Campbelltown Uniting Church SA in Campbelltown, South Australia, Australia | Religious organisation

Campbelltown Uniting Church SA

Locality: Campbelltown, South Australia, Australia

Phone: +61 8 8336 4731

Address: 607 Lower North East Road 5074 Campbelltown, SA, Australia

Website: http://campbelltown.unitingchurchsa.org.au/

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25.01.2022 *** Important Letter from the General Secretary *** Good morning, Last Friday, Scott Morrison launched the Australian Governments 3 step plan towards a COVID-fr...ee country. South Australian Premier, Steven Marshall then held a press conference on the same day to address the decisions of the National Cabinet and how they will impact South Australian communities. The South Australian 3 step roadmap has brought about a lift in some rules relating to worship and church gatherings but still limits a large amount of church activities. Please read the advice given by the General Secretary to understand what these are and what this means for you and your church. UPDATE: The letter was reissued today Wednesday 13 May 20: http://createsend.com/t/j-A91E0DF1A4C99CDD2540EF23F30FEDED

25.01.2022 Nathan C. Schaeffer writes: At the close of life, the question will not be: "How much have you gotten?" but "How much have you given?" Not "How much have you won?" but "How much have you done?" Not "How much have you saved?" but "How much have you sacrificed?" It will be "How much have you loved and served," not "How much were you honoured?"... Jesus and his disciples went north for a few days, they went away from the bustling crowds demanding Jesus attention and the arguments with the religious leaders. During this mini-break Jesus asked his close followers what people were saying about him, who do they think I am? A few titles were bandied about and then Peter, the lead disciple, got it right: you are the long promised and hoped for Messiah. Next Jesus shocked the disciples by telling them that he would soon begin an important journey, a journey into Jerusalem, a journey towards suffering and death. The disciples are shocked and worried, this was not what they expected. They knew Jesus as a miracle worker and as a preacher of hope and a divine kingdom. His following is growing, yes there have been some tensions, but he is growing in popularity, why risk all this by going to Jerusalem? What the disciples struggle to comprehend is that Jesus life and ministry reflect the promises of the kingdom of God generosity, kindness, mercy, service and love, Jesus is willing to lose his life for love, for his love of people and the world.

24.01.2022 There's a Spanish story of a father and son who had become estranged. The son ran away, and the father set off to find him. He searched for months to no avail. Finally, in a last desperate effort to find him, the father put an ad in a Madrid newspaper. The ad read: Dear Paco, meet me in front of this newspaper office at noon on Saturday. All is forgiven. I love you. Your Father. On Saturday 800 Pacos showed up, looking for forgiveness and love from their fathers. We live in... a world where many relationships are strained, hurtful words and actions, strongly held opinions and issues of power and freedom all lead to strained relationships. Forgiveness not necessarily forgetting) past hurts can help heal relationships and individuals. But it is not always easy to forgive those who have betrayed or hurt us. Jesus told a parable about forgiveness in response to a question about how often we should forgive those who hurt us. The parable was about a slave who owed the king an enormous amount of money, so much money he would never be able to pay it back within his lifetime. The slave begged for mercy and the king forgave the debt. The slave left the royal court and immediately bumped into another slave who owed him money, he demanded payment and refused to show mercy. How could the first slave be so mean spirited when he had been treated so generously and graciously? He had not truly accepted his own forgiveness; he had not allowed the grace of God to penetrate his being. When we know ourselves to be forgiven, loved and free we are able to forgive (not necessarily forget) those who betray or hurt us.

24.01.2022 Jesus told lots of stories, in those stories he used examples of everyday experiences to illustrate his teaching about the promised kingdom of heaven. Jesus ministry and mission were focused on telling people, and demonstrating, that the kingdom of heaven that time and place of mercy and reconciliation, of healing and wholeness, of justice and peace - was breaking into the world. Jesus also taught his followers that they each have a part to play in creating this kingdom l...ike no other. He told a story about a mustard seed, a tiny seed that when planted and nurtured would grow into a mighty tree that would provide food, shelter, and shade. He spoke about yeast, a small organism that when used properly and added to four makes sustaining bread. Desmond Tutu writes: Do your little bit of good where you are, its those little bits of good that put together overwhelm the world. To illustrate the value of the kingdom of heaven in transforming lives, Jesus told two stories about treasure. In one a worker stumbles across the treasure while working in a field, he sells up everything to buy the field so he can always be part of the kingdom. In the second story a merchant is searching for treasure, when he finds it he also sells his possessions to access the kingdom. The two men oriented their lives to the kingdom, making following in Jesus way their priority.

