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SURGERY / HOSPITAL UPDATE
We have a number of our church family in hospital or
awaiting surgery that we encourage you to pray
for:
Ben West continues to recover after surgery on
Saturday. The
surgery went very well, being a little less complication than was first
thought. Understandably he is still in some pain and discomfort. He and
Sharon
are awaiting some pathology results in the next couple of days. Ben is
not sure
when he will be home at this stage
Rani Gillan has been readmitted into
hospital
today with further complications from her Crone’s Disease.
Rebecca
Cooper will undergo surgery on
her injured
knee this Thursday. The extent of the surgery will be decided on the day
when they
can see the full extent of the damage.
Please continue to pray for these three, and others
who have
ill health or recovering from illness. Pray that their recovery would be
quick,
the diagnoses received favorable and that the grace of God would sustain
them
through this time.
CHURCH PLANTING
Over the last couple of months (since the purchase of
the neighboring
properties) some people have asked a few questions about Church
Planting. I
thought I would take this opportunity to answer some of
these.
1)
Are we
still going
to plant churches now that we have more property and (eventually) more
space?
The answer to that is basically “yes”, we
are
still going to plant churches. Church planting was never an answer to
our space
problems, but it did arise out of discussions on the future of RCRC.
Church
planting is a ‘gospel’ issue, not a ‘space’
issue.
2)
But
isn’t our
focus on getting RCRC bigger now that we have so much land to take
up?
The goal of RCRC has never been to get bigger. The
goal has
never been to plant churches, either. The goal has always been to see
the work
of the gospel of Jesus make inroads into the
A larger church, as we grow and expand over time, is
going
to be capable of gospel ministry in some ways that RCRC at this current
size,
and any church plant that comes from RCRC, can not do. A larger church
can mean
more ministries, more resources, greater community presence and impact.
A
larger church will reach into our local community in new and exciting
ways.
But by the same token, a church plant is going to be
capable
of gospel ministry in other ways that a larger church, or even RCRC at
its
current size, can not. A church plant that is small, and targeted to
specific
groups within the community is going to reach and envelop people in new
and
exciting ways as well.
As you can see, its not a choice between one and the
other.
The choice is between gospel ministry, or… no gospel ministry. If
we take
the former, we are going to be pushed into both
directions.
3)
Won’t church
planting significantly reduce our size, in both numbers and
resources.
It is true that church planting is going to have
impacts on
many areas of church life. It is going to impact leadership, ministries,
and
also money. But maybe not in the way that we might think, or
expect.
When we talk about church planting we are not
thinking about
splitting the church in half (or even taking away a quarter, or even 50
people)
and putting them in a different location. If we were to do that, the
likelihood
is that we would end up with a church that looks pretty much like RCRC.
And as
much as I love RCRC, we already have one and we don’t need any
more. If
people want to come to an RCRC type church, let them come to
RCRC.
What we are talking about is taking away a smaller,
missionary type, group of people. When we do the work of overseas
mission, we
take very small teams and we plant them into a new culture and they work
with
local people, creating a church of local flavor. It can sometimes look
very
different from the church that the missionaries came from and in fact it
should
look different as it is made up of very different people.. When we are
thinking
of planting church we are thinking about sending out mission teams
–
smaller groups of people, who work hard at mission and evangelism, who
seek to work
with those who come to know Christ and build a church that reflects the
community it lives in. Instead of the church producing evangelism,
evangelism
will produce the church.
A church plant of this nature, especially in its
early
stages, is going to be less of a draw on resources that sending out a
ready
made church with services, rosters and a weekly newsletter already in
place.
Now, of course, this is not going to answer every
question,
but maybe it has aroused some curiosity in church planting and what we
are
looking into for the future. So a reminder of a way in which you
can
scratch that church planting itch, we are having our first Church Planting Exploration Team
meeting
on Tuesday 3rd April,
7.30pm at
the church. Even if you are only curious, or want to know a
little
more, we would love to have you there.
For further comments, or questions, email churchplanting@redlands
crc.org.au
There will be another email next week to talk about
this a
little further.
Ministry Fair Tomorrow
Tomorrow
...is a special day at Redlands CRC! The focus of Clinton's messages will be on ‘serving together'.
After both services, there will be a ‘ministry fair' where the different ministries at Redlands CRC are presented. This will take place in the hall. There'll be plenty of time to chat with people about various ministries and how you can be a part of them.
There will also be ample opportunity to catch up with others: We'll get to share a bite to eat as the sausage sizzlers will be cooking up a treat! You won't want to miss this!
See you tomorrow!
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Midweek News
This Sunday
Ever feel like a cog in a machine? Feel that way at work, in your family, in life? Ever feel that way in the church?
