Friday, February 15, 2013
Newsletter
Sunday 17th February, 2013 First Sunday in Lent
WELCOME to Holy Innocents—we hope you enjoy this time of prayer as we reflect on Scripture together and celebrate the Eucharist. Breakfast is available in the Hall after the 8 am service and morning tea after the 10 am. All are welcome.
Collect for today
O Lord, Who for our sake fasted forty days and forty nights; give us grace to use such abstinence that, our flesh being subdued to the spirit, we may ever obey Your godly will in righteousness and true holiness, to Your honour and glory, Who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God world without end. Amen
Today’s Readings First Sunday in Lent read by Eric D
Readings: Deuteronomy 26:1-11 and Romans 10:4—13
GOSPEL Luke 4: 1—15
PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE led by Hal S-C
We pray for those in need: Ron Teague, Peter Little, Dorothy Furnival, the Swaby family , Dianne Cordes. Tommy Ferguson, Bob Arnold, Ann Daughtry, Pat Pater, Susan Daulby, Janet Phillips, Jan and Mollie, Eddy Klose, Allan Pressley, Robyn Keynes’ sister Pam ..
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Mark Williams, Anthony Taylor, Ray Dixon
HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Meg & Don Baker
YEAR’S MIND— Jack Stauner, Ray Holdernesse (1993)
PREPARATION FOR NEXT SUNDAY Lent II
Readings: Genesis 15: 1 …..18 and Philippians 3: 17—4:1
GOSPEL Luke 13: 1—9
REGULAR GROUPS AND BOOKINGS -
PRAYER CIRCLE meets noon on the 2nd Tuesday each month at 36 Penno Parade North
BIBLE STUDY 10am Wednesdays at Pressley’s
THURSDAY 9.30am Eucharist 5.30pm Evening Prayer with Wendy
MOTHERS’ UNION - meets third Thursdays each month at 2.00pm—next meeting Febru-ary 21st –Fr. Warren will celebrate the Eucharist with a Lenten focus, and a planning meeting will be held . Suggestions for speakers etc., please, - and a small plate of afternoon tea t o share. Margaret Pressley, (Group Leader)
WALKING CHURCH First Saturday of each month at 5.00pm at Belair National Park gates near railway station bridge. Saturday week, 2nd March
Friday Morning HI Tea and Coffee is on again from 8.30am. Don’t miss the chance for a yarn
Anna Kelly is calling a meeting of people on the Sanctuary Roster for TODAY at 9.30am—all volunteers are asked to attend please.
Someone lent Fr. Ron a large swag of old photos of Holy Innocents’ when the 20 year anni-versary magazine of the move to this building was published. Since then, the person who lent them has not claimed them. Please catch up with Fr. Ron if you know whose photos they are.
Lenten Studies are to be held on Luke’s Gospel. Meetings for next week, Sunday 11.30am in Church, Tuesday 10am in foyer, and 7.30pm at the Rectory. Official lists are available in the foyer—changes will be noted each week in these pages.
You are reminded of the forthcoming WORLD DAY OF PRAYER on Friday 1st March at 10.00am at Holy Innocents’ Church. France is the focus under the banner ‘I was a stranger and I welcomed me’ in a service prepared by French women.
HELPLINE
Part of being a Christian community is the support offered to each other in times of need. We offer short-term delivery of food where needed, local transport, phone calls, and other types of assistance. Call Stephanie Lloyd 8278 4260 and Lucinda Hale 8278 8814
POWERPOINT ROSTER –
Next Sunday Barb Capon or Trevor Tregenza
Following week Min Araki or Ron Keynes
READER AND INTERCESSOR ROSTER
Next Sunday Reader Iris D Intercessor Max A
Sunday after Reader John F Intercessor Ben L
SANCTUARY ROSTER
Next Sunday Flowers No flowers Brass Margaret Carruthers
Cleaning Group 2
The Commissioning Service of (Public) School Chaplains is to be held at St. John’s, Coro-mandel Valley at 10 am on Sunday 24th February. All are welcome to attend and support the new Chaplains.
Here are some various activities in Lent, to enable parishioners to contribute to the work of the ABM, the Anglican agency for overseas mission.
1. Making Palm Crosses. Palm crosses are distributed on Palm Sunday. Each year a group undertakes to make crosses from palm tree leaves. It is a tricky process, though quickly learnt, or re-learnt. All crosses in excess of those needed for distribution in the par-ish will be directed to the Auxiliary of the ABM in Adelaide. They will sell them to other par-ishes, the proceeds going to the ABM. In addition, we need a supply of palm fronds, in good condition. From each ‘good’ frond - clean, and not old and dry - about 30 or more crosses can be made. Help in supplying these will be welcome.
2 The Lenten Envelope Appeal In this annual appeal, all parishioners are invited to con-tribute weekly. Your contribution can be placed in a special envelope, which will be availa-ble on the first Sunday in Lent, and may be returned with your offering on Easter Day.