24.01.2022 A prayer for #NAIDOC2020 by our Assembly Covenanting Convenor Stuart McMillan. You may like to use this in your worship this weekend or share one of your own. #AlwaysWasAlwaysWillBe

23.01.2022 It is a universal truth that we all have days of struggle and weariness, days when we feel exhausted or full of despair. People have many strategies for getting through such days, looking after their physical needs, talking things through with someone, praying or smelling the proverbial roses. There are times when a word or a phrase comes to us, when a small shy truth arrives and we slowly, carefully emerge into a new day, with a renewed sense of purpose and passion. Paul wr...ote many letters to the young churches, in these letters we find many ‘truths’ that were written to encourage, and sometimes correct, the beliefs and practices of the members. In Paul’s second letter to the church in Corinth, he acknowledged the weariness of the people and the challenges they faced as disciples, he then offered words of encouragement, reminding all believers that they do not engage in discipleship alone, that believers are part of God’s church and mission, and further that the light of Christ will always shine in the darkness. Sometimes that light will shine bright like a beacon, or a sweeping searchlight; at times the light will break through like the rays of the dawning sun. Signs of light may appear like that of a flickering candle. It is a truth that the light of Christ will always shine, even on the days when we feel exhausted or full of despair.

23.01.2022 Forty-three years ago, the Uniting Church came into being, three denominations came together to form a uniquely Australian Church. At the time there was great excitement, celebrations were held across the nation and the church felt confident about its place in society. A Statement to the Nation was released with the expectation that governments and leaders in other sectors would read it and take notice. Fast forward to now, it feels as if the church has been pushed to the e...dge of society, as different levels of government release plans for easing restrictions, places of worship barely rate a mention. We know that our pews are not full, many of our sports clubs have disappeared and when we speak to governments and leaders, we are but one voice amongst many. The early church was small and were marginalised, the religious and political authorities felt threatened by the radical message of inclusion, equality and justice. When the gospel according to Matthew was compiled the author remembered and included sayings from Jesus about being and feeling confident as followers of Jesus. He told his followers Do not be afraid, he used the example of Gods great care and attention to even a little sparrow, and told his followers how much more God cares for the sons and daughters of God.

22.01.2022 The Sunday School recently explored the story of the paralysed man being lowered through the roof to see Jesus. These are their models of the scene.

22.01.2022 The Little Free Pantry has been restored, thank you to John and Nick for installing it.

22.01.2022 This is a helpful guide to what the resumption of gathered worship will look and feel like at our place.

21.01.2022 Dont know why theres no sun up in the sky Stormy weather Since my man and I aint together Keeps rainin all the time Life is bare, gloom and misery everywhere... Stormy weather (Harold Arlen, Stormy Weather) 2020 has been a year of storm weather with bushfires and floods, and a pandemic These environmental challenges have led to economic and emotional challenges, many are feeling caught up in a storm, buffeted and battered by forces beyond our control. After Jesus had facilitated the feeding of the multitudes, using a bit of bread and a small amount of fish, he really needed some alone time. He sent the disciples away in a boat to go to the other side, and he had a little rest, and spent some time in prayer. During the night a storm rolled in, the disciples were still in the boat and they were afraid. Then a strange thing happened, through the waves and the rain a figure was walking across the water towards the disciples, they were now even more frightened. The figure came closer and spoke to the frightened men, it was Jesus, he declared Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid Jesus calmed the storm and got into the boat with the disciples. Jesus comes to us in times of stormy weather speaking, comforting and getting into the boat with his followers.

20.01.2022 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path writes the psalmist. We have all known times of confusion, fear and darkness in our lives, when we have not been sure which direction to take, or what course of action would be most beneficial. Sometimes there seems to be no other option but to sit with the sadness and pain, to make no decisions and to simply wait for a glimmer of hope or a new direction to emerge. The poet knows about these feelings of sitting in darkne...ss, waiting, hoping and wondering about the future. He acknowledges the feelings of confusion and fear and tells his readers and hearers that we can find a path, a well-lit path, when we follow Gods ways, when we read Gods word, when we pray to God for guidance and mercy and when we immerse ourselves in the community of the people of God. The psalmist encourages the people of God to seek out the light of God, to always be looking for moments of healing and hope, of community and renewal. We can feel we are living in darkness, but Gods light has always shone in our world, in grand and small ways and places and will continue to shine.

20.01.2022 Thank you to the Campbelltown Uniting Church for sending these flowers East Marden Primary today, thanking us for the work we have done during the recent COVID19 times. They are very much appreciated by the staff.