Sometimes we just keep doing stuff, serving, ministering, but we wonder what its all in aid of.
In Ephesians 4, Paul gives us a unique look at our place in the body, in the world and in the plan of Jesus. When we see this, we can never simply consider ourselves a cog in the wheel again. Read ahead in Ephesians 4:7-13
RCRC Ministry Fair - 40 days of Community
Don't miss this great opportunity to learn more about the various ministries that exist at Redlands CRC. Find out how you can help them share the love and word of God in our church, and local community.
Make time to visit the displays.
Where: Redlands CRC (overflow area)
When: Sunday 18th March, directly after both the AM & PM service.
For more information
Please contact Doug Pobjoy.
0411 241 585
dpobjoy@tpg.com.au
Watch Found
A watch was left in Dave's study after Kids@Church on March 04 It has a silver case and a purple floral band. Please contact Ingeborg office@redlandscrc.org.au 3286 4700; 0417 791 097
Prayer Points
- -Please especially remember Ben West, who is having his facial nerve removed on Saturday in an effort to treat cancer in his face. This is a huge operation. Ben will be in Greenslopes Hospital. Please check with Sharon before making any plans to visit (3206-3424). Please also uphold Sharon and the children during this time.
- -Please continue to pray for those recovering from recent illness. We think of Bec Cooper.
- -Also continue to pray for those who have recently had medical diagnosis which means a change in life as they know it. We think of Clinton Berends, Michelle Hudson, Damien Watson, Craig Jewell, Stella Dekker, Albert Verkruissen and any others with long term ailments.
- -Please pray for our elderly, as they come to terms with being able to do a little less and feeling somewhat frail. Pray for patience and understanding for them and their families.
- -Please pray for all those in leadership in the church as they seek to serve our Lord and Saviour to the best of their ability. Pray for a pure heart and a right attitude to do His Will. Also pray that they may draw closer to God, and draw strength from Him to serve in their appointed roles.
Come to Breakfast @ RCRC: Mar 31, 8am
The entire congregation is invited to attend a (continental) breakfast from 8am on March 31. The topics for discussion will be:
- Part Time Children's Worker: Church Council has considered the present needs and stresses on the Kids@Church ministry, and recommends to the congregation that we approve the appointment of a Children's Worker, 2 days per week, to further develop the ministry in terms of
o Development and support of K@C teachers and leaders
o Teacher & helper recruitment, training and resourcing
o Development and responsible implementation of mandated duty of care policies
o Development of curriculum, assisting teachers in preparation of material
Church Council affirms the current K@C leadership for their excellent effort, and believes with them that the ongoing development of K@C ministry has now gone beyond the realm of volunteer ministry. There are 150 children registered, and sometimes over 100 in attendance.
We also point out that there is still a need for further teachers and leaders in K@C, and that any future appointment will not remove these needs, but probably increase them.
We will be asking the congregation to support this move at this meeting with a ballot.
- Taking pressure off the 9AM Church Service: Following the meeting on Feb 25, and the feedback forms collected over two Sundays, the church council believes the best way forward is to encourage a ‘migration' of about 15-20 families to the PM service.
o This will free up space in the AM service, allowing further expansion
o This will also allow for some ongoing discussion about developing increased ownership in the PM service and how the PM service might develop it's own character
o After 40 Days of Community the AM & PM Dave & Clinton will again prepare specific messages for each service
o With regard to moving people from the AM to the PM service, we will need to discuss together
§ Starting date for the changeover (we have observed that some have already started to make the change - thanks for showing great initiative)
§ The nature of a Children's Program to be offered in PM Church
§ Ministry openings for those who seek to be involved
- Restructure of Leadership. Church Council has been in discussion of how we can better support the various ministry areas at RCRC, how we can be more responsible with pastoral care, etc.
These are changes of process, and not changes to our form of church government.
These developments need to take place in a way that does not intensify burden on the current Church Council. We would love to share some of these changes with you and receive your feedback.
- Other issues
o Church Planting update
o Building developments
A more extensive information paper will be made available on Sunday March 25.
So please come!
We want 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:
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Ministry Fair
RCRC Ministry Fair - 40 days of Community
Don't miss this great opportunity to learn more about the various ministries that exist at Redlands CRC. Find out how you can help them share the love and word of God in our church, and local community.
Make time to visit the displays.
Where: Redlands CRC (overflow area)
When: Sunday 18th March, directly after both the AM & PM service.
Join us for a sausage sizzle as well
For more information
Please contact Doug Pobjoy.
0411 241 585
dpobjoy@tpg.com.au
Interested?
Wesley Hospital Medical Trial: Flu Patch
Would you like to be part of an official medical trial of a flu patch?
Are you over 65 years of age?
Jill Griffiths, who comes along to Redlands CRC, has a family member who is part of a research team at the Wesley Hospital.
