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Mid Week News
Redland City Youth Services - Friday Night 7:30
The first of these exciting services will be hosted by us on Friday evening 25th April, 2008. Please pray for the team as they prepare for this Youth Service.
Sunday
9am: The Westminster Catechism (17th century) asks the question: What is the chief end of man? The answer: To glorify God and enjoy Him forever.
This morning our focus will be on the glory of God as well as on the amazing truth that God's people already in this life are reflecting some of that glory. But how do we, in the nitty-gritty of daily life, bring God the glory in everything we do?
5pm: We often hear that we should read the Bible more. But is this really what God wants, more and more reading? Proponents of Plastic Religion, such as those in the time of Amos, and today, make a great deal of reading the Word of God, knowing lots about the Word of God, but yet still come under the judgment of God. Why is this? This Sunday night we begin our series in the book of Amos, looking at 7:10-17, and being challenged to consider our response to the Word of God. Are we simply going to listen to it, be wowed by it, or are we actually going to live it?
New Small Groups Getting Started
We would like to kick of two new Small Groups in the next few weeks.
1) Thursday night for ladies (mixed ages)
2) Men's Group (night negotiable)
If you would be interested in being a part of either of these groups, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Clinton (clinton@redlandscrc.org.au; 0424 477 487)
Support your local Soccer Team!
Redlands Crusaders v Enoggera B
Game starts at 3:00pm on Saturday, 26th April, 2008 at Clarks Road Soccer Club, Clarks Road, Loganholme.
Come along and cheer our team on.
How they're doing so far this season:-
Redlands Crusaders Results
29-Mar-08
1 vs CCC United (A)
won 3 - 2
12-Apr-08
2 vs Caboolture (H)
draw 0 - 0
19-Apr-08
3 vs Victoria Point A (A)
lost 2 - 3
Opportunity - Seniors Outreach Ministry
Redland Residential Care, the nursing home attached to Redland Hospital, is seeking assistance with brief - but very necessary - monthly devotional services for the residents of the home. These would typically comprise of
- Opening prayer
- hymns interspersed during service
- Scripture Reading
- Devotional reading
- closing prayer
- Individual prayer for the residents
- Holy communion could also be offered after each service.
Could this be a great ministry for seniors to seniors?
Something that interests you, even if you are not representative of the youth of yesteryear?
Please prayerfully consider this, and if you would like to be involved, please email dave@redlandscrc.org.au or phone 0418 383 055
Prayer Update
Bob Ireland was readmitted to hospital yesterday with more chest pain. PLease remember Bob & Willie in prayer, and ask especially for healing and recovery after Bob's bypass operation last week.
Carlee Spiers (Update)
Apologies...
Carlee's opertation was a cornea transplant (sometimes I just write stuff too fast...) Even so, please keep praying for a speedy and effective recovery - DG
Thursday Tune Up
Plastic Religion?
Godly faith for God's World - Studies in the Book of Amos
Imagine a society that is just growing in wealth. Resource stocks are up, inflation is not too bad, the majority of people own their own home, many are even thinking of a second home - just because they can. Then image that just about everyone in this society is religious. They go to church, they sing their hearts out, they attend Bible studies, they give to the cause of the church. This society has everything that it needs, peace, prosperity, culture, religion, leadership, everything they could imagine, everything that indicated that the blessing of God was on them.
So imagine Israel's surprise, when 3000 years ago God sends them the prophet Amos and says, "Your Religion is plastic, your past is an abomination and your future is destruction." Not a message that gets well received. The prophet Amos hits hard, he calls it as it is. He shows us that below the surface, the plastis veneer of religion, Israelite society was sick. The poor are abused, the wealth is horded by the rich, the religion is merely for show. And he makes God's promise clear - if you go this way you have defiled the promises of God, used them for your own benefit and are going to be destroyed.
Amos calls us, today, to examine our lives, our hearts and our church. God calls us, and invites us into change, real change. God's call, through Amos is for a Godly faith, founded and built on Jesus. Because this is God's world, and his church has a role to play in making the greatness and the goodness of God known.
Starting on Sunday 27th April, for 6 weeks in the PM services, Dan and Clinton will be preaching through this book. We want to really encourage you to read through the book in the coming week, individually, as families, and in Small Groups. As you read, if you come up with anything that sounds strange, out of place, or you just don't get, email us (kroony@mac.com; clinton@redlandscrc.org.au) and we'll endeavor to address those issues through the series.
Small Group study material will also be made available. If you would like to make use of this email clinton@redlandscrc.org.au
Sunday PM - What's the big deal?
This is the question we ask when we really want to get to the bottom of something: the missing money, the broken window, the stain on the carpet. Our hope is that there is an acceptable explanation. What about life? Can we ask that question about life? About being a follower of Jesus? About the church? Sunday night we ask this question from God's perspective. When you understand the answer, it may just change your life. Want to read ahead? Go to Eph 2:11-3:21
New Elders
Marcel Doedens and Cameron Nugent will be installed as elders on May 11, 2008 in the AM service
Outreach @ Redlands CRC: Let's go!