19.01.2022 Theres a Spanish story of a father and son who had become estranged. The son ran away, and the father set off to find him. He searched for months to no avail. Finally, in a last desperate effort to find him, the father put an ad in a Madrid newspaper. The ad read: Dear Paco, meet me in front of this newspaper office at noon on Saturday. All is forgiven. I love you. Your Father. On Saturday 800 Pacos showed up, looking for forgiveness and love from their fathers. We live in... a world where many relationships are strained, hurtful words and actions, strongly held opinions and issues of power and freedom all lead to strained relationships. Forgiveness not necessarily forgetting) past hurts can help heal relationships and individuals. But it is not always easy to forgive those who have betrayed or hurt us. Jesus told a parable about forgiveness in response to a question about how often we should forgive those who hurt us. The parable was about a slave who owed the king an enormous amount of money, so much money he would never be able to pay it back within his lifetime. The slave begged for mercy and the king forgave the debt. The slave left the royal court and immediately bumped into another slave who owed him money, he demanded payment and refused to show mercy. How could the first slave be so mean spirited when he had been treated so generously and graciously? He had not truly accepted his own forgiveness; he had not allowed the grace of God to penetrate his being. When we know ourselves to be forgiven, loved and free we are able to forgive (not necessarily forget) those who betray or hurt us.

17.01.2022 There are days when the darkness threatens to overwhelm, when the fear and anxiety reaches a peak, when the diagnosis is not great, when the pain and grief of loss is raw. ... Israel in exile endured times of deep despair, times when they felt abandoned by God and had no hope of returning home and being restored. The prophet Isaiah spoke to the people, arise and shine, because God is sending light into your darkness, God’s glory will bring peace and hope. Arise, shine, because you have confidence that you are not alone, you have not been forgotten and you will know peace and reconciliation. The people of Israel need to look for the signs of hope, to seek out the slivers of light breaking through. And when they find the light they will in turn become radiant, and their radiance will bear witness to their God, their God who brings light into a darkened world.

17.01.2022 Cold Chisel sang: Standing on the outside looking in Its an evocative lyric, it calls to mind a child staring though the window of a lolly shop, a person sitting alone at a party or a refugee pushed to the edge of society by government policy. The record of Jesus life and ministry is full of stories about him drawing people from the outside to the centre, he healed the marginalised and ate meals with suspect characters. But there is one story about Jesus that reveals a dif...ferent side of him, a desperate mother of a demon possessed child approached Jesus and asked for help. Jesus ignored her, but she persisted, Jesus was rude to her, but she persisted. Jesus allowed racial hatred between Jews and Gentiles to come between him and the woman. The worried mother bear would not be put off, she knelt in front of Jesus, PLEASE help me. Jesus saw in the woman a deep faith and trust in his ability to heal and restore, and her daughter was saved. He was moved with compassion by this outsider who had been looking in, through this interaction they were both blessed.

17.01.2022 Covid19 is still affecting nearly every part of our lives and there is no clarity about when and how a new normal will evolve. In the midst of such times it ...is more important than ever we care for ourselves so that we can care for each other. Rev Wendy Prior, Supply Chaplaincy Manager and member of Wimala Pastoral Relations Committee, wrote today the following Franciscan Blessing reminds me often that I need to care for myself so that I can be a blessing to others. May it also encourage you to bless others. May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships, so that you may live deep within your heart. May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression and exploitation of people, so that you may work for justice, freedom and peace. May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation, and war, so that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and turn their pain to joy. And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen.

17.01.2022 Every news bulletin and every conversation at the moment seems to include information, discussion and opinions about the coronavirus pandemic. We are all caught up in this pandemic and it affects many aspects of our lives, so it is not surprising that it is a constant talking point. There are many thoughts and opinions on the way forward, but there are many unknowns with this virus, the health officials and political leaders are constantly considering their options and the be...st strategies for keeping people and communities safe, healthy and functioning. Jesus told a parable about the people of his own time, about a group of children who could not agree on which game to play. He was making a comment on the strongly held and divergent, opinions about himself and John the Baptist, who were both sharing the good news of the Kingdom of God. These strong opinions were expressed by people who considered themselves intelligent and who had some status in the community. Jesus followed his parable with a prayer for the infants, a prayer of thanks for their innocence and openness to learning, change and to discovering the depths of faith and discipleship. As followers of Jesus we should keep our hearts and minds open to learning more about God and ourselves, to become people of deep faith and world changing discipleship.

