayers...

Please remember Anne White, and children Nicole, Rebecca and William. Anne's husband, Bill, passed away this morning in the Mater Public Hospital. Bill had suffered a stroke some weeks ago, and his condition had deteriorated over the last few days.

Bill's funeral will be held at the Mt Thompson Crematorium (West Chapel) on Thursday at 11:00am

Please support the family in prayer, and ask that God in his grace will give all they need in this time of bereavement. Our hope as followers of Jesus, in not in what is seen, but in what is unseen: the promises of eternal life in Jesus Christ, guaranteed by his death on the Cross and his rising again from the tomb.

...The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil 4:4-7

And for tomorrow...

10+3



20twenty is back!

Posted 12 April 2007, 10:31 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

In case you missed it, 2006 was the inaugural 20twenty inter-church cricket competition. It makes it's return for version two in less than 3 weeks! Make sure you don't miss it this year...

Why cricket? Why not! It's the perfect way to make some friends within the church or to introduce your friends to people at church. RCRC's sport ministry is all about leading people to Christ and what better way of doing it than cricket! Please think about joining, but don't delay because almost everyone from last year wants to go around again (important note - ALL of the people from the team who don't know Christ have returned for 2007).

Details?
When
- Saturday 1pm-4pm
Where - All games in Cleveland
How Long - 10 Weeks
Ages - EVERY age above 15 (RCRC is an all ages team)
Cost - $5.50 per game (that's a $1.50 saving from 2006)
Gear? - Great if you have some, if not, don't stress
Who are RCRC thrashing this year? Same local churches as last year, but this year there are two new additions: Gateway Baptist & Victoria Point Baptist

We'd love for you to be involved, and there's plenty of ways that you can this year!
Player - Be quick
Umpire - Part of all the action without the energy (don't worry we're not playing for sheep stations - except when we're playing the Uniting boys)
Canteen - The off field action is ramping up this year. Want to sell the drinks and sausages?
Support - Come and cheer us on. Bring the kids. And follow the results - we'll put them on the screen each Sunday like last year...
Prayer - COME ONE, COME ALL. We're talking about lost souls here!
$ - if you would like to sponsor some shirts. Thanks to Digiart for their 2006 sponsorship!!

All questions please email or see Josh Hemelaar
josh@royalfoods.com.au



Burma Mission Report

Posted 12 April 2007, 10:27 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

From the Team in Burma

[Email received from Frank Thursday night]

The rapport between all team members is fantastic.

Each person has been so focused on their tasks, and the kids are loving our being here. We have morning and tea times set on the agenda, but we yet to have one, as the kids just keep wanting to work through.

Steve Flood has got some awesome drum beats coming out from his corner of the yard. And if you can't hear Steve, then you can't miss the noise coming from Cor's group. They are busy cutting and planing, drilling and screwing timber into some wonderful tables and benches. Cor's team were originally supposed to make up 10 table and bench sets, but that job has more than doubled.

The church donations have been used to pay for the timber, tools and extras.

The timber is bought by the tonne, and the first lot of 1.8 tonne cost over $800 The craft groups are just having an absolute ball. These kids just love being creative, and are grabbing these once a year opportunities with both hands. Nat and Rowena who have the largest group have got the kids spell bound.

Alette, who is teaching recorder, is getting some of the squeaks to start sounding like a rhythmic melody. We look forward to seeing their performance at the end of the week.

Beverley has a group of seamstresses working away on making their own skirts.

Her sign language is getting pretty good, because the translator in her group doesn't know too much English.

And as for Dr Maria, she is setting records. So far she has been able to analyse 100 children. She is very impressed with the general health of the children. It shows that the leaders are doing their best to look after the well being of the children. She has found a few bugs that need immediate attention, but we'll be more specific about at a later stage.

Janette, Minandi and Nancy are teaching cross stick, card making and jewellery. The results of their fantastic work will be seen when we come back. I'm sure there will be plenty for you to buy. Again, the children just don't want to stop when its time for a break.

Ryan is having a ball in the room set up like an office. He has 8 PCs running and seeing the concentration on the children's face is just beautiful. They are just so thankful to have the chance to play with modern technology.