All of us can remember the work of the Anglican Board of Mission as a part of our Lenten discipline of prayer For more information, please contact Joan Durdin (8178 0704)
RONBLOG on today’s Gospel -
Even when I was young, I could never see how those temptations ever constituted the slightest challenge to Jesus, or what it would matter if He gave in to these. Then I stopped being so very literal and the reality struck me. The temptations of Jesus were severe and hugely significant tests of our Lord, in His selection of the nature of His leadership.
If ever you watch someone altruistically choose politics or somesuch as a career, intending to change the world, and then surrendering to the dishonesty and jiggerypokery, you will understand that enormity of the challenge. Each of the three tests represents differ-ent challenges, as Jesus sought ways of gaining a following and helping people to see what He was on about. They are also challenges to His perception of leadership, and this is some-thing so few people grasp. So let’s look at them one by one.
The first test was about turning stones into bread. People then, as now, would real-ize straight away the direction in which this test was taking Jesus. In an Empire that ruled people through their stomachs, (give them bread and circuses) Jesus knew, as you do, that lots of people will surrender their whole being on the chance of getting something for nothing, but aware people know how destructive that path really is. Small wonder that Jesus rejected that path! It would be far harder to go in the direction He knew He should, but He also knew that He would lose both integrity and credibility if He chose the easy way. (Dare to note that sin so often consists in choosing the easy way rather than the true and effective way.)
The second test was perhaps the most sinister. This falling down and worshipping Satan needs to be expressed in simple and straightforward terms. Jesus was challenged here to turn the truth into the lie, and the lie into the truth. Propaganda, spin and other names are given to this falsehood these days, but it remains THE LIE. Imagine the damage that would ensue had Jesus followed this path! You know the damage caused when leaders track this sort of way.
The third test was to throw Himself down from the Temple – or if you like to astound people by His capacity to do miracles. Few Christians realize that Jesus refused miracle as a means of gaining a following. (He often used them as teaching tools, or signs - - as John calls them in his Gospel.) This approach to people may titillate and lead them to ask for greater and more remarkable things. But there is small chance of miracles changing anything, and certainly not in the direction Jesus sought change in people.
I know of very few other leaders who remained true to what is important. And it is hugely important to realize that just as Jesus saw the need to operate that way, so do His people of every day and age!
Friday, February 8, 2013
Newsletter
Sunday 10th February, 2013
Last Sunday after Epiphany
WELCOME to Holy Innocents—we hope you enjoy this time of prayer as we reflect on Scripture together and celebrate the Eucharist. Breakfast is available in the Hall after the 8 am service and morning tea after the 10 am. All are welcome. Sunday School is back in action.
Collect for today
Almighty God, You have given us Your only Son to be for us both a sacrifice for sin and also an example of godly life; give us grace that we may always thankfully receive the benefits of His sacrifice, and also daily endeavour to follow the blessed steps of His most holy life; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Today’s Readings Last Sunday of Epiphany—Transfiguration
—read by Vanessa
Readings Exodus 34:29—35 and 2 Corinthians 3: 12—42
GOSPEL Luke 9: 26—36 (37-45)
Ash Wednesday 9.30am and 7.45pm Eucharist and Imposition of Ashes
PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE led by Warren
We pray for those in need: Ron Teague, Peter Little, Dorothy Furnival, the Swaby family , Dianne Cordes. Tommy Ferguson, Bob Arnold, Ann Daughtry, Pat Pater, Susan Daulby, Janet Phillips, Jan and Mollie, Eddy Klose, Allan Pressley, Robyn Keynes’ sister Pam ..
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - David & Barbara Corbett, Allan and Kate Jennings
YEAR’S MIND— Alice Moore (2010) Alfred Barber (2003) Arleen Charlick (2008) Walter Marston (2001) Anne Bills (2009)
PREPARATION FOR NEXT SUNDAY First Sunday in Lent
Readings: Deuteronomy 26:1-11 and Romans 10:4—13
GOSPEL Luke 4: 1—15
REGULAR GROUPS AND BOOKINGS -
PRAYER CIRCLE meets noon on the 2nd Tuesday each month at 36 Penno Parade North
BIBLE STUDY 10am Wednesdays at Pressley’s
THURSDAY 9.30am Eucharist 5.30pm Evening Prayer with Wendy
MOTHERS’ UNION - meets third Thursdays each month at 2.00pm—next meeting February 21st –Fr. Warren will celebrate the Eucharist with a Lenten focus, and a planning meeting will be held . Suggestions for speakers etc., please, - and a small plate of afternoon tea t o share. Margaret Pressley, (Group Leader)
WALKING CHURCH First Saturday of each month at 5.00pm at Belair National Park gates near railway station bridge.
Friday Morning HI Tea and Coffee is on again from 8.30am. Don’t miss the chance for a yarn
Anna Kelly is calling a meeting of people on the Sanctuary Roster for Sunday 17th February at 9.30am—all volunteers are asked to attend please.
Mary Vandepeer is planning the Shrove Tuesday Pancake evening, (13th Feb) and asks all who plan to attend to provide fillings for the pancakes that evening please. 6.00pm at the Church.
Someone lent Fr. Ron a large swag of old photos of Holy Innocents’ when the 20 year anniversary magazine of the move to this building was published. Since then, the person who lent them has not claimed them. Please catch up with Fr. Ron if you know who it was. Jocelyn Deane is sorting them out just at present.