16.01.2022 Pentecost is a day of great celebration in the church. It is an opportunity to decorate the church with symbols of rushing winds and the fire of the Spirit. It is an occasion for singing joyful sings and the reciting of prayers in other languages. Pentecost is known as the birthday of the church and is therefore an opportunity to celebrate in style! But Pentecost 2020 will be a quiet affair as we continue to worship at home, as we reflect on the Spirit and the gifts of the Sp...irit given to the church and her people. A quiet Pentecost gives us an opportunity to consider other ways the Spirit moves. In Pauls letter to the Corinthians he reminds the people, and his readers, that people came to faith through the work of the Spirit, and that the Spirit empowers all believers with gifts for the building up of each other ad the church. There is no hierarchy of gifts, says Paul, all are given so that the people of God can support each other in faith, worship and service. At Pentecost we celebrate the gifts and workings of the Spirit which comes to individuals and communities of faith in a variety of ways, sometimes in a sudden rush of inspiration and activity and at times as the gentle breath of Christ, to followers behind closed doors, to people feeling anxious and uncertain. However and whenever we receive the Spirit, it is a gift from God, a gift of healing and hope, a gift that leads us to love and serve.

16.01.2022 What an emotional roller coaster living in lockdown can be! There is some excitement and relief that some restrictions are being relieved, but we still have a way to go we cannot worship together, and many other activities are still restricted. It is great news that South Australia has gone another whole eek without a case of corona virus, but the unemployment figures released this week are heart breaking. The early church also experienced an emotional roller coaster too, ...they were excited about the good news of Jesus, they enjoyed being part of the new movement of Jesus followers, but they faced persecution and an unknown future. When the Johannine community wrote down the story of Jesus, they wanted people to know that he was the long awaited Messiah, that hi kingdom was breaking into the world and that even in their most anxious and fearful moments God was with them. The writers of the Fourth Gospel emphasised Jesus farewell to his disciples, the long speech he gave as he prepared his followers for life without him, promising them the Advocate, the Spirit, who would be with them as a presence and guide. Jesus reassured the disciples and made promises so that they would not be paralysed by their fear and anxiety, and so that they could continue his ministry in the world, a ministry of love and peace. While we cannot worship together, while our activities remain suspended, we are still the church, we are still the people of God comforted, guided and led by the Spirit that was promised by Jesus and sent from the Father, so that we are not left as orphans.

15.01.2022 There is no doubt that being a person of faith is not always easy, in life, and from other people, we can face challenges to our beliefs and our expression of discipleship. Followers of Christ do not always follow Jesus ways and teachings, and people with no faith can be quick to criticise or lampoon. Jesus told a story about sowing seeds in a field, he spoke about his ministry of sowing the seeds of the kingdom, seeds of love, mercy, and peace. The seeds Jesus scattered to...ok and grew into beautiful, strong heads of wheat. But the evildoer also scattered seeds in the field, seeds of jealousy and distrust, of exploitation and injustice, and those seeds grew too. When it came time for the harvest the workers struggled to tell the difference between the wheat and the weeds, they were worried that if they pulled out the weeds they would harm the wheat. Followers of Christ are human, we have good and evil within us, we are fields of wheat and weeds; in Jesus parable he promises that angels from God will be sent to help bring the kingdom of God to fruition. He also challenged his followers to keep going, to keep striving to live righteous lives, lives that reflect the commandments of God, to love God, self and neighbour, with heart, mind and soul.

15.01.2022 We invite you to have your say! In 2020 the Uniting Church Synodof SA has embarked on a journey to identify its key missional priorities and direction (Strategi...c Plan) for the next 3-5 years. We have created a survey and we welcome you to provide yourfeedback via the survey and to join conversations being planned over the coming months. The questions before us are designed to encourage us to understand clearly the roles and responsibilities of the Synod. We are very keen to hear from you. Your survey responses will help us shape the foci of the Synod going forward and if you would like to have a further conversation with a member of the Working Group, you can include your contact details at the end of the survey. Complete survey: www.surveymonkey.com/r/UCASAStrategicPlan

15.01.2022 "Synod meeting was not just about business it was also about us showing how we can be church together." Mr Bronte Wilson, Moderator #SynodSA

13.01.2022 At the end of the gospel according to Matthew, eleven anxious, confused disciples meet the risen Jesus on a mountain in Galilee. The disciples had been laying low after the arrest, trial and crucifixion of Jesus, it was not an easy time and the felt safer behind closed doors. But then something remarkable happened, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to the garden where Jesus tomb was located, as the arrived there was an earthquake, an angel of the Lord descended and mov...ed the stone that covered the entrance to the tomb and spoke with the women. The angel told the women Jesus had been raised form the dead and that they should tell the disciples to go to Galilee. As the Marys left the garden, they met the risen Christ and he also asked them to send the others to Galilee. The disciples tentatively made their way to Galilee, there they met the risen Jesus. When they saw him, we read that they worshipped him, but some doubted they wavered between adoration and indecision. Their lives were already in turmoil and this encounter did nothing to settle their nerves! We too are emerging from our cocoons, slowly and tentatively. Restrictions are gradually being eased and businesses and activities are slowly, cautiously re-opening. But the re-opening is slow and careful, this is still a time of anxiety and confusion. The risen Jesus did not enter the drama of the disciples, he simply spoke to the eleven, entrusting them with the Great Commission, to share the good news with all the nations. And he promised them his ongoing presence, whatever the circumstances disciples find themselves in remember I am with you always to the end of the age.