We are seeking to make the value of outreach, and our actual involvement in this ministry, more prominent n every area of church life. For that reason Dan Neville has been welcomed into the Ministry Team as Outreach Coordinator. Dan and Gayle are keen to see this critical area of ministry gain a real lift. To that end, they would like to hear from any people interested in discussing how this can be done. This is not a sneaky way to ‘put you on a committee' - it really an opportunity to develop some exciting ideas and gain some common vision for outreach.
Dan & Gayle would love to hear from all you interested people: please contact them on 3824-4084 or dnev@bigpond.net.au
Prayer
* Carlee Spiers' operation (retina transplant) went very well. Please pray that the Lord will work through this and beyond it to bring healing and recovery to Carlee
* Please keep those older people in mind who are suffering reduced mental faculties in old age: Alf Tasman, Aad Mostert, Wia Bos, Tood le Clercq. Keep asking that even as their mind unravel they may know the nearness and goodness of the Lord in the land of the living
* Remember the people currently in Burma: Frank and Janette Hemelaar, Rowena Forno, Allete Visser, Bev Heazelwood. Give thanks for the safe return of Eddie Bos last Tuesday. Pray for peace in Burma and for freedom to carry on the work at the orphanage
* Clinton's parents arrive in the next few days. They will be staying for a week or so. Give thanks that they can celebrate the wonderful goodness of God in Clinton's recovery
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Tuesday Update
New Elders affirmed!
We're very pleased to announce that Marcel Doedens and Cameron Nugent were both overwhelmingly affirmed as Elders last Sunday.
Please pray for Marcel and Cameron as they settled into their servant-leader roles. They will be installed as elders on May 11, 2008
Boundary Road Sale
Last weekend we made the congregation aware that we have received a very attractive offer on the Boundary Rd property. After negotiations and initial discussion among the eldership, we now want to bring a proposal to the congregation for the sale of that property.
Background
The Boundary Rd Property was purchased by Redlands CRC in June 2005 for $750,000.
As a congregation we have already agreed in principle in November 2006 to sell the property. That much of the question has already been settled. What we need to agree on now is whether to accept this current contract.
Details of the current offer:
Price: $1.6 million
Terms:
- Settlement: 30 days
- Due diligence: 14 days
- Finance: 21 days
The eldership therefore will call (very) brief meetings of the congregation after both the 9am and 5pm services on April 20 to consider the following motion:
That Redlands CRC approve the current contract of sale for the Boundary Rd property
While this seems like (and is) a huge amount of money, we remind the congregation that we do have outstanding debt, and a building extension program to finance. Sale of this property does not mean there is less of a need to be cheerful, regular and resolute givers. There is much to be done in Redlands.
Further, one of the pressing issues is that the relevant financial institution approves the sale.
So we urge the congregation to prayerfully consider this matter, and respond with a strong, clear and united voice.
Dave Groenenboom
Ministry Administrator Appointed
We are also happy to announce that Margaret Nugent has been appointed Ministry Administrator. We are very thankful for answered prayer, and continue to pray that as Margaret settles into her role she will be used by the Lord to assist our mission and ministry.
We do want people to be aware that this appointment will not replace volunteer tasks currently being undertaken. This position is designed to expand our ministry effectiveness.
Please pray for Margaret as she plans to commence duties on April 28.
REFF Thank-you BBQ
For all those volunteers who helped out with the Redlands Easter Family Festival, you are being treated to a BBQ lunch at the Wellington Point reserve on Saturday April 18 from 11:00am - 3:00pm. Feel free to roll up...
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Boundary Road - Proposed Sale
During the past week we have been approached by a potential buyer for the Boundary Road property. After negotiations and initial discussion among the eldership, we now want to bring a proposal to the congregation for the sale of that property.
The Boundary Rd Property was purchased by Redlands CRC in June 2005 for $750,000.
As a congregation we have already agreed in principle in November 2006 to sell the property. That much of the question has already been settled. What we need to agree on now is whether to accept this current contract.
Details of the current offer:
Price: $1.6 million
Terms:
- Settlement: 30 days
- Due diligence: 14 days
- Finance: 21 days
The eldership therefore will call (very) brief meetings of the congregation after both the 9am and 5pm services on April 20 to consider the following motion:
That Redlands CRC approve the current contract of sale for the Boundary Rd property
We urge the congregation to prayerfully consider this matter, and respond with a strong, clear and united voice.
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Dave Groenenboom
Elder Affirmations
The eldership of Redlands CRC places the following names before the congregation for affirmation: Marcel Doedens and Cameron Nugent. We ask the church family to prayerfully consider these men. The affirmation will take place with a vote of the membership on April 13 in the AM & PM services. Election as Elder requires a majority of at least 80% of all votes counted.
Mid Week News
Sunday
9am: Miracles - Their Effect and Purpose: We all know about the parable of the talents: we are called to be courageous with the opportunities and gifts God gives. You also see this when God works in wonderful ways: given that God has done this, what does it mean for us, for ministry, for Gospel work?