Lenten Studies are to be held on Luke’s Gospel. Meetings for next week, Sunday 11.30am in Church, Tuesday 10am in foyer, and 7.30pm at the Rectory. Official lists are available in the foyer—changes will be noted each week in these pages.
You are reminded of the forthcoming WORLD DAY OF PRAYER on Friday 1st March at 10.00am at Holy Innocents’ Church. We are hosts to this event. You are encouraged to invite your friends to this event.
HELPLINE
Part of being a Christian community is the support offered to each other in times of need. We offer short-term delivery of food where needed, local transport, phone calls, and other types of assistance. Call Stephanie Lloyd 8278 4260 and Lucinda Hale 8278 8814
POWERPOINT ROSTER –
Next Sunday Joy Campbell or Craig Deane
Following week Barb Capon or Trevor Tregenza
READER AND INTERCESSOR ROSTER
Next Sunday Reader Eric D Intercessor Hal S-C
Sunday after Reader Iris D Intercessor Max A
SANCTUARY ROSTER
Next Sunday Flowers No flowers Brass Rosemary Conlon
Cleaning Cleaner
GENTLE REMINDER
Wendy M has been using Facebook to convey information from the parish on her page at Holy Innocents’ Anglican Parish Belair, and is obtaining increasing numbers of hits. It may be a little rude for me to report that my full notes on Sunday’s Readings are also posted on that page each week.
St Barnabas’ Theological College Commencement Monday 25 February 2013, 6.30 pm – St Peter’s Cathedral
Our theological college will celebrate the new academic year with its Commencement Service, This will include the presentation of prizes to several students to commemorate their success in theological studies. The Guest Preacher will be Dr Ben Myers, one of Australia’s leading young theologians. Following the evensong service, the Commencement Lecture will be held starting at 7.30pm.
The title of Dr Ben Myer’s talk is God and Other Strangers: Rowan Williams and Theology in the Public Square. Parishioners are welcome to attend the Service and/or Lecture. If you have any queries please telephone the College on 8340 0411.
Here are some various activities in Lent, to enable parishioners to contribute to the work of the ABM, the Anglican agency for overseas mission.
1. Making Palm Crosses.Palm crosses are distributed on Palm Sunday. Each year a group undertakes to make crosses from palm tree leaves. It is a tricky process, though quickly learnt, or re-learnt. All crosses in excess of those needed for distribution in the parish will be directed to the Auxiliary of the ABM in Adelaide. They will sell them to other parishes, the proceeds going to the ABM. In addition to some ‘makers’ of crosses, we need a supply of palm fronds, in good condition. From each ‘good’ frond - clean, and not old and dry - about 30 or more crosses can be made. Help in supplying these will be welcome.
2 The Lenten Envelope Appeal In this annual appeal, all parishioners are invited to contribute weekly. Your contribution can be placed in a special envelope, which will be available on the first Sunday in Lent, and may be returned with your offering on Easter Day.
All of us can remember the work of the Anglican Board of Mission as a part of our Lenten discipline of prayer For more information, please contact Joan Durdin (8178 0704)
RONBLOG on today’s Gospel - Transfiguration
Many years ago, I was driving back from a rather hectic and stressed Tuesday of visits and counselling in the next valley, drained, exhausted and wondering whether it might be wise to ring up the dozen or more folk who looked forward to the Bible Study Group in that parish. It was latish afternoon, sun dropping down in the west, and time of year not all that far off harvest. The lowering sun somehow caught the ripening wheat and the ttint brought tears to my eyes. It was such a beautiful sight that I stopped the car, and got out to drink in the vision there in front of me – acres and acres of golden wheat, slowly swaying in the slight breeze. Kids these days would call that ‘awesome,’ and so it was. After ten minutes of simply looking, it so refreshed me that any idea of cancelling the Study dissipated. When we all gathered that evenoing, I mentioned my very own transfiguration, and it was a lovely surprise to have other people report their own similar experiences. A transfiguration is an ordinary situation taking on an extraordinary value, quite invigorating and encouraging and strengthening aware people. And offering a huge challenge as well.
Neither of those stories are designed to get you all emotional; far from it. Rather it is simply an attempt to help see that more often than not, transfigurations are a remarkable yet constant revelation of something marvellous which emerges out of something quite unremarkably ordinary. Some people call such things as light-globe moments, eureka times, when out of the blue comes a chance at a learning curve. There is less point simply enjoying the moment than there is in moving in the direction such an experience points.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Newsletter
Sunday 3rd February, 2013
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
WELCOME to Holy Innocents—we hope you enjoy this time of prayer as we reflect on Scripture together and celebrate the Eucharist. Breakfast is available in the Hall after the 8 am service and morning tea after the 10 am. All are welcome. Sunday School is back in action today
Collect for today
Righteous God, You confound the world’s wisdom by giving Your blessing to the lowly and pure in heart; give us such a hunger and thirst for justice, and perseverance in striving for peace, that in all we do, the world may see the promise of Your kingdom which ahs been revealed in Jesus Christ our Lord, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever Amen
Today’s Readings Fourth Sunday after Epiphany read by David C
Readings: Jeremiah 1: 4—10 and Corinthians 13: 1—13
GOSPEL Luke 4: 21—30
PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE led by Mary V
We pray for those in need: Ron Teague, Peter Little, Dorothy Furnival, the Swaby family , Dianne Cordes. Tommy Ferguson, Bob Arnold, Ann Daughtry, Pat Pater, Susan Daulby, Janet Phillips, Jan and Mollie, Eddy Klose . Robyn Keynes’ sister Pam .