Olive, our 75 year old faithful from Victoria (it's her 13th trip), is just doing her magic with the small children, reading stories, singing songs, and craft work.

And finally, Shelley is doing a wonderful job teaching those who are interested how to cut and manage hair. She has fitted into the group so well. Please continue to pray for her.

We thank you all for your prayers, and support.

Frank and the Team.



eNews Update

Posted 11 April 2007, 8:20 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Sunday AM

Jesus called Thomas to 'stop doubting and believe...' - but what is faith, really? Is it grounded in my emotions? My intellect? My will? If faith is about 'feeling' does the 'right side of the brain' (the analytical 'let's see if this stacks up' part of the brain) ever have to be used? How can we call people to faith, praying that they will have faith, and be fuzzy on this? The po-mo's might even ask 'what does it matter?' ...well, does it? Read ahead at 2 Cor 5:1-5 and Heb 11.

Sunday PM

No one doubts the trouble humanity is in, and no one needs to be convinced about the general spiritual state of human beings. But how does God respond to people like that? People like us? Read ahead at Eph 2:1-10

Yep: It's official...

Dave & Leonie are thrilled to announce the engagement of Catherine to Dan Kroon. Dan proposed to his beloved on the Great Ocean Road (Victoria) on Tuesday morning. Catherine has gladly accepted. Cath & Dan are not setting dates just yet, but just celebrating and rejoicing in this new direction together. We wish them every blessing!

Clinton is on leave...

Clinton, Tracy and family are enjoying some time off this week with Clinton's family. Next week it's Dave's turn. He will be on leave from the 16th to the 22nd.

Thanks again:

To all the Redlands CRC people who volunteered their time at the Redlands Easter Family Festival: thanks so much! The day was a great success, and it was a thrill to see the high level of RCRC involvement. Special thanks to Doug Kiltscher, who coordinated RCRC's volunteers, as well as giving many nights to the REFF Executive. Well done! You have been a real blessing!

The Bridge...

Lots of people walked over the bridge last Sunday morning. If you'd like to share what crossing the bridge meant to you, I'd love to hear your story - everything received in confidence, of course. Send your note to dave@redlandscrc.org.au

Prayer:

  • Remember those who are working in schools: this week they are having some time off - well deserved no doubt. We're thankful to God for the ongoing contribution made by teachers, Admin and adjunct staff. Rest well, friends, you are a blessing to us!

Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au

10+3



Children's Ministry Coordinator

Posted 7 April 2007, 7:48 AM by Clinton Berends. Permalink

Redlands CRC

Children’s Ministry Coordinator (Part time)

Redlands Christian Reformed Church is seeking an experienced Children’s Ministry Coordinator to

·         Equip, resource and support our Kids@Church ministry team

·         Extend the vision of children’s ministry at Redlands CRC

·         Develop the Kids@Church curriculum and related policies

 

This is a challenging opportunity for an experienced, dynamic and committed leader of Reformed persuasion. Acceptable qualifications and/or experience in education, effective communication and team building skills, and a positive track record in reformed or evangelical children’s ministry are essential. The position is 2 days per week.

 

For the Job Description and application information, please contact:

Clinton Berends
Redlands Christian Reformed Church
PO Box 2298
Wellington
Point Qld 4160
Australia
clinton@redlandscrc.org.au

07 3826 4700

0424 477 487

 

Applications close: May 15th, 2007

 

 

 



Easter

Posted 6 April 2007, 7:26 PM by Wendy Hammond. Permalink

Easter Sunday

9am: We've had some high powered messages calling for big commitment in recent weeks - what about the strugglers? The battlers? The people who do not see the tunnel, let alone light at the end of it? What about people plagued by doubt? Or people so riven with pain and struggle they wonder what they have to do to get God's attention? Then let's think of Thomas (all everyone else who has ever doubted/struggled. Let's look at the way the risen Jesus gently addresses his doubt, and draws him into true life. The resurrection appearance to Thomas is a powerful reminder that Jesus is the God of 'those who missed out'. God is remarkably patient. He wants to lead us to faith, to hope and to transformation. He can, and usually does, take a lifetime to do his work, but he wants us to begin with one step. One step of faith in Christ will begin the journey of hope. Today he calls you to reach out and take a step of faith - cross the bridge, and in His grace, strength and to His glory, have a new beginning in Jesus.

