Greetings,

We are now feeling settled in Warragul, thanks to the very warm and generous welcome we have and are still receiving. Our first two months have been rather busy, with the move and then Easter. However we are now beyond even Pentecost and we settle into the “ordinary” weeks of the Christian year. With the emotional journey and celebrations over, we are free to focus on the regular living as the people of God in all our every day activities.

The Bible passages for this season remind us that discipleship involves faith filled living which, is about hearing and doing the word. Our Pastoral Care Training reminds us that we are to listen, “to listen is to care”, to each other, to the world and to God. Have you noticed that you have two ears and only one mouth? We listen and then we speak and act.

The Warragul Congregational Life Task Group is developing a support project for overseas mission that will involve the whole congregation. They are also planning events for the opening of the new church; events that will attract not only our own members, but also those living in the surrounding areas.

More than twenty people have registered for the Meet and Eat program and should be starting their meals soon. For each meal other people are to be invited for that meal. If you are invited I trust you will be gracious enough to respond positively so that we can all gain from the time of fellowship over the meal.

I am encouraged by the quality and commitment of the leaders and teams involved in the administration and care of the congregation, in The Diner, the many areas of children’s ministry and youth work. The values and sensitivity of our young people is to be applauded.

One area of concern for us is to find the right person to act as Chairperson of the Kindergarten. This person needs to be the minister or minister’s designate. Ruth has needed to retire and we thank her for her strong and caring manner is this role. Please pray for the “right” person to be brought forward for this important task.

The Building Committee have been working very hard with the architect and have now gone to tender, an exciting stage to be at. We are truly blessed with the ability and diligence of the members of the committee.

Some are away on holidays and some are leaving soon. We pray for safe travel and a rewarding time.

Barb and I would like to thank you all for your ready welcome and acceptance of us into your life.

Yours in Christ,

Chris