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Kira Eve Barber
HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Neal and Sharon Barber
YEAR’S MIND— Bette Tickle (2002) Michaerl Bingham (2005) Gordon Hannaford (1994) Shirley Burkitt (2003)
PREPARATION FOR NEXT SUNDAY Last Sunday of Epiphany—Transfiguration
Readings Exodus 34:29—35 and 2 Corinthians 3: 12—42
GOSPEL Luke 9: 26—36 (37-45)
REGULAR GROUPS AND BOOKINGS -
PRAYER CIRCLE meets noon on the 2nd Tuesday each month at 36 Penno Parade North
BIBLE STUDY 10am Wednesdays at Pressley’s
THURSDAY 9.30am Eucharist 5.30pm Evening Prayer with Wendy
MOTHERS’ UNION - meets third Thursdays each month at 2.00pm—next meeting February 21st
WALKING CHURCH First Saturday of each month at 5.00pm at Belair National Park gates near railway station bridge.
Friday Morning HI Tea and Coffee is on again from 8.30am. Don’t miss the chance for a yarn
Mary Vandepeer is planning the Shrove Tuesday event, and asks all who plan to attend to provide fillings for the pancakes that evening please.
Colin Wright, the Keynes’ son-in-law, Colin Wright, Ancient History teacher at TRAC, Wagga, discovered reference to the original and encouraged his class to recreate the mosaic shown on the front page. It was discovered recently in a yard in Britain—said to be of Jesus. Well, maybe.
You are reminded of the forthcoming WORLD DAY OF PRAYER on Friday 1st March at 10.00am at Holy Innocents’ Church. We are hosting the event, and all are encouraged to attend.
Warren is planning Lenten Studies with tentative arrangements being for Monday mornings at the Church and Tuesday evenings at the Rectory. More closer to the time.
HELPLINE
Part of being a Christian community is the support offered to each other in times of need. We offer short-term delivery of food where needed, local transport, phone calls, and other types of assistance. Call Stephanie Lloyd 8278 4260 and Lucinda Hale 8278 8814
POWERPOINT ROSTER –
Next Sunday Ron Keynes or Barb Capon
Following week Joy Campbell or Craig Deane
READER AND INTERCESSOR ROSTER
Next Sunday Reader Vanessa D Intercessor Warren
Sunday after Reader Eric D Intercessor Hal S-C
SANCTUARY ROSTER
Next Sunday Flowers Noelene Carter Brass Yvonne Caddy Cleaning Group 1
ADVANCE NOTICE
Parish Camp Friday 8 - Sunday 10 November 2013 at Pt Elliot Caravan Park
Powered site $33/night Units $115/night, Cabins $90/night For more details refer notice board in the hall or contact Wendy Morecroft awsc@internode.on.net 0400576364
St Barnabas’ Theological College Commencement
Monday 25 February 2013, 6.30 pm – St Peter’s Cathedral
Our theological college will celebrate the new academic year with its Commencement Service, commencing at 6.30 pm. This will include the presentation of prizes to several students to commemorate their success in theological studies. The Guest Preacher will be Dr Ben Myers, one of Australia’s leading young theologians. Following the evensong service, the Commencement Lecture will be held starting at 7.30pm.
The title of Dr Ben Myer’s talk is God and Other Strangers: Rowan Williams and Theology in the Public Square. Parishioners are welcome to attend the Service and/or Lecture.
If you have any queries please telephone the College on 8340 0411.
RONBLOG on today’s Epistle
What an Epistle – which used to be one of the best-known passages in Scripture. Paul’s panegyric on love. This surely is one of the greatest levellers of all time. Love. What a word that carries all the beauty and ugliness in English, because it is one word only. Greek has at least three words and the one used by Paul is, so I am led to believe, one that he dredged up from past desuetude. Long out of use, Paul decided that the Divine love needed a word all of its own and here it is. Agape. . (And even this word has been abused in this State in recent years.) This Divine love has been defined as ‘love that is offered and persists not because of who the loved person is but in spite of who that person is.’ Most of us respond with love to love, but here is something several steps ahead of it. God’s sort of love, as Paul conveys it that reaches out to the unloved.
What really gives the rest of us the willies is that Paul expressed the challenge for Christians to express that sort of love to others. Whilst one may say that it is better to aim for the impossible, than to aim at nothing and hit it, the scenario remains a huge challenge. Even heading in such a direction can be a huge benefit to people around us.
And if you go on to think about it, there lies the direction and challenge of Epiphany for Christian people today. This is not just going the second mile, but the third and the fourth. And in a day and age so bereft of such love, the impact will be greater, will it not?