13.01.2022 We are thrilled with a recent Outback Links project on Adnyamathanha lands. We are still celebrating. With the help of our Parkin-Sturt Remote Area Bush Chaplai...n Sunny, we recently sent a group of Outback Links volunteers to a remote Aboriginal community to take part in a project restoring their sacred country. The partnership was an incredible symbol of reconciliation that bridged relationships between First Nations peoples and Frontier Services. Kick off your #NAIDOCWeek celebrations with us today and check out our video of the group trip. #FrontierServices #OutbackLinks See more

13.01.2022 It's Teacher Appreciation Week! Thank you teachers for your support and encouragement of our children. A gift from our church to the teachers at East Marden Primary School.

12.01.2022 Today, September 10th, is International World Suicide Prevention Day which provides a focus for dedicated action to prevent suicide. Today is also our national ...day of action when we remind Australians that every day is the day to ask, Are you OK? R U Ok' day is a day that encourages people to reach out to those they are concerned about so that support can be offered to those who are struggling or vulnerable. During the recent pandemic, some people's mental health and well-being has been shaken or may still be depending on what lies ahead. Who can you extend a listening ear and ask 'R U Ok' to today? Rev Mark Dickens, Chaplain at Prince Alfred College shares some advice and practical tips to share with others or to practise yourself. https://sa.uca.org.au/new-times/r-u-ok #unitingchurchsa #RUOK #RUOKDay

12.01.2022 An update from the Synod office. Our Church Council will need to discuss our options around gathered worship during Advent, we will keep you posted

12.01.2022 The annual Synod meeting has been held over the last three days. The display began with a single burnt branch, gathered from a bush fire area. Each day more symbols have been added reminding us that God is doing a new thing.

12.01.2022 This past week many people celebrated Shrove (Pancake) Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of the season of Lent. Over the next six weeks of Lent we prepare for Easter, we travel with Jesus towards Jerusalem and the events that will take place there, including his arrest trial and crucifixion. Along the way we remember the challenges and perils Jesus faced throughout his ministry. Lent is understood to be a penitential season, a time to remember and reflect on t...he hurt and brokenness in our own lives and in the world. The season of Lent is a time when people give something up or begin a new pattern of behaviour, in order to grow in faith and understanding. The Lenten journey begins with the account of Jesus time in the wilderness. Immediately after his baptism Jesus was driven into the desert by the Spirit, there he stayed for forty days and nights, in the harsh conditions and with the wild beasts. While in the desert Satan tempted Jesus, all things considered it would have been a trying time. The inclusion of this account early in Mark’s gospel account sets the scene for the many challenges and perils Jesus would face during his life and ministry. But there is also a message of hope, we learn that angels waited on him, God protected and provided for Jesus through that difficult time, as God has always protected and provided for the people of God.

12.01.2022 Larissa is the new Pastoral Care Worker at East Marden PS. The well being room needed a new couch, thanks to the Campbelltown Rotary Club they now have one, kindly delivered to the school today.

10.01.2022 And we are back for gathered worship and Sunday school

10.01.2022 Don't know why there's no sun up in the sky Stormy weather Since my man and I ain't together Keeps rainin' all the time Life is bare, gloom and misery everywhere... Stormy weather (Harold Arlen, Stormy Weather) 2020 has been a year of storm weather with bushfires and floods, and a pandemic These environmental challenges have led to economic and emotional challenges, many are feeling caught up in a storm, buffeted and battered by forces beyond our control. After Jesus had facilitated the feeding of the multitudes, using a bit of bread and a small amount of fish, he really needed some alone time. He sent the disciples away in a boat to go to the other side, and he had a little rest, and spent some time in prayer. During the night a storm rolled in, the disciples were still in the boat and they were afraid. Then a strange thing happened, through the waves and the rain a figure was walking across the water towards the disciples, they were now even more frightened. The figure came closer and spoke to the frightened men, it was Jesus, he declared Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid Jesus calmed the storm and got into the boat with the disciples. Jesus comes to us in times of stormy weather speaking, comforting and getting into the boat with his followers.