6:30pm: Redlands Easter Festival Combined Churches Service - At the Cleveland Showgrounds. Please join us in celebrating our risen LORD together.

Monday

Redlands Easter Festival - Join in for a FREE day of food, rides, entertainment and celebration at the Cleveland showgrounds.



Missed Last Night's Meeting?

Posted 4 April 2007, 2:49 PM by Clinton Berends. Permalink

So you missed last night’s meeting and you really wanted to be there…

 

You can still be kept in the loop with what went on, and what was talked about.

 

For an email with the resources from last night, drop a line to churchplanting@redlands crc.org.au

 

 



Able Bodied Men Required...

Posted 4 April 2007, 11:59 AM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Can you help set up the Easter Festival?

We do not have enough Christians (men of faith) to

1} move gym equipment on Thursday afternoon or

2} putting up and pulling down on Monday.

As much as we want to help our brother in Christ, Tony, we do this for God.

Whilst we all have faith, we must also be practical and must all put our hands to the plough. We are not asking you to commit to a full day but for a few blocks of time on the day.

If you can help even for a short time please contact Tony Willis on 0401 268 990 or freehire@bigpond.net.au ASAP.

"We do unto God not unto man"

Yours In Faith

Easter Festival President

Deborah Wagner



Solomon Islands Update

Posted 3 April 2007, 2:04 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Just in from Honiara...

Solomon Islands has again hit the world headlines, for less than pleasant reasons. A series of earthquakes struck the country on Monday morning, with the centre of the quakes being in Western Province. We (Kevin & Machi) were in Western Province at the time, though still some distance from where the damage was the worst. Even so, we experienced the quakes that started at about 7:20 in the morning and continued for over two hours with a fair degree of severity. It was reported that during the day, a total of about 19 quakes were recorded ranging from about 5 on the Richter Scale up to 8.1.

Reports about damage and fatalities have been flying around, but because of the remoteness, accurate reports are not available for all areas yet. Gizo, the capital of Western Province, has been the hardest hit, with significant damage being done to many of the commercial buildings along the waterfront. Many villages were also affected by the tsunami that resulted from the earthquakes, and many houses have been washed away into the sea around Gizo, Simbo Island, and Choiseul Province. Villages in further away Mono and Shortlands also were affected. The Tsunami did reach Honiara, but it was down to about 10 centimetres when it finally arrived, and caused no damage here.

Even so, the town was almost deserted during the morning, and all shipping had gone into deeper water.

Reports indicate that about 20 people have lost their lives. Among them was a dear friend of ours, Rev Rollinson Zapo, the United Church Bishop, who was based in Gizo. He died when a beam in the house fell on him during the earthquake. Please remember his wife Janet and their family in your prayers.

Relief efforts are starting to get underway, with shelter and food being transported to Western Province. Not only were houses destroyed, but many gardens also, so food and fresh water are essential priorities.

On Tuesday afternoon, there is a meeting of NGO's to see how their efforts can be coordinated, and Machi is attending on behalf of our mission. Thank you again for the many prayers that are ascending to the throne for our still troubled nation, as well as for us personally.

Kevin & Machi Rietveld

CRCA Missionarys

SWIM Base, Honiara

swim@solomon.com.sb

 



Prayer Chain Update

Posted 3 April 2007, 7:40 AM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Easter Prayer Vigil - Easter Festival       

Merna Gray is looking for a couple of volunteers for the Easter Prayer vigil in the lead up the Monday's Easter Festival at the showground.