Some travel and parking expenses will be reimbursed
If you are interested, please call Jill Griffiths on 3822 6296
Mid Week News
Sunday
Most of us have heard Rick Warren say that loving community is the number one factor in churches that grow. That's an attractional quality.
But what else is needed for that community to move toward maturity?
If we really are going to grow together, if the church really is to be the new community it's called to be, what sort of things should we be thinking about. Eph 4 draws us into Kingdom life that really is an expression of new creation. It's a wonderfully attractive picture: read about it in Eph 4:25
Relay for Life:
Are people from your small group interested in being part of the Relay for Life - but you don't have enough to field a team?
Then let's combine.
Send the names of interested people through to dave@redlandscrc.org.au and we'll set up a joint effort. This is what you'll be committing to walking the Relay for Life Track for your designated period of time - teams are responsible to have at least one member of their team walking on the track for the whole 24 hour period. eg. 12 walkers each with a two hour responsibility
Each walker raising $100 in sponsorship
Finding some way to do this as a church: ie. RCRC T-shirts (hey, you can borrow from those who have them...)
...all pretty easy, really, and it could be a load of fun!
Act now - send an email to Dave: we've only got a few days to register
Taking the next step
Preparing for profession of faith, baptism and membership
A 7 week discussion on the basics of the Christian faith and Redlands CRC ‘distinctives'
Begins April 2007.
If interested email clinton@redlandscrc.org.au or phone 0424 477 487
40 Days of Community
The Week Just Gone:
Over the last week I have received a lot of comments from my message last Sunday. These comments have been a real mixture. So I just wanted to add a couple of things.
Firstly, its not a matter of doing more. Many of you are already stretched time wise and commitment wise. Jobs, families, hobbies and ministries. I believe it is a matter of doing things differently. When we talk to people after church, who do we talk to? People like ourselves, just the people we get on with, or people who are different, that we don't know. Instead of inviting 2 families around who we get on well with, and we share much in common with, why not invite some close friends, and some people we might not know so well. This will undoubtedly push us out of our comfort zones, it will go a long was to bringing us towards an enfolding church.
Secondly, while its true that like attracts like, we have a special responsibility to those who are different. Some people have made the comment that we are a white middle / upper class church in a white middle / upper class area, and this is kind of natural. And its true, like will often attract like in church situations. But the gospel calls us to go beyond this, to actually seek, and enfold, those who are different. We do have people who are different from ourselves come through RCRC, let's work extra hard at enfolding them.
The Week To Come:
This week we are looking at purpose #3 we are put together to GROW to maturity. The point will be made that it is impossible for us to grow into the image of Christ without the community around us. We simply can not obey the commands to love, support, nurture, if there is no one to practice these things on.
This is why Small Groups are so important. If we are just relying on a Sunday Service to do these things, we are going to come up short, our growth will be stunted. So I would like to challenge you, if you are not in a Small Group. Are you really growing as you could be growing? What is standing in the way of joining a Small Group?
If you would like to know more about joining a group, I would love to help you get connected.
Clinton
Church Planting Exploration Team
In an exciting, challenging and daunting new phase of RCRC ministry we are going to be looking at the issues of church planting and ways in which we can further the work of the gospel in our area through it. To do this, we are wanting to gather a Church Planting Exploration Team, to begin training in church planting and preparing the whole church for this adventure.
We are looking for people who are interested in:
- Learning more about church planting
- Wanting to help resource and support a church planting team
- Being a part of a church plant from RCRC
If this is you, or you are just curious to see if it might be you, we would love you to come along to our first gathering
Tuesday 3rd April, 7.30pm @ the church.
If you have any questions, or want to register your interest, please speak to Dave or Clinton, or email churchplanting@redlandscrc.org.au
Changes to Sunday Services?
You were asking?
After yesterday’s morning service a few people asked about the slips we filled in about changes to worship services:
· Are we really going to add another service to Sunday morning? What time will it be? What about kids at church? etc.
· If we ask some families to move to the 5pm service, thus opening up more seating at the 9am, will there be a kids program? Etc.
These are important factors, and you can be sure that they will all be addressed in time. Any changes to the way Sunday services are configured really needs to be well developed, supported in a united way, and fully discussed with the church family.
Even so, given the questions asked, we thought a brief email might clear up a few things.
What’s happening is that we are beginning a process of discussion about Sunday services, and this already commenced the week before (Feb 25). An open meeting was held and that meeting was attended mainly by small group leaders, those involved in Sunday ministry, and any others who wanted to attend.