10.01.2022 The saying goes ‘a week is a long time in politics.’ (British Prime Minister Harold Wilson, mid -1960s). A lot can change in politics in seven days, alliances shift, deals are done, or a new proposal is presented to the house; an international incident or a natural disaster can disrupt the best made plans of governments. A week is a long time during a pandemic too!... Within a week South Australia has gone from no active cases to a cluster, then an encouragement to get tested and self-isolate for close contacts, to a strict lockdown for six days. Living through this pandemic has been stressful, people are anxious and earful about their health, their employment, and the future. This spike in infection numbers has led to a spike in our feelings of anxiety and fear. Many centuries ago the prophet Ezekiel spoke to the people of ancient Israel when they were living in exile. The Babylonian army had invaded Israel and marched some of the citizens back to Babylon. The Israelites in exile cried out to God, asking how long, and calling for rescue. The exiles also settled into their new reality, they married and had children, they built houses and planted crops, but their fear and anxiety remained. The prophet spoke to the people, telling them that their shepherd God seeks out all the sheep and provides and cares for them. The shepherd takes the hungry to the lush grass on the mountainside, and the thirsty to fresh, flowing water. Our shepherd God seeks the ‘sheep’ out when they are anxious and afraid, when they feel lost and lonely. Our shepherd God seeks us out with love, mercy, and peace.

09.01.2022 While many people are holding their donations at home, orleaving them in the church office, others are still giving while we wait for the return of the Little Free Pantry #communityspirit

09.01.2022 Generally speaking, as we get older we become more risk-averse; we don’t need to prove ourselves, we don’t crave an adrenalin rush, and it’s not so important to impress other people. Living a cautious, routined life is comfortable, we can relax and enjoy without shocks and surprises. Towards the end of his earthy ministry Jesus told some stories to inspire and encourage his followers to continue his ministry after he left them. These stories are about waiting for Jesus return..., and risk-taking ministry. One of these stories was about a man who was going away, before he went he called three of his slaves to meet with him. He gave each of the slaves a considerable amount of money and then began his journey. After a long absence the man returned and asked the slaves what they had done with the money, the first two had used the money, they had used their gift, they had invested their resources and received a handsome return. The man was pleased, they were rewarded for their efforts. The third slave was a cautious soul, he had taken his share of the money and buried it in the ground, he kept it safe. When the slave returned his gift to the man he was berated for his cautious, risk averse approach. Jesus’ followers are called to continue his ministry and mission in the world, to share and take risks as we share the good news in word and deed. The hope, mercy and peace of the kingdom of heaven is not something to be kept to ourselves, but a message to be share with a broken and hurting world.

09.01.2022 Born in all simplicity, At the turning pint of time (from a song by Simper and Quintrell) There is nothing grand or fancy about the depiction of Jesus birth, or his parents or the first visitors to see the baby born in Bethlehem, the baby who was the Messiah, the Saviour of the world. But clearly for the gospel writer Luke, the birth of Jesus was a turning point of time. ... Early in Luke’s gospel we find the story of a young woman being asked by an angel to carry the child of God. Mary said yes! The time came for the baby to be born, it was time for the inheritor of David’s throne to come into the world. But in a scandalous twist in the tale, Mary gave birth to the Saviour of the world in a stable, wrapped him in simple cloths and laid him in a manger (a feed box for animas). No comfortable birthing suite, no team of birth attendants, and no fancy cot for the baby. The first visitors to the newborn king were a group of shepherds, farm workers who spent a lot of time with their sheep, slept under the stars and didn’t have much human interaction. It was to these marginalised people that the angels came and invited the shepherds to greet the newborn king. Luke’s gospel is an orderly account f the life and ministry of Jesus, it is an orderly account written to tell people that Jesus of Nazareth was the promised Messiah and is the Saviour of the world. At Christmas we remember that Jesus was a prophet, teacher and healer like no other, a humble servant whose life, death and resurrection changed the world.

09.01.2022 Remembrance Day display, thank you Marian. Lest we forget.

08.01.2022 We have a chance to do something extraordinary. As we head out of this pandemic, we can change the world. Create a world of love. - Johnny Corn In South Australia we are blessed to be slowly and carefully opening up, we can now gather for worship and other activities. As we open, we come out of a time of staying in, a time that some have used as a time of reflection and evaluation about our priorities and our hopes for the future. What will our new normal look and feel ...like? As statistics, policies and procedures continue to change, we continue to reflect on what it means to live through, and emerge from, a pandemic. To help in our reflections we turn to the stories of life in the early church, glimpses of which we find in the letters to the young churches. In Pauls letter to the church in Rome he writes that followers of Christ should commit themselves fully and need to be open to renewal and transformation by God. Paul also writes about the gifts God empowers disciples with, gifts to be used to build each other up and to be used in ministry and mission in the world, as we join with God in creating a world of love and kindness. We are certainly going through a time of transformation, we can take the opportunity to make this a time of renewal, a time when we show the world the love, mercy and peace we have been gifted by God.