5pm: So is God a hard task master, or more like a gentle giant? There are two ‘versions' of God that we often hold on to. One where he is stern and mean and punishing (that's the God we would like to unleash on all the bad people out there) The other is where is forgiving, loving and welcome (that's the God its good to come home too). Is it possible that God could be both at the same time? Could he even be both to Christians and non-Christian alike?
Kids at Church & Nite
Hi Church family,
It holiday time again and Kids at Church and Kids at Nite will not be on this Sunday (13th) or the following Sunday (20th).
There will be a holiday kids program for the little kids in kindy to grade 1 run by Jan Hughes & Suz Faulkner over the two weeks. For the older grade 2-7 there will be activity sheets and pencils at the welcome desk.
Kids Church and Kids at Nite will kick off with our new program "Body Worx" on 27th April. See you then!
Memorial Service
The memorial service for Jo Haase will be held at 3pm on Monday at St Stephens Anglican, Cnr Chatsworth and Cavendish Rds, Coorparoo. Please continue to remember the Haase family in their time of grief. Jesus is resurrection and life.
YAK 's Excellent Bill & Ted MOVIE NIGHT!
DATE: 11th April 2008 Friday night
TIME: 7 pm
WHERE: At the church.
WHAT TO BRING: Food, drinks, pillows,etc.
HOW MUCH $$$: no cost, only your time.
Kids Holidays
Hi Church family,
It holiday time again and Kids at Church and Kids at Nite will not be on this Sunday (13th) or the following Sunday (20th).
There will be a holiday kids program for the little kids in kindy to grade 1 run by Jan Hughes & Suz Faulkner over the two weeks. For the older grade 2-7 there will be activity sheets and pencils at the welcome desk.
Kids church and Kids at Nite will kick off with our new program "Body Worx" on 27th April. See you then!
Prayer
Dear church,
Please pray for Bill Hughes' father, Peter, who has been admitted to hospital with chest and heart concerns.
Continue to uphold the Haase family in prayer (Maria and David, Lindsay and Rachel) as the mourn the loss of their daughter and sister Jo. Pray that the message of the gospel would be their strength and comfort in this trying time, and that God would surround them with love and his people.
Also remember those who have travelled to Sydney for the church planting conference. Pray that God may use this time to increase the ministry of our church to the community.
News from Burma
New Life Orphanage - Myanmar (Burma)
Please find attached the latest newsletter on the orphanages in Myanmar. RCRC remains very supportive of this ministry, and we commend this newsletter to the congregation.
Dr Maria Haase and Beverly Heazelwood have been in Yangon assisting the setting up of a medical clinic.
We ask you especially pray for Maria, as her daughter Jo died suddenly last Saturday. Maria is currently travelling home to be with her family (David, Lindsay and Rachel). Please surround them with the care and support of the body of Christ. May the Lord grant them every grace and strength in this time of grief.
Eddie Bos
David Groenenboom
Mid Week News
Sunday
9am: Skimming through the Gospels we see pretty quickly that there is often a connection between miracles and faith. Often, but not always. But often enough for us to observe the connection. Whether we understand it well, though, is another question. So Sunday, we're going back to Mark 5 - same passage as last week - to ask ‘what makes miracles happen'? There is hardly a more difficult or more important question. The week after we'll be looking at the general effect of miracles in the Gospels and acts: plenty of comfort and no small amount of challenge.
You may have your own questions about miracles: feel free to email them through: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
5pm: We've come to the last (and 9th!) sermon dealing with the Lord's Prayer: 'Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory'.
Is that what we see in this world? Is God recognized as King; do people revere Him as all-powerful; does He get all the glory?
Sadly, the answer is so often in the negative. There are so many others in our world, competing for power and glory! Nevertheless, in FAITH the church continues to praise God, and says: "Yours is the kingdom, the power, the glory."
And God's people say "Amen" to that!
Next week:
There's a church planting conference in Sydney, and a team of eight, including Clinton, Dave and Rod will be heading south to make the most of it. The conference is being run by the people Rod visited in the UK last year, and we're excited about learning from those who have such a great track record. It would be great if you could uphold us in prayer as we get further resourced in this critical area.
Can you help with home items?
Dear Church family,
We have a new family who have moved from South Africa and have been living with Craig and Kerry Jewel the past week. They have now found a home to rent and move in this weekend.
Can you lend them things to fit out their home for about 2-3 months until the container arrives from South Africa? They have matresses already, but anything else that you could lend them would be appreciated (fridge, washing machine, chairs, table, kettle, pots/pans/trays, iron, linen etc).
If you can help please call Craig Jewel on 3822 5535 or 0421 965 934 and he will arrange to collect it.
Burma - how you can help...
New Life Orphanage- Myanmar (Burma)
A small group of people are planning to visit the New Life Orphanage in Myanmar during April.
Israel, from the orphanage, has requested a few items which are difficult to purchase there.