The issue is that our 9am services are generally quite full, and we need to make some space. Our starting point is that there are two unacceptable options:
· To say that we are full, and leave no room for new people
· To do nothing
Church Council has recently discussed the matter of having a second service on a Sunday morning. The Church Council does understand that this would place increased strain on people involved in current ministries: music, technical, children’s ministry, coffee, etc., so it is not a trouble free solution.
Another possibility is to ask some of the families who currently attend the 9am service to attend the 5pm instead. This is not without its complications either. It would involve changes in family schedules, and have some impact on the feel of the 5pm service.
So friends, it’s a difficult one! The small form you may have filled out last Sunday is certainly not the last word. In a sense, it’s just the beginning of our discussion process.
In questions like this the most important this is that we develop solutions together, and that we move ahead together.
So coming Sunday there will be an opportunity for those who have no yet made their preference known to do so. After that we’ll work through all the information we receive, and then come back to you to discuss a final proposal.
Finally, some have wondered why we’re asking people to put their names on the forms they fill in. We’ve asked for this because knowing general preferences is a good thing, but it’s not much help if there’s no commitment to follow through. So we’re asking you to put your name on your form so we can gauge the level of real commitment to each proposal. Remember: we will still come together before moving ahead with anything.
As always, if you have some insight on something that hasn’t been mentioned, or which doesn’t already appear to be part of the picture, please email us! We’d love your feedback!
Every blessing!
Dave Groenenboom
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Car Wash - 24th March
Next Car Wash will be on Saturday 24th March, 8am - 12pm.
Small groups are encouraged to commit to a time slot together as part of 40 Days campaign.
Contact Damien at damienwatson@optusnet.com.au or Ph 3829 34680.
40 Days of Community
40 Days of Community
0 Days to go!
Here we are- we have arrived at the beginning of the 40 Days of Community program! Today is a very exciting day, as it is the first Sunday service for the next 7 weeks based on the 40 Days material; and it is also the first day of devotional readings in the book "Better Together". Don't forget your 3 committments for the next 40 days- attend a service, take part in a Small Group, and serving each other as Christ has served us.
Please continue to pray the program in all its aspects throughout the church, from Kids@Church to Small Groups, from leaders to mission projects, and above all that this will be a blessed time of Spiritual growth and increased love for each other in the church and the community.
eNews Update
Prayer Diary
- Geoff and Kathryn Crawford are rejoicing in the safe arrival of James Stephen, 10:00am on Friday. Although James arrived a little earlier than expected, Kathryn and James are doing fine. They are currently in Mater Private (in the city) [1/27 Anzac Rd, Carina Heights, 4152, 0417 723 659 geoff@doctors.net.uk]
- Clinton has received some good news that only 2 of the 34 lymph nodes removed had any signs of cancer. One was the node that was swollen, and the other had only a trace. We can thank God for his continued care, and we pray that Clinton will recover fully.
- We still are in urgent need of some Kids@Church teachers. Please seriously consider how you can support this great ministry for children.
- Pray for the services tomorrow - that the Lord will be praised as we gather around his word, honour him in worship, and (in the morning) share the Lords Supper together.
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
40 Days of Community
This Sunday will be the beginning of the 40 Days of Community program at Redlands CRC. Not only will Sunday be the first of 7 themed messages, but it will also be the first day of readings from the book, "Better Together". Your Small Group leader will be distributing these books at your group week, so make sure you grab your copy and are ready to start reading on Sunday. Remember there is one chapter to read each day, and each week at your Small Group you will view a short DVD and discuss the readings from the week.
During 40 Days we want to raise the following ‘commitments' to RCRC and its vision and ministry:
- Everyone at one Service a week.
Life can be busy, and often one of the only chances we have to sit still for a while is Sunday. It's a time to renew, recharge and spend with the family. One of the ways we do this is by meeting with our church family. It is a great chance to be feed by God's word, encouraged in song and fellowship and also to be a blessing to others. - Everyone in a Small Group
While Sunday can be a great time of celebration and encouragement it is not the time or place where community is expressed and experienced in its true form. This happens often in the context of Small Groups. It is in Small Groups that we get to know other people, to share life with them, to study God's Word in depth, and to bear one another's burdens. If you are not already in a Small Group, the start of 2007 is the perfect time to join one. - Everyone serving in a Ministry
The body of Christ is just that, a body. In our bodies, everything plays a part, everything is integral. If one part is not functioning, the whole is struggling. The church, as a body, functions the same way. We were designed to all be using our God given gifts for the benefit of others, through loving service. We want to provide everyone with an opportunity to serve others as Christ has served us.
During the 40 Days of Community, whether we have signed up or not, we want to invite you to make the above commitments. Everyone at one service, everyone in a small group, everyone serving. When this is taking place, we are going a long way to belonging to a great Christ centered community.
If you want to learn more about this, please speak to one of the pastors, or your Small Group leader.
Prayer Diary...