Friday, January 25, 2013
Newsletter
Sunday 27th January, 2013
Third Sunday after Epiphany
WELCOME to Holy Innocents—we hope you enjoy this time of prayer as we reflect on Scripture together and celebrate the Eucharist. Breakfast is available in the Hall after the 8 am service and morning tea after the 10 am. All are welcome. Sunday School will be back in action next Sunday
Collect for today
Life-giving God, Who sent Your Son Jesus to proclaim Your kingdom, and to teach with authority; anoint us with Your Spirit, that we too may bring good news to the poor, bind up the broken-hearted, and proclaim liberty to the captives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen
Today’s Readings Third Sunday after Epiphany read by Clare B
Readings Nehemiah 8: 1 – 3, 5-6, 8-10 and 1 Corinthians 12: 12 – 31
GOSPEL Luke 4: 14 - 21
PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE led by Sue D-T
We pray for those in need: Ron Teague, Peter Little, Dorothy Furnival, the Swaby family , Dianne Cordes. Tommy Ferguson, Bob Arnold, Ann Daughtry, Pat Pater, Susan Daulby, Janet Phillips, Jan and Mollie, Eddy Klose (prostate ca) . Robyn Keynes’ older sister Pam ..
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Barbara Rathbone, Jane Raymond, Andrew Kelly, Lucy Thomas, Kirby Huffa
HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Lucinda and David Hale Rosemary and Sean Conlon
YEAR’S MIND—
PREPARATION FOR NEXT SUNDAY Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
Readings: Jeremiah 1: 4—10 and 1 Corinthians 13: 1—13
GOSPEL Luke 4: 21—30
REGULAR GROUPS AND BOOKINGS - most activities do not start till February
PRAYER CIRCLE meets noon on the 2nd Tuesday each month at 36 Penno Parade North
BIBLE STUDY 10am Wednesdays at Pressley’s
THURSDAY 9.30am Eucharist 5.30pm Evening Prayer with Wendy
MOTHERS’ UNION - meets third Thursdays each month at 2.00pm—next meeting February 21st
WALKING CHURCH First Saturday of each month at 5.00pm at Belair National Park gates near railway station bridge. Next Saturday February 2nd is the next event.
Friday Morning HI Tea and Coffee is on again from 8.30am. Don’t miss the chance for a yarn
Mary Vandepeer is planning the Shrove Tuesday event, and asks for volunteers for cooking the pancakes that evening. Please contact Mary V herself, or Jan Tregenza.
You are reminded of the forthcoming WORLD DAY OF PRAYER on Friday 1st March. The Theme for the day is Í was a stranger and you took me in. More information will be provided as the day draws closer…..
Spies tell us that the Sweets Senior are now great-grandparents, and Jane’s daughter has provided the joy!
HELPLINE
Part of being a Christian community is the support offered to each other in times of need. We offer short-term delivery of food where needed, local transport, phone calls, and other types of assistance. Call Stephanie Lloyd 8278 4260 and Lucinda Hale 8278 8814
POWERPOINT ROSTER –
Next Sunday Don Caddy or Cynthia Macintosh
Following week Ron Keynes or Barb Capon
READER AND INTERCESSOR ROSTER
Next Sunday Reader David C Intercessor Mary V
Sunday after Reader Vanessa D Intercessor Warren
SANCTUARY ROSTER
Next Sunday Flowers Iris Downes Brass Caroline & Sid Sweet
Cleaning Cleaner
ADVANCE NOTICE
Parish Camp Friday 8 - Sunday 10 November 2013 at Pt Elliot Caravan Park
Powered site $33/night Units $115/night, Cabins $90/night For more details refer notice board in the hall or contact Wendy Morecroft awsc@internode.on.net 0400576364
RONBLOG on today’s Readings
All who oppose the Faith, discarding it as superstition, would do well to give some time to stop and think about this Gospel reading. In fact, it seems to me to demand attention to all who consider the choice of which way to head in life..
What is even more fascinating to me is the fact that six centuries before Christ, the prophet Isaiah was pondering what God was pointing people to at the time of the devastating Exile in Babylon when all seemed totally lost. Sadly I discover from Jewish friends that they see nothing at all interesting in Isaiah’s Servant Songs, and I dare to wonder if that is because they reject anything that tastes of Jesus. I hope I am quite wrong.
On the other hand, Christians themselves tend to miss rather too much of the point of those same Songs. Always ready to see its anticipation of Jesus, they fail to see further. The reason they point to Jesus (from where we sit) is because of this passage where Jesus makes that connection so strongly. But look more deeply – and see that (a) the entire Judaic/Christian Faith is there to offer a staggering answer to the human dilemma (who are we and what are we here for,) and (b) here lies the answer to all that Genesis 3 and 4 (and onwards) underlines.
If one looks for the answer to and remedy for human evil, here it is, ‘writ large and clear,’ and is the primary function of the Gospel. The answer to human evil is NOT to be punitive, but redemptive. The entire process of reconciliation and restoration is long and costly, and the Divine answer to evil is not Hell, but lies where the Cross of Christ points. This has all to do with finding paths towards reconciliation and redemption of relationships.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Newsletter
Sunday 20th January, 2013
Second Sunday after Epiphany
Welcome to Asher and Thomas
WELCOME to Holy Innocents—we hope you enjoy this time of prayer as we reflect on Scripture together and celebrate the Eucharist. Breakfast is available in the Hall after the 8 am service and morning tea after the 10 am. All are welcome.