You can join other people from the churches in Redlands by coming to the prayer vigil from 1am-2am or 4am-5am this Saturday morning. This is one for the really early risers or the night owls - please contact Merna direct at gm_ministries@bigpond.com or (07) 3286-1771

Your world

  • We've been reminded to pray for Zimbabwe: for some at RCRC this is their homeland, yet it seems so ruptured with political strife and racial unrest. Please pray for peace, for justice, and safety for all in that beautiful country
  • People have also been asking about the Solomons. I spoke with Machi Rietveld earlier today. She said while the earthquakes have been a little scary, there is no damage to the base. The Tsunami had no real impact in Honiara, with its centre being one of the islands to the west. There are reports that one bishop of the United Church died while seeking to help people in that area. The SWIM base team are thankful for your continued prayer and support. You can email them direct at swim@solomon.com.sb

 



Prayer Chain Update

Posted 2 April 2007, 9:42 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Mark Nugent

We have just received word that Mark's surgery was successful - God is good! Margaret and Cameron report that he was already asking for food in the recovery ward! Good signs! Mark will probably be in hospital (Wesley) until the end of the week.

Thanks for your prayers: please continue to pray for his recovery!

 



More Updates

Posted 30 March 2007, 9:41 PM by Wendy Hammond. Permalink

Prayer

Please pray for Lucy Watson.  She has had a anapylaxic fit this morning and is currently at the Redlands Hospital for treatment.

Pray for Helen and Damien, the treating doctors and for Lucy, that God may bring healing and recovery.

GT Team drivers

Are you licensed to drive?
Do you have spare seats in your car?
Are you willing to be part of the GT (Gods Taxi) team assisting people to attend church who otherwise couldn't normally regularly attend?

If you answered 'yes' to these questions then we'd love to hear from you. We are looking for people, who on there way to church, could pick up people in their spare seats. If you'd like to be part of this team or need more info please email greg.keegan@gmail.com



Come to Breakfast tomorrow! (8am)

Posted 30 March 2007, 10:24 AM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Hi church!

This is a reminder that we're all coming to breakfast at Redlands CRC tomorrow morning.

The breakfast will start at 8am, but you can come a little earlier if you like, as we won't all be able to stand around the "Special K' dispenser at the same time!

We're planning to begin the speaking program at 8:15, and we'll work through the following items:

  • General Introduction
  • Sunday Service attendance issues
  • Children's Worker
  • Church Planting
  • Church Council
  • Building Developments

The aim of this meeting is to involve the Redlands CRC family in various developments. Some of these are ongoing, and this will be the first of a number of meetings for this year. This sort of discussion and consultation is especially important with regard to building and other developments.

Further, we will be seeking to make a decision by secret ballot with regard to the appointment of a children's worker.

Currently, there is no budget allocation in this current financial year for this position, consequently, we will be asking the congregation to embrace the mission and ministry of Kids@church by warmly and generously supporting this move in their giving as well as their vote.

The plan is that we are done by 10am, or earlier.

Feedback: or in indicate your financial support for the Children Ministry Worker, you can reply to dave@redlandscrc.org.au All financial commitments will be treated with confidentiality, and passed immediately to the treasurer. Alternatively, you can email the treasurer Eddie Bos direct at treasurer@redlandscrc.org.au

10+3



Day 41...

Posted 29 March 2007, 2:48 PM by Clinton Berends. Permalink

Well, today we have come to the end of our 40 Days of Community journey. However you might feel about that, the question has to be asked, ‘Where to from here?’

 

The benefit of the 40 Days journey is not really in what it gets us doing and thinking about for just the 40 Days – but the ‘habits’ that it instills in us that we take with us into the rest of our lives. Here are a few of those things that I want to encourage you to make an on going part of your life.

 

1)     The practice of regular devotions

 

For some, the idea of a daily time reading / studying and praying was pretty new during the 40 Days. Maybe it was the first time you were able to keep up (or almost anyway) that sort of regular time. I want to encourage you to build this into your weekly and daily timetable. If you are looking for somewhere to start, start reading through Mark in your Bible. If you are looking for a devotional guide, talk to your Small Group and see what they can recommend. Or else feel free to email 40days@redlandscrc.org.au

 

2)     The practice of weekly church and Small Group attendance

 

Life is busy, and there are lots of things that compete for time and attention. I want to encourage you to take church and Small Group attendance out of that ‘competing’ realm, and place it as an essential practice for yourself and your family. We need that time to build relationships within the church. We need that to connect with God and reflect through the service. We need that time to be feed and nourished by God’s Word. Other people need your presence and encouragement. That’s the way God designed his body. You are an integral part of the church.