1. Piano lesson books or cd's.
2. Dentistry books or tools. (One young man is currently studying dentistry - 4th year)
3. Any Rick Warren books.
If you can help, please contact Eddie. 0416 000 600 Thanks
Correction: Sunday Service Info
The corrected service information for Sunday is:
9am: What does the NT say about miracles? How does that challenge and/or confirm what we believe and express today? During the next few weeks we'll be look at this issue in the AM services. This week, we want to start with what a miracle actually is, and consider how this influences how we go about life as followers of Jesus.
5pm: Have you ever wondered why we struggle as followers of Jesus? To be obedient, to love, to be as God called us to be? One of the basic problems is that God is too small. He's so limited, he's only interested in our souls, our Sundays and our eternity, he only shows up once in a while. He is just not big enough. But Psalm 29 calls us to be sold out for God, to be sold out for a God who is so massive, so all encompassing, it blows your mind away.
Mid Week News
Sunday
9am: Have you ever wondered why we struggle as followers of Jesus? To be obedient, to love, to be as God called us to be? One of the basic problems is that God is too small. He's so limited, he's only interested in our souls, our Sundays and our eternity, he only shows up once in a while. He is just not big enough. But Psalm 29 calls us to be sold out for God, to be sold out for a God who is so massive, so all encompassing, it blows your mind away.
5pm: What does the NT say about miracles? How does that challenge and/or confirm what we believe and express today? During the next few weeks we'll be look at this issue in the PM services. This week, we want to start with what a miracle actually is, and consider how this influences how we go about life as followers of Jesus.
Water Tank Funding Approved
Last year Church Council became aware that the Federal Government had started a community water grants scheme; we were encouraged to apply for a grant so we went through the application process. We are pleased to inform the congregation that a sum of $15000.00 has been received to fund the installation of water tanks on the Church grounds. The funding has been granted on the condition that it will benefit the community by allowing the Church to continue with the community car washes that were in place prior to the water restrictions coming into force. We have just started the quoted process and are hoping to have underground water tanks installed as soon as possible.
Peter Goodridge
To all who use the church property:
The Management Committee would like to encourage everyone in the church family to be good stewards of the buildings and property. We encourage you all, especially group and ministry leaders, to observe the following
- After your activity is finished, vacuum the hall if necessary. This is especially important for any groups that distribute food (popcorn, chips, cake, etc). If there is food matter squashed into the carpet, please scrape off what you can, and completely clean the rest with hot water and a little detergent
- Pick up all rubbish lying about around
- If there are lots of food scraps in the bins, empty the bins and replace the liners
- Wash, dry and put away all cups, dishes, etc. in the appropriate cupboard
- If you have used a lot of tea towels, take them home, wash them, and return them clean
- Stack any excess chairs, leaving 6 or 7 around each round table
- Leave the hall like you would want to find it. Treat the church property as your own. Take some pride in the great facility the Lord has given us
Thank you for your cooperation.
Management Committee
Internet Use and Abuse...
Recently, a major Australian newspaper ran an article about a recent study of pornography consumption in Australia. The results indicated that the terrible effects of this industry are being felt more and more in mainstream society and communities like our own. Further, there are occasional stories of how people who would otherwise be regarded as upright citizens being caught in its ugly web. Simply by the law of averages, there will probably be some in every church who also struggle with pornography and sexual addiction.
Recently I was asked by someone if I knew of any good internet filtering software that could be used to reduce the risk of pornographic material entering our homes. Here are a couple:
http://www.netalert.gov.au/ - an Australian Government initiative to inform families and individuals about the Internet and associated risks. There is also a link on the main page to some very effective filtering tools
http://www.xxxchurch.com/ - a Christian organisation which seeks to help people trapped by porn, and which also seeks to reclaim the lives of people in the porn industry with the message of Jesus
Some PC utility suites, such as Norton Internet Security have free ‘add-ons' that include parental control for home computers.
In reality, however, none of these tools provide foolproof protection. This is especially the case for adults who are also the ‘administrators' of their PCs. Sometimes, the only affective approach is prayer, diligent self control, and where necessary, a commitment to seeking the help of competent counsellors and therapists.
Redlands CRC is committed to being a safe place for children and families. We also want to be a community where no one who is struggling against these urges should have to do so without sensitive pastoral support. Addiction of any sort can be a very lonely place. Jesus would want that to be different.
If you need to talk with someone about this, you can speak with Clinton or myself. You can be assured of confidentiality within typical professional parameters. We also have excellent people we can refer you to if that is your wish. Please let us know: dave@redlandscrc.org.au, clinton@redlandscrc.org.au
YAK CAFÉ - This Sunday
- Live Music
- Real Coffee
- Xbox
- So you think you can dance?
- Sweets
- Light meals
- Cold drinks
- All ages
Sunday 30th March
Opens 6.30pm (After PM Service) @ Church
To volunteer, email funky_foreva@hotmail.com
Accommodation: Michael Rietveld
Hi friends,
Just letting you know that the accommodation needs for Michael Rietveld have been met through a family in the Inala congregation.