Collect for today
Bountiful God, Whose Son revealed His glory at Cana of Galilee, help us to believe and obey so that, as our Saviour promised, we may be filled with the wine of new life, and show forth His joy and love, Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God now and for ever. Amen
Today’s Readings Epiphany II read by Araki family
Readings: Isaiah 62: 1—5 and 1 Corinthians 12: 1– 11
GOSPEL John 2: 1—11
PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE led by Wendy M
We pray for those in need: Ron Teague, Peter Little, Dorothy Furnival, the Swaby family , Dianne Cordes. Tommy Ferguson, Bob Arnold, Ann Daughtry, Pat Pater, Susan Daulby, Janet Phillips,, Jan and Mollie, Eddy Klose (prostate ca) Hal Shaw-Calverley,. Robyn Keynes’ older sister Pam..
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Anthony Kelly, Tom Araki
HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Anthony and Alysia Kelly
YEAR’S MIND— Valerie Hall (2009) George Forward (1996) George McAuliffe (1990) Bess Newland (2013)
PREPARATION FOR NEXT SUNDAY Third Sunday after Epiphany
Readings Nehemiah 8: 1 – 3, 5-6, 8-10 and 1 Corinthians 12: 12 – 31
GOSPEL Luke 4: 14 - 21
REGULAR GROUPS AND BOOKINGS - some activities do not start till February
PRAYER CIRCLE meets noon on the 2nd Tuesday each month at 36 Penno Parade North
BIBLE STUDY 10am Wednesdays at Pressley’s
THURSDAY 9.30am Eucharist 5.30pm Evening Prayer with Wendy
MOTHERS’ UNION - meets third Thursdays each month at 2.00pm—next meeting February
WALKING CHURCH First Saturday of each month at 5.00pm at Belair National Park gates near railway station bridge. Again, not till February 2nd
Friday Morning HI Tea and Coffee is on again from 8.30am. Don’t miss the chance for a yarn
HELPLINE
Part of being a Christian community is the support offered to each other in times of need. We offer short-term delivery of food where needed, local transport, phone calls, and other types of assistance. Call Stephanie Lloyd 8278 4260 and Lucinda Hale 8278 8814
Should anyone wish to send support to Tassie bushfire-victims , the Anglican Diocese of Tasmania offers the following opportunities. Contact Fr. Ron is you require further information:
1. Direct deposit into the bank account for Anglican Health and Welfare
BSB: 067-000 Account Number: 10720017 Reference: Bushfire (plus surname)
Please send an email to finance@anglicantas.org.au letting us know of your donation, including your name and address, so that a tax-deductible receipt can be sent to you.
2. Cheque made out to Anglican Health and Welfare and sent to GPO Box 748, Hobart TAS 7001. Be sure to include your name and address so that a tax-deductible receipt can be sent to you. OR
3. Online credit card donations can be made through our Anglicare website: http:// www.anglicare-tas.org.au/BeInvolved/Donate.aspx . A receipt for tax deductible donations will be mailed out if the caller leaves their mailing address
POWERPOINT ROSTER –
Next Sunday Ron Keynes or Joy Campbell
Following week Don Caddy or Cynthia Macintosh
READER AND INTERCESSOR ROSTER
Next Sunday Reader Clare D Intercessor Sue D-T
Sunday after Reader David C Intercessor Mary V
SANCTUARY ROSTER
Next Sunday Flowers Marilyn Little Brass Joan D Cleaning Group 5
RONBLOG on today’s Readings
If some people find this story of water into wine somewhat hard to swallow, it may help to realize the extent to which Biblical stories are often rather more imaginative than real. If that bothers you, please do see that humans often vary the facts to suit the ‘lesson’ without a single blush. The story of Jonah and the whale is an instance, for no author even then or ever after expected anyone to believe that a person could survive in the belly of a great fish: water would get them before digestive juices. And if you remain somewhat shocked, how does the Gallipoli legend strike you? A sound defeat is still trumpetted as the birthplace of our nation. The reality that we celebrate, however, remains untouched does it not!
So what have we done with the Faith, and the expression of it? This story points to an awful lot of wine, so get the implication that much of the fun seems to have been removed from the Faith, from worship and from life. There, surely, lies an area where we need to be having a long hard look to change things. Mind you, such a change needs to have solid ground underneath it. The Faith is not some sort of ‘feel good’ panacea, but that with which life can be laced with a joy and gladness that includes having one’s feet very firmly on the ground.
This Faith, as Scripture underlines and worship should also, has far more to do with responding to the human dilemma brought about by what we call sin. That response is a gentle one of meeting human failure, not with judgement but with a way of reconciliation. It contains all the beneficial elements in life of compassion and love, but also with justice and truth. It may sound all a little impotent and low-key, but the reality of outcomes can be far more creative and productive. And it is designed to be expressed here, not waiting for some future Nirvana, but right now.