08.01.2022 It is hard to miss Halloween in Australia these days, with decorated houses, Halloween treats and costumes in the shops and ‘spooky’ offerings on TV. ‘All Hallows Eve’ (31 October) has become quite a festival in Australia. All Saints Day 1 November- is a less celebrated festival but it is important! On All Saints Day we remember the faithful departed, it is a day to give thanks for lives well lived and for the influential ministry of those who have gone before us. All Sai...nts Day is also a day to celebrate the ministry and discipleship of the current generation of the people of God. To acknowledge and give thanks for the many large and small, gentle and bold ways that followers of Christ share the good news in word and deed. Towards the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry he told some parables about the end times, about judgement day. One story describes the Son of Man seated on his throne, reflecting on the care ab attention, or lack of, that people showed towards the ‘least of these’ during their lifetime. Jesus taught that when we feed the hungry and give the thirsty a drink, when we visit the sick and imprisoned, we are continuing his ministry in the world, and that we will be rewarded for our care and concern. On All Saints Day we celebrate and give thanks for the ministry, the sharing of the good news in word and deed, by all of God’s people, the living and the dead.

08.01.2022 Many of us have been living quietly, slowly and gently for three months now, since March we have been sked to stay at home (if possible) Its been hard to stay at home, we have missed family and friends, our routine s have gone out the window and for some loneliness and boredom have set it. Slowly, slowly restrictions are being eased, we can now venture out, do some intrastate travel and some activities are resuming (in a modified form). Easing restrictions is not simple or s...traightforward, ask any business owner or leader of an organisation about the policies and procedures to be considered and decided upon. People are reacting differently to opening up too, some are excited, others are worried, and some have a mixed response. When Jesus commissioned the twelve disciples to go on mission, to share the good news in the towns and villages around them, they were being asked to leave their comfort zone. Jesus told them to take nothing with them, they were warned it could be dangerous and it could cause division within families. The disciples must have been worried! Jesus commissioning of the disciples was also a time of excitement, they were being empowered to continue Jesus ministry, they would form new, divine led relationships with people and they would be made welcome through simple acts of kindness, a cup of cold water in a hot, dry climate. As we move out of restrictions, and as we read Jesus instructions to the 12, we remember to go slowly, to accept hospitality and connection where it is offered and to know that God is with us on this journey of faith and mission.

07.01.2022 The road that is built in hope is more pleasant to the traveller than the road built in despair, even though they both lead to the same destination. Marion Zimmer Bradley. When Paul wrote to the church in Rome he wrote about hope, a deep hope that believers find in God. During this pandemic, when we are feeling anxious and afraid, and when some have more time for reflection, there is much of interest in the letter to the Romans. Paul is talking about a deeper, and different f...orm of hope, this is about much more than hoping for good weather or that our favourite football team will win. He is referring to the hope we find in God, the hope we find in the promised kingdom of God. Paul writes about the conviction of hope that comes through our suffering and our endurance of that suffering. When life is going smoothly, when there are few bumps in the road we do not need to reflect on hope, but when we endure suffering, when we experience grief and loss, when we feel alone or afraid, when there is uncertainty about the future, we need to look for, and hold onto hope. Paul tells us that the ultimate hope comes from God and is gifted to us by God - Gods love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us. We do not earn this hope, we cannot generate this divine hope by ourselves, it is a gift freely given by God, to the people of God.

05.01.2022 SA Government made some significant announcements last Friday 12 June regarding the Roadmap for Easing COVID-19 Restrictions and yesterday (Tuesday 16 June) the...re were further announcements regarding our state borders. The General Secretary Rev Felicity Amery has sent out an important letter addressing these changes in Step 2 Plus, including the updated version of Roadmap to Reopening Churches. On her letter, Felicity encourages us to move cautiously and continue the great work being done. Click here to read the full letter: http://createsend.com/t/j-C96B87A3BFA2EB322540EF23F30FEDED

05.01.2022 One week on from the tragic explosion in Beirut, Rev Gaby Kobrossi, Chairperson of the Uniting Church's Middle East National Conference, shares this prayer. Please continue to hold the people of Lebanon in your prayers. #prayforlebanon