Meanwhile, the Venter family from South Africa will also be hosted here with Craig & Kerry Jewell.
Thanks for your consideration and hospitality. It's great that there are open doors and open hearts in the family of God!
Every blessing,
Dave
Thanks REFF Volunteers!
To all who helped out at the Redlands Easter Family Festival - thanks so much for your sterling effort. Estimates are that around 15,000 people went through the gates. So to all those who made donuts, lugged bins, helped at our stall in the pavilion, contributed to last night's service, and helped set up and pull down, and all sorts of other things - thanks so much!
I was, at one point, standing in line, eavesdropping on a conversation between two men behind me...
Man 1: Yeah well, I wasn't gonna come along because you just don't know what it's going to be like...
Man 2: Yep...
Man 1: Yeah, so well, I sez to the missus, ‘c'mon, let's go' and..
Man 2: yeah...
Man 1: ...well everyone is really terrific. A great bunch of people. Should be more of it...
Man 2: yep
The ‘everyone' referred to were those serving. They were all wearing ‘Here to serve" shirts, and I think some genuine community sentiment was expressed in the conversation I heard. People may not be that ‘religious' but they know it's a good thing when Christians display something of the free grace of God in something like the Easter Festival.
Church: you have served well, and may God receive all the glory!
PS. A special "thankyou" to Doug and Judy Klitscher, who, despite technology woes, continued to serve with smiles on their faces all day (and most of Sunday night). You guys are wonderful reflections of the Saviour's servant heart. Rest well! You deserve it!
Short term need for Solomon Islands Mission Worker
Hi church,
Michael Rietveld, who works with missionary parents Kevin & Machi at the CRCA SWIM Base in Honiara, needs to come to Brisbane for some medical treatment. He needs to stay in this area for about three weeks (March 27 - April 17).
Is there anyone who can take Michael in for this time?
He would also needs collecting from Brisbane International and also to be returned there on his departure date (April 17).
This is obviously short notice, but maybe there's an hospitable family out there...
Can you help? Please contact dave@redlandscrc.org.au 0418 383 055
Please help people know about RCRC
We need a few people to keep our stall at Monday's Easter festival. This involves
•· Greeting people as they come past
•· Giving any information requested (all supplied)
•· Helping with any questions people may have
•· Just being great RCRC people
You're probably coming to the festival anyway, so why not just spend an hour doing this either side of your visit, or even during it.
All we need is a one hour commitment:
9am - 10am
10am - 11am
11am - 12 noon
12 noon - 1pm
1pm - 2pm
2pm - 3pm
Thanks for being part of this!
Respond asap to dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Mid Week News - 2nd edition
A Family Celebration
See Attached Photo
Alexandra Newton wrote to Clinton earlier this week saying,
Wow. Sunday was spectacular and what a way to finish a study of Christianity. Proof that God really is alive and at work.
I sat at the back and snapped this photo. What a testament to the value of family. May it always be a reminder of God's faithfulness and your wider family.
Alexandra also took a photo of our celebration and prayer at the end of the service. What a glorious celebration of God's gift of renewed life!
Sunday Night at the Showgrounds
"The Dawn of Hope" - Clinton will open the word for us and also announce Jesus as the Hope of this world. No one would be better positioned than Clinton to talk about that right now. Please bring your own chair, a blanket to keep you warm, and plenty of friends. It should be a great celebration. RCRC musicians will lead the singing.
Starting time: 6:00pm
Finishes: around 7:30pm - with fireworks
New South African family arriving in Australia
A family of five are arriving in Brisbane on Friday March 28th from Johannesburg. Rev Danie & Mrs Rene Venter, and the three children Adele, Christiaan and Esme) are hoping to settle in Brisbane, but need someone to take them in and help them with a few basics (bank accounts, Medicare, find accommodation, etc.). They have no family or friends in Brisbane (...yet J). Is there anyone who can take them in for a little while until they get their basics covered?
If you can help, please contact Rev Werner Viljoen, St Marys CRC (Sydney) on wviljoen@bigpond.net.au 02-9623 3151 or 0425 818 824
Mid Week News
Friday
9am: It is finished!
Hasn't it been an awesome week? If you're anything like me you're still wandering around amazed at the goodness and grace of our living God. On Friday we will have one more opportunity to express our thanks and to state our faith.
If you still want an opportunity to bring something to the Cross, you can do that on Friday. It will be a powerful reminder of the life Jesus has won through his death. So whether it's a testimony of thanks (and we have so much to be thankful for this week), a personal commitment to change, or a heartfelt declaration of faith, Friday is the day.
At the close of the service we will celebrate the Lord's Supper, which will be our assurance that Jesus in his mighty power has fully delivered us from death and forgiven us completely.
So come Friday morning, come prepared to fall in humble worship before our awesome Lord of glory!