Clinton's Surgery Update
Clinton and I were able to speak on the phone earlier today. After his four hour operation yesterday, Clinton was feeling a bit sore and hadn't rested that well overnight. This morning, the surgeon informed Clinton that he was quite happy with what they were able to take away. The swelling in the lymph node was definitely related to the melanoma, and pathology has been ordered to further clarify the situation. Clinton has an appointment with his Oncologist next week Friday and he will know more abut his situation after that.
Dave will be preaching this Sunday while Clinton recovers.
Remember friends, that while there is much about life that we do not understand, and lots that we cannot control, nothing is beyond the loving hand of our Father in heaven. Pray in faith with such an attitude.
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. For this reason, we can even consider trials with an attitude of pure joy (James 1). Our hope can only even be in God, and not our circumstances.
Prayer Diary...
Clinton's Surgery
We just had news that Clinton's surgery was completed at about 2:00pm. Tracy says that he's pretty sore and groggy - no doubt he has a bit of sleeping off to do. Clinton has not spoken with the Doctor following the operation - so there is no detailed news at this time. Hopefully, he will find out more information tomorrow sometime, and following that we may be able to tell you a little more.
Please continue to pray for recovery, and that God's grace of healing, strength, and the peace of His presence will surround Clinton, Tracy and the family.
Other prayer points:
- Rani Gillan continues to receive treatment at Greenslopes Hospital. Please pray for patience, for healing, and for wisdom for her medical team.
- Diny Kapinga is also in Greenslopes Hospital for a few days. Please remember Diny and John in your prayers.
- Ben West will have tests on Sunday to ascertain further treatment needs
Thanks for being a supportive and caring church family!
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
40 Days of Community
Renew your commitments!!
What does it mean to be committed to RCRC? Is it simply a matter of turning up once in a while or having a memberships form?
During 40 Days we want to raise the following ‘commitments' to RCRC and its vision and ministry:
- Everyone at one Service a week.
Life can be busy, and often one of the only chances we have to sit still for a while is Sunday. It's a time to renew, recharge and spend with the family. One of the ways we do this is by meeting with our church family. It is a great chance to be feed by God's word, encouraged in song and fellowship and also to be a blessing to others. - Everyone in a Small Group
While Sunday can be a great time of celebration and encouragement it is not the time or place where community is expressed and experienced in its true form. This happens often in the context of Small Groups. It is in Small Groups that we get to know other people, to share life with them, to study God's Word in depth, and to bear one another's burdens. If you are not already in a Small Group, the start of 2007 is the perfect time to join one. - Everyone serving in a Ministry
The body of Christ is just that, a body. In our bodies, everything plays a part, everything is integral. If one part is not functioning, the whole is struggling. The church, as a body, functions the same way. We were designed to all be using our God given gifts for the benefit of others, through loving service. We want to provide everyone with an opportunity to serve others as Christ has served us.
During the 40 Days of Community, whether we have signed up or not, we want to invite you to make the above commitments. Everyone at one service, everyone in a small group, everyone serving. When this is taking place, we are going a long way to belonging to a great Christ centered community.
If you want to learn more about this, please speak to one of the pastors, or your Small Group leader.
Washing Cars Gets Results!
Thanks Church!
God blessed us richly at the Car Wash this morning! The total raised was $720.00 - which will be great for school chaplaincy work in the area!
Please pray for the Chaplains in local schools, and especially Carlee Spiers as she starts her work at Victoria Point High School, and Peter Gavel, current Chaplain at Ormiston State School.
Not bad, eh! Turning soap suds into the Gospel message for kids in our community!
"Pray that God may open a door for the Gospel message" (See Col 4:3)
For tomorrow...
Remember to be a community builder!
- First 10 minutes: speak to someone you haven't met before
- Pray for someone in the church community
- Invite someone home for a cuppa
- Ask someone to your small group
1 Week to go!!!
40 Days of Community...
Only 1 week to go!
It has been a busy week in preparation for 40 days of Community. Groups have been established, the leaders have got together, people have been praying and mission projects have been arranged. However, there are still some things to bring to your attention.
Sign Up
This Sunday is the last opportunity to sign up. We have a number of groups that are capable of taking more people, and we can always start another group. Even if you have never been in a Small Group before, we would encourage you to take this opportunity. Please sign up after church on Sunday or email 40days@redlandscrc.org.au.
Starting 40 Days of Community
The 40 Days Campaign starts on the 18th February. However, groups will meet in the week before this to get to know each other, distribute the books "Better Together" and to learn more about what the 40 Days is going to involve.
We begin reading the book on the 18th February, and read 1 chapter a day for the next 40 days. There are pages for journalling each day, make use of these to record what God is showing you from his Word and challenging you with. If you get behind a couple of days, amek an effort to catch up. If you get behind by more than 3 days, just skip the chapters you have missed and go back and read them at the end of the 40 days.