One need look only to the most recent headlines in papers or on TV, to be reminded of our terribly human capacity to head off into directions diametrically opposite – revenge and retaliation, for instance, and then wonder why the problems and conflicts escalate. Perhaps the greatest tragedy is that so-called Christian democracies call out for retaliation! Would you like me to list the battlefields?
What strikes me as most odd here in our own country is that the cynical disregard of the Christian ethic leaves many of our leaders propounding the very policies that do nothing but escalate the problems rather than alleviate them. Truth of course is the first casualty, which means fairness drops right off the radar. So much of our government direction is ego-driven, having nothing to do with the solution of issues.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Newsletter
Sunday 13th January, 2013
Baptism of our Lord
WELCOME to Holy Innocents—we hope you enjoy this time of prayer as we reflect on Scripture together and celebrate the Eucharist. Breakfast is available in the Hall after the 8 am service and morning tea after the 10 am. All are welcome.
Collect for today
Spirit of energy and change, in Whose power Jesus was anointed to be the hope of the nations; be poured out also upon us, without reserve or distinction, that we may have confidence and strength to implant justice on the earth, through Jesus Christ our Lord., Amen
Today’s Readings The Baptism of our Lord read by Max A
Readings Isaiah 43: 1—7 and Acts 8: 14—17
GOSPEL Luke 3:15—22
PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE led by Wendy M
We pray for those in need: Ron Teague, Peter Little, Dorothy Furnival, the Swaby family , Dianne Cordes. Tommy Ferguson, Bob Arnold, Ann Daughtry, Pat Pater, Susan Daulby, Janet Phillips, recovering from pneumonia, Jan and Mollie, Hal Shaw-Calverley,. Robyn Keynes’ older sister Pam..
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Anthony Kelly, Tom Araki
HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Anthony and Alysia Kelly
YEAR’S MIND— Valerie Hall (2009) George Forward (1996) George McAuliffe (1990)
PREPARATION FOR NEXT SUNDAY Epiphany II
Readings: Isaiah 62: 1—5 and 1 Corinthians 12: 1– 11
GOSPEL John 2: 1—11
REGULAR GROUPS AND BOOKINGS - some activities do not start till February
PRAYER CIRCLE meets noon on the 2nd Tuesday each month at 36 Penno Parade North
BIBLE STUDY 10am Wednesdays at Pressley’s
THURSDAY 9.30am Eucharist 5.30pm Evening Prayer with Wendy
YOUNG PEOPLE’S GROUP 5pm every second Sunday 14th at Daughtry’s home
MOTHERS’ UNION - meets third Thursdays each month at 2.00pm—next meeting February
WALKING CHURCH First Saturday of each month at 5.00pm at Belair National Park gates near railway station bridge. Again, not till February 2nd
HELPLINE
Part of being a Christian community is the support offered to each other in times of need. We offer short-term delivery of food where needed, local transport, phone calls, and other types of assistance. Call Stephanie Lloyd 8278 4260 and Lucinda Hale 8278 8814
Should anyone wish to send support to Tassie bushfire-victims, the Anglican Diocese of Tasmania offers the following opportunities. Contact Fr. Ron if you require further information:
1. Direct deposit into the bank account for Anglican Health and Welfare
BSB: 067-000 Account Number: 10720017 Reference: Bushfire (plus surname)
Please send an email to finance@anglicantas.org.au letting us know of your donation, including your name and address, so that a tax-deductible receipt can be sent to you.
2. Cheque made out to Anglican Health and Welfare and sent to GPO Box 748, Hobart TAS 7001. Be sure to include your name and address so that a tax-deductible receipt can be sent to you. OR
3. Online credit card donations can be made through our Anglicare website: http://www.anglicare-s.org.au/BeInvolved/Donate.aspx . A receipt for tax deductible donations will be mailed out if the caller leaves their mailing address
POWERPOINT ROSTER –
Next Sunday Cynthia Macintosh or Don Caddy
Following week Ron Keynes or Joy Campbell
READER AND INTERCESSOR ROSTER
Next Sunday Reader Arakis Intercessor Ben L
Sunday after Reader `Clare D Intercessor Sue D-T
SANCTUARY ROSTER
Next Sunday Flowers Baines Brass Bonney T Cleaning Cleaner
SPECIAL N.B. A small triptych of the Nativity was left in the Germein Room. Owner please collect from foyer. Also a small wooden cross has been taken from the Germein Room, used for Sunday School for 3 years. If anyone has seen it, please let Robyn Keynes know.
RONBLOG on today’s Readings—Baptism
The indisputable facts are that from early Jewry, the Faith was ringed and supported by a large series of covenants: a close look at Genesis on will underline that situation, although it has to be said that some of those covenants take some following, and understanding. Still, one needs to see them in the light of what was then current thinking and theology.