Sunday
9am: On Sunday morning we look at the greatest turning point in the course of history, and what this means to us. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ brought light in the darkness and made life possible to all who would receive it. Often we focus on the death of Jesus and his sacrifice for us without moving naturally to the resurrection and the urge to shine the Light of Life!
We live in the future of the cross, with all that Jesus' resurrection brings - life over death, freedom from sin, light in the darkness! And now our risen Saviour has lit us like candles to shine the light of life to those who still live in the darkness. Come on Sunday morning to celebrate once again the EPIC story of Jesus' powerful defeat over death!
6pm: Join us for The Combined Redlands Churches Easter Sunday Celebration Night at the Cleveland Showgrounds to launch the Redlands Easter Family Festival.
Monday
9am - 3pm Redland Easter Family Festival at the Cleveland Showgrounds
From Margaret Foley
Dear Church
As you are aware I have provided the protocol for your pastor, Clinton, during his recent critical medical condition.
As a provider of alternative health services I was very encouraged to see the widespread support given to him from your church community in growing greens and juicing, etc. This enabled Clinton to undertake the challenging program that was set for him.
He has achieved this success through his perseverance and your support. He will need a continue a maintenance program for some time.
God Bless you for your prayerful and practical support.
Yours in Christ
Margaret Foley
Naturopath
Youth Café
Last Sunday of every month will see a swanky, fun Youth Café operating after the 5pm service.
Café will be open after the evening service for several hours & will serve real coffee, slices, cakes and a selection of light dinner meals.
And yes you have to pay for it, but it will be cheap and tasty!
The café will be Youth run, but it's not exclusive, so if you're young at heart or just like chatting please stick around for it!
We're looking for a name for the café, prizes for best entry so start thinking.
For those who don't like to talk please feel free to bring a guitar, board games, cards or stick around for Xbox/Movie on the big screen!
If you'd like to volunteer to bake for the café or help out please send an email to funky_foreva@hotmail.com.
Marriage Course
Some things you may want to know about the upcoming MARRIAGE COURSE
1. Our first session will be on April 19, and for 6 Saturday evenings after that.
2. Times: 7.15 pm. till 9.30 pm.
3. Location: Redlands Christian Reformed Church, corner Delancey & Sturgeon,
Ormiston.
4. Costs: $ 50 per couple, which covers the costs of the Manual for each person,
drinks, nibblies, coffee/tea, dessert,
5. No, you cannot come on your own.
6. No, it is not for engaged couples.
7. No, you will not be asked to divulge anything about your own relationship to
anybody else, but you will be encouraged to talk to your spouse.
8. No, it is not an indication that your marriage is in trouble when you come to this
Marriage Course. It certainly is not an admission of failure when you attend.
9. Yes, this course is for anyone who is married to help them get the most out of
their marriage.
10.Yes, this course is based on Christian principles, but is also very suitable for
non-churchgoers.
11.Each evening's subject will be presented via DVD/PowerPoint followed by
couple discussion. Privacy is guaranteed.
12.Yes, it will help you to discover areas in your relationship where you can do
some more growing together.
13.Yes, we will organize a baby-sit for you if needed.
14.Yes, in case you have to miss a session, we will see to it that you get the
information you missed out on.
15.Yes, this is a course to enhance your marriage. And who would say 'No' to that?
16.Yes, it is for every couple, whether just married, or married for 50 years and
beyond!
Keith & Emmy, 34882009, 0407658880
Peter & Miranda, 38222641, 0432579044
Mission Trip to India
Hello there Church family! We are happy to let you know God has provided a wonderful house for us to live in! God works in the most amazing ways! Still awaiting the visa! But, so blessed to be a part of the community! YEAH!
We are also excited to share with you a mission trip to India that we will be a part of in Mid-April, for 2 weeks. We will be heading out with a team from Newcastle. Lance will be involved in teaching at the Pastor's Conference. Ruth will be sharing with the school educators. The entire team will be involved in work at the orphanage, hospital, school, and EVANGELISM.
The exact dates will be April 16-May 8, from Syndey to Chennai/Madras. Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is India's fourth largest city. With a population of nearly 6 million, and is the largest city in south India. Lance will be involved in teaching at the Pastor's Conference, of up to 2,500 people. Ruth will be sharing with 150 school educators. Our team of 6, at this time, will be involved in work at the orphanage, hospital, school, and EVANGELISM. We would love to get CRC involved as well. Here is a list of the different ways in which you can support the mission:
PRAYER
Kids/baby clothes for the orphanage
Supplies for the hospital
Supplies for the school
Sponsor a child for $30 per month
As a team member, joining us in India
If you have any further questions or are interested in involvement,
please let us know!!
May the God of Peace fill your heart to overflowing with His great grace!
Eternally Serving Him,
Lance and Ruth Bishop
It is finished!
Hasn't it been an awesome week? If you're anything like me you're still wandering around amazed at the goodness and grace of our living God. On Friday we will have one more opportunity to express our thanks and to state our faith.