"Better Together" also contains that Small Group study material. Each week you will watch a DVD with some teaching on the topic for that week, and then look at some questions and issues that surround this. It is important to bring your book along to each Small Group meeting.
Life is busy, so when you find out which night your group is on, block that out in your diary for the next 7 weeks. You, the group, and the church, will benefit from making this regular commitment.
What if I haven't heard from anyone about a Small Group?
Don't panic!!! If you haven't heard from anyone about your Small Group by Monday 12th February, email 40days@redlandscrc.org.au, or phone Clinton (0424477487) and I will follow it up.
This Week's Prayer Focus: God's Preparation
- Pray for the preparation of each person's heart for what God desires to do in each life during the 40 Days of Community.
- Pray for the spiritual preparation of our pastors and leaders- for their time of prayerful solitude and fresh times in God's Word.
- Pray that each person's prayer time would be the most important time of preparation for the campaign.
- Pray for the logistics of the distribution of materials to the hosts, for a smooth operation and great anticipation of this time of "community"
- Pray for the invitations to be passed to everyone whom God intends to recieve one.
- Praise God for His amazing plan.
"Give yourselves to God... surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes." Romans 6:13 (TEV)
This Sunday
Better Together - Discovery Service 9am & 5pm
Why are relationships so tough? We're not even thinking of romance here - we're just talking about life, right? Why can't people just get along? We just seem to get more and more fragmented. Does following Jesus as individuals or a group make any real difference to these struggles? If so, is it sustainable, or just baptised wishful thinking? Could it have real impact on Cronulla Beach, or in Bagdad, or with your next door neighbour?
Come Sunday, and explore what God has said and done. Bring some friends, and see what new hope God may have for you
Questions: justask@redlandscrc.org.au, or contact Dave on 0418 383 055, dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Pick up the Podcast at http://www.redlandscrc.org.au/rss/sermons.xml
Surgery Date
Hi all,
Just want to keep you up to date with where things are at. Today I had my appointment with the surgeon and the result is that they will removing the lymph nodes in my neck on Monday morning. I will be in hospital for 2-4 days, depending on how quickly I recover.
Having the surgery so quick is a real answer to prayer.
We appreciate your continued support in every way at this time.
Clinton, Tracy, Tane and Ky
Peter Janetzski: Coming to Redlands CRC
Peter Janetzski has been invited to speak at a MOPS morning on Wednesday 28 Feb. On this particular day we would like to open the invitation to all women. This is a great opportunity to be encouraged and empowered in your role as woman and mother. Peter is a very well known and regarded family therapist who also hosts talk back show, 'Talking Life' on 96five. He is passionate about equipping people to help in the growth of healthier, happier and stronger relationships. The morning's program which includes morning tea will only cost $5 per head. How could you pass this one up???
Details
- What ~ Peter Janetzski ~ Talking to women and mums
- Where~ Redlands Christian Reformed church
- When ~ Wednesday 28 Feb 9.15-11.30
- How much ~ only $5 at the info desk or contact...
~ Miranda 3822 9635 (0432 579 044)
~ Helen 3829 3468 (0408 626 863)
~ Wendy 3822 7715 (0400 197 208)
Prayer list
Devote Yourselves to Prayer
-
Give thanks for the safe arrival of little Ella Nikita, beautiful daughter of Jenni and Aarron Holz. Pray for guidance and wisdom for these parents as they bring their child up with a knowledge of and love for our Lord and Saviour.
-
Pray for
-
Please continue to remember Rani Gillan in your prayers. Rani is currently in hospital with an internal abdominal abscess. She will probably be in hospital for at least another week as they work to reduce the infection and build up her strength in preparation for surgery. Please uphold the family at this time.
-
Uphold the church community as we prepare for the 40 days of community together.
-
Following the purchase of the neighbouring properties, let’s ask the Lord to broaden our vision to bring Gospel Hope to the Redlands Community. Pray that God will show us how we are to fulfil His call for us in this community.
Mid Week News
Sunday 4th February 2007
AM: The second petition of the Lord's Prayer: "Your Kingdom come". Wherever people love and worship God, there the Kingdom has already come. But that Kingdom is far from complete, and it is only when Christ returns that God will be "all in all". In the meantime, God's people are to be fully involved in extending that Kingdom, for the devil is still wielding much power. No one can pray "Your Kingdom come", and at the same time remain a fence-sitter. Read Matthew 13: 24-52.
