David encouraged us with words from scripture about being unified in Christ. We have also been hearing a bit of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s book ‘Life Together’ that talks of the Christian walk. I’ve been encouraged to see the team using their gifts to serve God in a harmonious way, that is, not each trying to be the same as in ‘unison’ but each being the part that God has made them to be and complimenting the other.
Scripture: A team went to a local high school where a full time scripture teacher, Belinda has a good relationship with the students. She was encouraged to have the team step in for the morning in Year 7 and 8 classes. The Year 8 class was challenging but the team managed to have a few good conversations with the students. Pray for Belinda as she continues her teaching there.
Door knocking: A group went into the new housing estate inviting residents to Easter services at OVACC. It probably wasn’t the best time of day because most residents weren’t home. There were a few encouraging chats with opportunity for follow up. Some young mums who seemed interested in the play group. Please pray that the church will have an ongoing active presence in this new community.
Airforce Base, Tamworth airport: The team gathered to hear from the RAAF’s commanding officer and his view of chaplaincy. It was encouraging to hear how well the chaplaincy program is established and integrated within the structure of the defence force. It is a unique platform for ministry. We heard from Kevin (aka Air Commodore) who expressed that the hardest part of chaplaincy is the disconnect between the chaplain and the local church. He said that the church seem to be unaware of what goes on within the defence force. The team enjoyed rotating through 3 stages that afternoon: 1. a Q&A with Kevin, 2. a trip onto the air strip and 3. A tour of the air hanger where the planes are repaired. We got show bags too. With free aviator sunnies. Awesome.
Women’s Dessert Night: Ash gave a heartfelt talk on being accepted by Christ no matter what your circumstance. The passage was John 4 about the woman at the well. Ash prepared a script for the Samaritan woman which was read by Katie. Something about her Spanish accent brought the story to life! Some women expressed how timely this message was. The Carters served some delicious sweets and women stayed to chat afterwards.
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