If you still want an opportunity to bring something to the Cross, you can do that on Friday. It will be a powerful reminder of the life Jesus has won through his death. So whether it's a testimony of thanks (and we have so much to be thankful for this week), a personal commitment to change, or a heartfelt declaration of faith, Friday is the day.
At the close of the service we will celebrate the Lord's Supper, which will be our assurance that Jesus in his mighty power has fully delivered us from death and forgiven us completely.
So come Friday morning, come prepared to fall in humble worship before our awesome Lord of glory!
Where to from here?
Hi Church,
Wow... to be honest we are a little blown away at the moment. God's grace to us has extended to where we have prayed, but beyond where we dared to always hope. Its a lot to take in all at once, we are in a bit of a daze, but we are extremely thankful.
Yesterday we spent a long time with our naturopath, Margaret Foley. She too was blown away by the results. She said she had been quietly confident that the tumors had shrunk, but not to this point.
We talked a lot about where we go from here. She has suggested that we continue on, slightly less intense, but almost the same, for another 3 months. She is concerned that we give it a little longer for the lymph node to reduce and the last 'shadow' to disappear. This means 6 juices a day, instead of 10, an injection every days, rather than every day, and things like that. Following the 3 months I will go onto a much easier maintenance program, for a long time.
Having come through what we have, and seeing the power of God at work, it doesn't seem like much to continue. But having said that, it will be impossible to do without your continued support, love and, most importantly, prayers. We continue to look to God to bring about complete health, as he has begun to do. It will mean the continuation of a juicing roster, and grass growing, and reduced working hours for the short term future.
We are extremely thankful for your support so far and are thankful for your commitments to ongoing support in the future.
We also are thankful that God has used, and continues to use, these circumstances for his glory and to make known the greatness of Jesus. May he continue to do that as we together point to Him.
Thanks again
Clinton, Tracy, Tane, Ky and Kezia
Great news from Clinton and Tracy Berends!
Dear friends,
As you are aware, Clinton Berends heard last September that his melanoma had metastasised and his oncologist had remarked that Clinton may have until Christmas to live. There were tumours on his lungs and liver, and the prognosis was very grave.
We wanted to write and let you know some glorious news - Clinton had some scans last week to assess the whole situation with his health.
This morning Clinton and Tracy gave us the great news that the tumours are no longer there and that Clinton is cancer free. There is still one area that gives an indistinct result, but there tests indicate that there is no cancer present.
Great is your faithfulness, O God our Father!
What a celebration we had with God's people this morning!
Clinton and Tracy will write to you in due course, but we just wanted to let you know this glorious news God has given us! He deserves all glory, honour and praise!
To close this morning we prayed with thanksgiving, we read Ps 116, we sang Great is your faithfulness, and we cried wonderful tears of joy!
Hallelujah, Lord Jesus!
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
DVD's of this mroning's service can be ordered from ryan@royalfoods.com.au
Men, is this you??
-
- Eat steak for breakfast?
- Wear a blue singlet?
- Stubbies?
- Hairy chest?
- Can't stand to be on the sideline while others do the work?
- Believe that Jesus can be glorified through B.O., sweat, and awesome displays of human strength?
Maybe. Maybe not.
Even so, the Easter festival really needs you guys! Just a few hours, please!
Sunday March 23 from 9am (yes, you can wag church to serve this way) - site set up
Monday March 24 from 3pm - site pull down
...come on, let's show what gutsy RCRC blokes who follow Jesus can do!
Phone/email/speak with Doug Klitscher to say "I'm in!" dougklit@virginbroadband.com.au ph. 0418 811 603 or 3038 6519
Take the Next Step ...Day 6
Changed mind about my calling and purpose
We're quick to say that our wants should not be the focus of our lives. But it only takes a faulty appliance, a slow and irritating driver in front of us, a lost set of keys, or someone to ignore our instructions to expose how hard this is to make happen.
So I need to change my mind about my life calling and purpose, and how I live that out.
Jesus, you went to the cross to bear the judgement for my sin. You suffered total forsakenness and utter agony to bring me back to the Father. Jesus, I have changed my mind about you, and I now ask you to help me change my mind about my calling and purpose.
Let my real focus be the needs of others, and not my wants. Jesus, let me be like you.
I want to:
Belong more: I want to raise my attendance at church. I want to encourage my Christian family. I really want to make other feel welcome, and be more of a friend to the lonely
Journey more: move ahead in my love for you and my understanding of what you have done. Teach me, Lord Jesus, and help me to be a great teacher of others
Serve more: I have been so lazy and self directed, and forgotten that to be like you means true service. I want to place my time, my money, my gifts at your disposal. Here I am, Lord, use me
Go more: I want to be upfront about all you have done for me, and all you plan to do in the world. Open my mouth, give me the words, let me see opportunities and make the most of those opportunities to tell others about you
Glorify more: With the whole church family I want you to be in the centre, right where you belong. You deserve all honour, glory and praise. If ever there was a day to say that, it is today!
So, now, take a step. A step of gratitude. A step of faith. A step of commitment. A step of hope.