PM: Our world focuses on what we want, what makes us happy, our preferences and desires. It's all great, right? And what's more, our lifestyle and the opportunities afforded by living in Australia make most of it attainable. It's incredible when you think about it! Our personal power of choice is unparalleled in history and the envy of 99.5% of the current world
population. So... why should I care about broken people? What difference will it make to me? Read Matthew 9:35-38.
Car Wash
First of the year, will be on Saturday 10th February. Funds going to School Chaplaincy.
Contact Damien Watson - Ph 3829 3468 or damienwatson@optusnet.com.au for more details.
Leaders Required: Elder and Deacon
Just a reminder that Church Council is looking for nominations for the position of Elder and Deacon.
Church Council will consider these nominations at their first meeting on 13 February. Your nominations must be in writing and passed/emailed to a Church Council member or to one of the pastors.
Eligibility to serve on Church Council at Redlands CRC:
- exemplary Christian character
- a member of Redlands CRC
- in full agreement with the statements of faith we subscribe to (see the Handbook)
- fully supportive of the vision and mission of Redlands CRC (see the Handbook)
Enquiries and feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
2 Weeks to go...
2 weeks to go...
Day of Fasting
This week, in addition to our times of prayer, we are going to join together in a time of fasting for the campaign. To allow some flexibility, we ask that everyone choose one day out of either the 5th, 6th or 7th of February. The fast may take on some different forms. If you would like some teaching on this, it can be emailed to you by sending a request to damienwatson@optusnet.com.au. Alternatively, there will be some hard copies available at the information booth in the foyer this Sunday.
Sign Up- time is running out!
This week is the last week that we can order material for 40 Days of Community, and be assured that we wil receive it before the 18th February. If you have not already done so and wish to take part, please do this on Sunday, or email 40days@redlandscrc.org.au.
What happens next?
For those who are already in Small Groups- your group leader will contact you in the next week to let you know when you are meeting first, where, and what to expect. The week before the Campaign begins, you will meet in your Small Group, receive the book "Better Together" and hear a little of what this time is going to entail.
If you have signed up, but were not in a Small Group in 2006, you will hear from a Small Group leader in the coming week, informaing you which group you will be in for the 40 Days. We are starting several new groups on different nights, and you will be put in one of these.
If you are unsure of what is happening, or haven't heard from anyone by the end of the week, please contact Clinton at the church, or email 40days@redlandscrc.org.au.
This Week's Prayer Focus: God's Presence
- Pray that the Holy Spirit will confirm in each life that He is present and has called each person to participate during the 40 Days of Community.
- Pray that those who are discouraged would be encouraged by a new understanding of how to live life in community with others.
- Pray for those who are emotionally, physically, and spiritually weary, to experience renewed strength and healing.
- Pray fo the Campaign Days of Prayer and Fasting to be a day of deep heart preparation for this campaign.
- Pray for His peace in the turmoil and business of the week.
"Looking upon them, Jesus said, 'with men it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God.'" Mark 10:27 (NASB)
Surgery Update
Hi all
Many of you have been asking and wondering where I am
up to
in preparing for surgery. Today I found out that I have an appointment
with the
surgeon on Wednesday morning next week. For the public system – my
Oncologist
says - this is very quick and good news. The surgeon (Dr. Ingram) will
then
decide when to do the surgery.
This may not have happened quite as quickly as we had
hoped
or planned for, but we are glad that it is moving forward now.
Again, we want to thank you for your many emails and
calls
of support during this time – and the many prayers that have been
offered
to our Father. We rest assured that this continues to remain in His
hands, and
that means everything.
We will continue to keep you informed as things move
forward
from here.
Clinton, Tracy, Tane and
Ky
Prayer & Praise
Hi Church,
A few points for you to bring before our gracious Lord!
- Please remember Rani Gillan, who is
currently in
hospital with an internal abdominal abscess.
She will probably be in hospital for a few weeks as they work to reduce the
infection and
build up her strength in preparation
for
surgery. Please uphold Jo and Peter, Rani’s parents, as
Jo takes up a
new position at Wynnum, and Peter returns to work in
- Aarron & Jenni Holz are proud to announce the safe arrival of Ella Nikita, born at 1:30pm on Saturday. Jenni and Ella are doing fine! God’s gift of life is so precious!
Mid Week News
Sunday 28th January 2007
AM: Jesus' not-so-hidden agenda - Matthew 16:13-20
At the beginning of the year (more or less) what priorities should we be thinking about? What about the Master Plan? Where are we headed? What's really important in all this? Jesus words to Peter in Matt 16 are a wake up call for all of us, challenging us with who he really is, and the implications for his church today. Read ahead at Matt 16:13-20.