 

3)     The practice of serving in ministry and mission

 

We are not encouraged to give our lives away in service today. We are taught to stand up for ourselves and be independent. But they way of Jesus and the way of the Jesus community is different. It is the way of giving up our lives, in order to keep them. It’s the way of becoming the least, and serving others, both inside and around the community of faith. I encourage you to make service, in the church, and in the wider community, a regular part of your life. Maybe you can do that in an organized way, through a ministry role in the church, maybe its something that you do in an unstructured way, as you meet the needs of people around you. But serving is never to be a ‘project’ it is a way of life.

 

4)     The practice of community

 

Really, this is what all the other 3 are a part of. The great message of this journey is that we are not meant to consider ourselves individuals, but a community first. Jesus does not just call and save individuals, he calls and saves a people. Our identity, our lives, can not be understand apart from the community God has placed us it. So live that. Be connected. Love others, let others love you. Be thankful and protective of God’s family.

 

 

We want to hear from you:

 

We would love to put together a collection of stories, encouragements from the 40 Days journey. If you have something you would like to share, something that excited you, challenged you, stunned you, then we want to share that with others as an encouragement to them. It brings honor to God when we tell good stories about what he has done.

 

Please email them to 40days@redlandscrc.org.au

 

 

 

 



Midweek News

Posted 28 March 2007, 8:16 PM by Wendy Hammond. Permalink

Saturday - Come to Breakfast @ RCRC:
March 31st, 8.00 am

The entire congregation is invited to attend a (continental) breakfast . The topics for discussion will be:
�� Part Time Children's Worker
�� Taking pressure off the 9am Church Service
�� Restructure of Leadership
Other Issues:
�� Church Planting update
�� Building developments

So please come! We would like maximum involvement in these discussions: God leads us together into an understanding of
His will. You can send us any thoughts before then if you like: dave@redlandscrc.org.au

This Sunday - 9am & 5pm

We have been challenged with a lot over the last 40 Days.

We have been challenged to greater love, obedience, service, mission, worship, fellowship. And just because the 40 Days of Community is over, doesn't mean that these things now stop. In fact, now they really begin. So what sustains us for that long journey, what keeps us going? God has given us something very special in Revelation 21 and 22 for just that, he has given us a glimpse of eternity. In this glimpse he is saying, it is worth it, it is so worth it. Keep pressing on.

RCRC YAK (Chilli)

What: Car Hunt
When: 31st March 7pm
Where: Redlands Christian Reformed Church

Caring for our Church Building

Just a reminder from the Committee of Management regarding a few things around the building to make it all run smoothly.

The blue auditorium chairs must not be removed from the auditorium - eg. Outside or upstairs.
If the blue auditorium chairs have been stacked for any reason, there is a seating plan at the sound desk to reposition them (so we get correct spacing between rows - for the comfort of everyone.)
Each group using the building throughout the week could they make sure everything is back in order and that the carpet is clean - if needing to use the vacuum cleaner it is in the cupboard in the Hall.

Thank you for your cooperation - C.O.M

 



eNews Update

Posted 26 March 2007, 9:52 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

"FOODBANK re-opens at RCRC"

...well, it never really closed, but it does need a re-start. We are re-opening the Foodbank: there is a new box in the foyer to receive your donations. All non perishable items can be left for collection. Greater quantities of smaller individually wrapped items are preferred above larger packages. All 'deposits' will be distributed through Redlands Community Centre to needy people in our community. For all enquiries please speak to Bev Bird (07) 3286 5087, bird41@bigpond.com

Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you [Mk 6:38]



Church Planting

Posted 26 March 2007, 5:49 PM by Clinton Berends. Permalink

Why Plant Churches?

 

When Jesus issued us the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) he instructed us not just to “make disciples” but also to “baptize” and “teach them.” Clearly, he intended for every new follower of Jesus to be incorporated into a church, the local body of Christ. The only way that this happens is if our churches grow larger and/or new churches are planted.

 

When Paul undertook his missionary work around the known world, he started a program of church planting. He went to the largest city in an area or region, he preached the gospel there, and from that preaching a church began. Paul would then continue on to other cities and regions to do this again, but the church that he left behind would continue to preach the gospel in their city, and in the surrounding countryside, and as people came to faith, more and more new churches were planted.