This coming Sunday (tomorrow) the entire Redlands CRC family get to make a statement of faith about what Jesus means to them.
Maybe you've just come to understand who Jesus is and what he has done for you. Maybe you want to reaffirm the faith he blessed you with sometime before. Or perhaps you want to break with some behaviour or attitude which you know grieves him - not to mention others.
Sunday will be the day (both services).
You will all have an opportunity to attach your statement of response to the cross.
You can prepare something at home, and bring it along. You can write it on the notepaper provided on Sunday. You can even email it in advance (you may be on the other side of the world).
Jesus took that huge step for you, and he is calling you to take a step and change your mind about him. There's no better way to respond.
Respond to justask@redlandscrc.org.au
Sunday teachings can be downloaded from www.redlandscrc.org.au/sermons
Positions Vacant: Ministry Administrator (half time)
Expressions of interest are sought for the position of Ministry Administrator (.5) at Redlands CRC
Position outline:
- Develop database and policies for future ministry and congregational growth
- Specifically assist full time pastors in secretarial tasks
- Manage day to day administrative tasks
Personal qualities required
- Warm effective interpersonal skills
- Supportive, positive, helpful personality
- Warmly supportive of all aspects of RCRC ethos, vision and mission
Necessary competencies
- General secretarial and administrative skills
- Familiarity with MS Outlook, Word, Excel, Access, Publisher (Office 2007), Windows XP/Vista
Apply via email with resume and refences to dave@redlandscrc.org.au before March 28, 2008
Taking the next step...Day 5
When we consider the work of Jesus, as we have been doing throughout Simply Christianity, it is good and right for us to be extremely thankful for what he has done - to celebrate the benefits that we receive from his work. But there is a part of us that wants it to end there, for it to be good news for us but no more.
But its actually impossible to study and think about Jesus and not realize that he is actually more than good news for us he is good news for the world.
Jesus calls us to not just change the way we view him, and ourselves - but the world around us. To see it as a world that is so desparately in need of him, so desparately in need of receiving his grace and his mercy and his hope.
Jesus, we confess that we have hoarded the gospel, and ignored your call to mission. We have sat snug and self righteous while condemning the world, and not realizing that but for your grace, we are idenitified with it. Change the way we view the lost, change our hearts, give us your hearts, of campassion and love. May we be true followers of the one who came to 'seek and save that which is lost.'
So, now, take a step. A step of gratitude. A step of faith. A step of commitment. A step of hope.
This coming Sunday the entire Redlands CRC family get to make a statement of faith about what Jesus means to them.
Maybe you've just come to understand who Jesus is and what he has done for you. Maybe you want to reaffirm the faith he blessed you with sometime before. Or perhaps you want to break with some behaviour or attitude which you know grieves him - not to mention others.
Sunday will be the day (both services).
You will all have an opportunity to attach your statement of response to the cross.
You can prepare something at home, and bring it along. You can write it on the notepaper provided on Sunday. You can even email it in advance (you may be on the other side of the world).
Jesus took that huge step for you, and he is calling you to take a step and change your mind about him. There's no better way to respond.
Respond to justask@redlandscrc.org.au
Sunday teachings can be downloaded from www.redlandscrc.org.au/sermons
Take the next step... Day 4
(apologies for those who missed this the first time...)
I need repent and change my mind about the church. Forgive me, Lord, because
-
- I have viewed the church as something which should keep me happy, provide services and programs for my family, do things just the way I want them to be done, and all that for the smallest contribution from me. Jesus, I have treated your body like McDonalds. Please forgive me.
- Along with so many others I have helped your body to look inwards too much, and just concentrate on the things we want. We haven't thought too much or too deeply about people around us who don't know you. I need to look outside, and to live outside, to carry Jesus' good news to those who have little to sing about. Make me, and us, a more outward focussed church, Lord.
- I also need to change my mind and behaviour about how I am involved in my church. As I bow my knee to you I recognise that being part of this family is not about how people treat me, but about how I use my gifts to serve them. Thank you, Jesus, that when you went to the cross you put my needs for life, hope, and forgiveness about your own comfort. It's not about me. It's about you, Jesus. Please help me to think and live this way in and for your church.
So, now, take a step. A step of gratitude. A step of faith. A step of commitment. A step of hope.
This coming Sunday the entire Redlands CRC family get to make a statement of faith about what Jesus means to them.
Maybe you've just come to understand who Jesus is and what he has done for you. Maybe you want to reaffirm the faith he blessed you with sometime before. Or perhaps you want to break with some behaviour or attitude which you know grieves him - not to mention others.
Sunday will be the day (both services).
You will all have an opportunity to attach your statement of response to the cross.
You can prepare something at home, and bring it along. You can write it on the notepaper provided on Sunday. You can even email it in advance (you may be on the other side of the world).
Jesus took that huge step for you, and he is calling you to take a step and change your mind about him. There's no better way to respond.
Respond to justask@redlandscrc.org.au
Sunday teachings can be downloaded from www.redlandscrc.org.au/sermons
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