PM: Where do we fit? - 1 Peter 2:4-12
We are different. We know that. Christians are different from the world around us. But what do we do with that difference? The two options that we usually take are these: 1) Isolation - we cut ourselves off from the rest of the world so we don't stand out and cop too much flak, or 2) Assimilation - we minimize some of our differences so that we don't look so different after all. But the New Testament talks about another way, a different way. A way of remaining pure, and distinctive, but at the same time being an agent of change in the world. Read ahead in 1 Peter 2:11-12.
Car Wash
First of the year, will be on Saturday 10th February.
Funds going to School Chaplaincy.
Contact Damien Watson
Ph 3829 3468 or damienwatson@optusnet.com.au for more details.
3 Weeks To Go...
40 Days of Community
3 weeks to go...
40 days is for the whole family!
Some people have been wondering what is happening for youth and children during 40 Days of Community. This is a church-wide program and some of the youth and children's ministry activities will be specially targeted for this purpose.
For those who attend Kids@Church, they will be participating in their own version of 40 Days. They too, like their parents, will have daily reading and activity assignments to complete, and their Kids@Church classes will be studying material relevant to the topic, which will keep in step with the rest of the church.
For those who are part of the High School Ministry (years 8-10) there will also be special material. They too will have daily readings and a High School Ministry time, including Small Groups, each Sunday afternoonn from 3-4:30 pm. For more information about this contact Dan Kroon on kroony@mac.com.
For those in the Young Adults Ministry (years 11+), their Small Groups will be participating in the adult 40 Days program, including the reading of the book "Better Together" and the Small Group DVD studies.
Each week the main themes that each group is studying will be same, and each day, the readings and exercises that each do will have similarities. This can make a great family time of study and learning if parents put the time and effort to do this together. It could kickstart a great habit of family Bible studies and prayer!
Have you signed up yet?
Sign up continues this week. Still there are a number of people in Small Groups who have not signed up, and time is running out. We can order the last lot of material on the 3rd of February, which makes this Sunday the last opportunity for us to get an idea of numbers. If you think you are likely to forget to sign up this Sunday or won't be here, why not do it now by emailing 40days@redlandscrc.org.au.
This week's Prayer Focus: God's Provisions
- Pray that God will provide the energy, time and endurance for all tasks to be done in preparation for the 40 Days of Community.
- Pray that God will provide the needed volunteers to make each campaign event successful.
- Pray that God will provide our church with all of the material resources needed to facilitate this campaign.
- Pray that God will provide unity among leaders and ministers in our church, as they give their time and adjust their schedules to meet deadlines.
- Pray that people would gain a full understanding of the wonderful opportunity this campaign presents, for clarity in communications, and for enthusiastic responses. Ask God to remove any spiritual blockages to the message.
- Pray for more Small Group leaders, for the mission projects we will be participating in.
"And not beacuse we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Our only power and success comes from God." 2 Corinthians 3:5 (NLT)
Health Update
Hi Church,
As some of you have already heard by now, over the
last
week there have been a couple of developments with my health, following
on from
my melanoma a few months back. I discovered another lump in my neck a
week ago,
which this week was decided was a lymph node that has been infiltrated
by the
melanoma. After an appointment with my oncologist on Tuesday it has been
decided to remove all of the lymph nodes in the right hand side of my
neck. At
the moment I am awaiting a surgery date which looks like it will be some
time
next week. I have had other tests and the results of those, with the
results of
biopsies on my lymph nodes, will determine where we go from
here.
Again, it is a time of uncertainty, but also a time
of
great reliance on our heavenly Father. We are sure that this too is in
His
hands, and that is the best place for it to be. It has been hardest for
Tracy,
who is also struggling with morning sickness at the moment. Her Mum,
Tania, has
come to spend a few days with us to give us a hand through this time.
We would greatly appreciate your prayers at this
time.
There is not a lot of practical help that we need at the moment, but be
assured, when there is, we will be on the phone.
Currently I am just ‘working’ as normal,
and
will rearrange things when I know when my surgery is.
Again, thank you for your love, support, prayers and
friendships. There is no better family to belong to than the family of
God.
Clinton,
Film and Theology
Film and Theology – TOMORROW
NIGHT
Shakespeare Behind Bars
Our first Film
and Theology
night will be held tomorrow
(Thursday
January 25th)
7pm
Film and
Theology is a
way to present the themes of the Bible through contemporary
media
The film
“Shakespeare Behind Bars” is a documentary that takes us
into a
prison in the
We will watch
the movie
together and then think about the themes the movie raises and the
gospel.
It’s a
great way to
introduce people to the message of Jesus in a non-threatening
way
For a review
visit www.pbsfm.org.au/Documents.a
sp?ID=4214&Title=Shakespeare+Behind+Bars+(Madman+Films)
(This film is
rated M
– Moderate Themes and is not suitable for
children)
For more info
email filmandtheol
ogy@redlandscrc.org.au
or clinton@redlandscrc.
org.au
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