 

Because there were no church buildings in the early church, the largest facility to hold a ‘gathering’ of the church was the family home. This limited the size of each church. Church planting was therefore both necessary, and effective in making new disciples.

 

Research shows that church planting is one of the most effective (or possibly the most single effective) method of reaching new people. Church plants tend to reach groups of people that existing churches struggle to meet. Groups such as young adults, new residents and new social groups. And it makes sense.

 

Each church develops, over time, its own flavor and style. While a church must work hard to be inclusive of new people, rather than exclusive, it can’t help having its own distinct style and flavor. It is always going to find it harder to reach people who are different, in age, culture, background, etc. This is where new church plants are of advantage in kingdom work. They more readily accommodate and disciple those who are new and different.

 

Studies also show that new churches are more effective in reaching completely un-churched people. A new church will gain 60-80% of its growth from those who do not currently attend a church, while a church that is over 15 years old will gain over 70% of its growth from those transferring their membership from other churches. Church planting is an effective means of evangelism.

 

We, at RCRC, are committed to the kingdom of God and the gospel of Jesus, in our area. We are not about growing a big church, but about seeing people come to faith in Jesus. While we will continually seek to see new converts come to faith through the people and ministries of RCRC, we also recognize that a part of this kingdom work is to plant new churches. Its about being responsible with the things that God has given us.

 

Next week, on Tuesday night (3rd April) we will be having our first Church Planting Exploration Team (CPET) meeting, 7.30 @ the church. Through this time we will continue to explore issues that relate to church planting, and where God is leading us as a church. If you are interested in learning more, we would love to see you then. For more information email churchplanting@redlands crc.org.au

 

 



Prayer Chain Update

Posted 24 March 2007, 4:47 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Anne White's husband, Bill, is currently in the Mater Public hospital having suffered a stroke earlier this week. He also seems to be battling some kind of infection. Anne has been told by the medical people that Bill may require further care and may not be able to return home.

Please keep Anne, Bill and the family in prayer. We know the uncertainty of life, but we also know the certainty of God's promises to be close to us and never let us go.

And tomorrow...

10+3

 



Midweek News

Posted 22 March 2007, 1:38 PM by Wendy Hammond. Permalink

This Sunday

We read Malachi and we ask ourselves: "How did things get that bad?"

The answer is more simple than we think.

It's also a good reason for us to reflect on our own approach to worship. On the other hand, some other examples of worship, e.g. Acts 2:42-47, and Hebrews 10:24-25 allude to worship which is transformational for people and honouring to God.

Here's the question: Can we do anything to ensure that the worship we do together is more God honouring than God distressing?

Car Wash for CARE this Saturday

Come for a couple of hours between 8am to midday.  Money going to C.A.R.E (Community Assist Redlands Enterprises) a not for profit organisation that assists with aged care and families of persons with disabilities.  (You may recall an article on the front page of the Redland Times on March 2 where their office was broken into and computer stolen.) 

Contact Damien Watson on Ph 3829 3468 or e-mail damienwatson@optusnet.com.au for further details.



Prayer Chain Update

Posted 21 March 2007, 3:47 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Hi all,
 
Ben West: Just letting you all know that Ben West has been discharged from Greenslopes Hospital on Wednesday morning. His recovery from the surgery has proceeded well, and we're still awaiting the detail on the pathology results. Please keep Ben, Sharon and family in prayer.
 
Rani Gillan: Rani is making good progress in Greenslopes. While it appears that her bowel blockage is clearing, she still has a way to go.
 
Please continue to pray for these and others you know who are suffering with health issues
 
DG


Prayer Chain Update

Posted 21 March 2007, 2:52 PM by David Groenenboom. Permalink

Hi all,

Ben West: Just letting you all know that Ben West has been discharged from Greenslopes Hospital on Wednesday morning. His recovery from the surgery has proceeded well, and we're still awaiting the detail on the pathology results. Please keep Ben, Sharon and family in prayer.

Rani Gillan: Rani is making good progress in Greenslopes. While it appears that her bowel blockage is clearing, she still has a way to go.

Please continue to pray for these and others you know who are suffering with health issues

DG



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