Also it needs to be seen quite clearly that the Biblical covenants were not to be seen as agreements between two equals, God and people, but it is ever God Who set the agenda, and humans are left with the choice of saying yes or no to the offer. Start off with the clear proposition that baptism in NOT a name-giving ceremony. It is the offer to people to become part of the covenant family, and that is offered to youngsters long before they have a clue of what is going on. On offer is the challenge to be part of the ‘People of God,’ in OT terms, Israel and in NT terms, the Church. I feel rather certain that the Jews had the clearest and best idea: that the Faith was always imparted within the family rather than Temple or synagogue. (I am happy to be corrected if this is not so.) The Faith of Israel was very much the expression of family which is where youngsters learn all aspects of their Faith and life.
There are not many people, these days, who begin to see the Biblical reality. Not only has the Faith become a ‘personal and private matter,’ but the very idea of covenant and community is alien to their thoughts and aspirations. The great sadness of all that shows up in so many other areas of life and community, the latter being seen as almost insignificant to many. We have neighbours in this town who actually turn their back rather than even greet those around them, would you believe? After many years in rural and remote areas, this is an aspect of city life with which I can do without!!!!!
Friday, January 4, 2013
Newsletter
Sunday 6th January, 2013
Epiphany
WELCOME to Holy Innocents—we hope you enjoy this time of prayer as we reflect on Scripture together and celebrate the Eucharist. Breakfast is available in the Hall after the 8 am service and morning tea after the 10 am. All are welcome.
Collect for the Epiphany
Eternal God, Who by a star led the Magi to the worship of Your Son; guide the nations of the earth by Your light, that the whole world may see Your glory, through Jesus Christ Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God now and for ever Amen
Today’s Readings Epi8phany read by Mary V
Readings Isaiah 60: 1—6 and Ephesians 3: 1—12
GOSPEL Matthew 2: 1—12
PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE
We pray for those in need: Ron Teague, Peter Little, Dorothy Furnival, the Swaby family , Dianne Cordes. Tommy Ferguson, Bob Arnold, Ann Daughtry, Pat Pater, Susan Daulby, Janet Phillips. Recovering from pneumonia, Jan and Mollie Hal Shaw-Calverley has had surgery. Robyn Keynes’ older sister Pam.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Joyce and Bob Arnold, Mary and Stuart Vandepeer
YEAR’S MIND— Rita Shiack (2006)
PREPARATION FOR NEXT SUNDAY The Baptism of our Lord
Readings Isaiah 43: 1—7 and Acts 8: 14—17
GOSPEL Luke 3:15—22
HELPLINE
Part of being a Christian community is the support offered to each other in times of need. We offer short-term delivery of food where needed, local transport, phone calls, and other types of assistance. Call Stephanie Lloyd 8278 4260 and Lucinda Hale 8278 8814
POWERPOINT ROSTER –
Next Sunday Min Araki or Ron Keynes
Following week Cynthia Macintosh or Don Caddy
READER AND INTERCESSOR ROSTER
Next Sunday Reader Max A Intercessor Wendy M
Sunday after Reader Arakis Intercessor Ben L
SANCTUARY ROSTER
Next Sunday Flowers Jan T Brass Margaret C Cleaning Group 4
SPECIAL N.B. A small triptych of the Nativity was left in the Germein Room. Owner please collect from foyer. Also a small wooden cross has been taken from the Germein Room, used for Sunday School for 3 years. If anyone has seen it, please let Robyn Keynes know.
The Hall will be unavailable to all from tomorrow until the following Tuesday. The floor is being resurfaced.
CHAPEL SERVICES AT FLINDERS MEDICAL CENTRE
Holy Innocents' parish is rostered to help on four occasions each year. We visit patients in the wards and take those who are able, to the service in the chapel at 11am. We also make a list of people who would like us to pray for them during the service.
The dates for 2013 are: 13th January, 14th April, 14th July, 13th October
Helpers are asked to be at the chapel by 10am. If anyone would like to be part of this worthwhile and rewarding ministry, please speak to me or phone me on 8278 2837. Jean Fordham.
RONBLOG on today’s Reading s
In a first century world of Judaism, there really was nobody other than ‘us’ who mattered a damn to God. “”Chosen people’’ tend to look no further than their own parameters so Judaism was for Jews, full stop, Amen! God had no other interests—so they thought.
All that was in spite of centuries of OT Prophets who pointed to a rather wider view, no one seemed to take a lot of notice. You will be aware that, even after the Resurrection, Peter was still hung up by the food laws in spite of being a ‘bush’ Jew. And then there was the business in Acts 15 as to whether non-Jews should have any part in the new movement.
Magi! I remember my shock and horror when – after having called them the ‘Wise Men from the East’ for decades, the Greek made it quite clear that these were following the horoscope! Talk about horror! That whole business was anathema to the Christian, some of whom were fearful of the power of the occult! But here they were, the Wise Men, Magi, magicians, however few or many there were, with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. They seemed to understand more of what was going on with the birth of Jesus than even the Jews themselves. And that is really shocking. Gold, frankincense, myrrh. King and God and sacrifice .....
That is the shock-horror of Epiphany. Here was a group of people searching for the truth who found it, ... and the Chosen People had to come to terms with that awful fact. There were no ‘God-secrets,’ for the truth has always been available to genuine seekers after it, wherever and whoever they are. And the People of God have to recognize that and respond to it positively .
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