05.01.2022 The Passover Festival is an important date on the Jewish calendar, amongst the many festivals commemorating important moments in the history of Judaism. Christians remember that Jesus last supper with his close disciples was a Passover meal. At that last supper Jesus reframed the meaning of the meal, making it a memorial of his life and ministry, his death and resurrection. The commemoration of the last supper is a celebration of the ne life people find in Christ. The origin...s of the Passover meal come from a time when the Hebrews were living and working in slavery in Egypt. The people cried out to God, please save us, liberate us. God heard the cries of the people and called Moses to confront the king of Egypt and to be the leader of the Hebrew slaves. God sent a series of plagues upon Egypt, in an attempt to challenge Pharaoh and to show that the God of the Hebrews was more powerful than the Egyptian gods. After nine plagues nothing had changed for the slaves; God sent one more plague, a devastating event that created enough chaos that the Hebrews could outrun the Egyptian army. Before the angel of death moved across the land the Hebrews were told how to prepare their home and themselves to survive, the unprepared would lose the first born of every family and every animal. After the night of devastation, the slaves were able to escape through the Red Sea and into the wilderness. Every year the Jewish community remember their salvation, they celebrate Gods authority and they celebrate their freedom.

04.01.2022 While we have been staying home the of theS Shochool have been missing each other. On the last two Sunday monrings a few families have held a Zoom catch up. Here is an artist's impression of a Campbelltown UC Sunday School conversation.

04.01.2022 Jesus had a very busy 24 hours! Early in his ministry, as people were slowly learning who he was and what his ministry was about, he was kept busy. First, Jesus and his disciples went to the synagogue, while they were there, he healed a man who had an evil spirit. Next the little group went to Simon’s house, where Jesus healed Simon’s mother-in-law who was suffering with a fever. And then word got out people came from all around seeking healing from Jesus, and Jesus helped ...them. He was busy, busy, healing and spending time with people. The next morning Jesus got up early, while it was still dark to go and pray, to have some time for personal reflection. Simon tracked him down and asked him to come back, people want healing, the people need you! Jesus did not take kindly to Simon’s demands, he declared that his ministry of healing was just one part of his greater mission, which was to proclaim the message of the kingdom of God. And, Jesus had not come for one group of people alone, he had been sent by God to share the good news with all kinds of people and in many places. As we begin a new year of ministry it is good to remember our mission as bearers of the kingdom of God, and the importance of finding time to reflect and to restore our souls.

03.01.2022 We are part of this great enterprise

03.01.2022 We will be worshipping at home for the next two Sundays (at least) and no other groups will be gathering at the church. Stay home, let's keep each other safe.

03.01.2022 Stop the world I want to get off! There are times when I feel overwhelmed by my things to do list and my responsibilities as a minister, a parent, a member of a family and a citizen. I can feel like I am spread too thin, that I am letting people down or that other people are letting me down. There are days and moments when I want to stop the world, just like pressing the button on the bus, and getting off for a while, to step away from my responsibilities, and decision maki...ng for a while. In the book of Genesis we find the rollicking story of Jacob. One night he found himself alone in the desert, he has left behind his two wives, two concubines and all their children, to make his way to meet his estranged brother. Last time he saw Esau, he was full of rage and ready to kill Jacob! In the many years that have passed since Jacobs deception he has got into a few other scrapes he has been deceived and he has tricked other people. Jacob is a colourful and complex character, and on that night alone in the desert he wrestled with his past and his responsibilities. That night a man wrestled with him all night; it is not clear in the narrative who the man was, but Jacob believed he had met God face to face. After the wrestling Jacob asked for a blessing, which he received, along with a new name and a new purpose. Some days the worries and anxieties of this life become overwhelming, the story of Jacob tells us that in our wrestling God is with us, God is always with us blessing us, and giving our lives meaning and purpose.

02.01.2022 Many ethnic and cultural groups in Australia take very seriously the care of their elders and actively draw on the wisdom and experience of older people. Elders can have an important role in mentoring and passing on traditions to younger generations. When Jesus was just over a week old his parents took him to the Temple, there they met two older people who confirmed what the angel had told Mary, made prophecies about Jesus’ future ministry and warned Mary of the challenges h...er family would face. Mary and Joseph took the baby to the Temple for a ritual purification. While they were there Simeon. A pious old man., led by the Holy Spirit approached the holy family and spoke to them. Simeon had a lot of experience and wisdom; he knew the promises of old and had looked his whole life for signs of God’s activity in the world. When Simeon saw the babe he knew Jesus was the One, he knew Jesus would bring the good news of hope and salvation to the people of Israel and the Gentiles. Simeon confirmed what the angel had said to Mary, but also warned there would be pain, the pain of rejection and death. Anna was an old woman who lived at the Temple, she fasted and prayed to God. She also saw the baby Jesus and knew in her heart that he had come to redeem the holy city of Jerusalem, and to save the world. Two older people, people with wisdom and experience, saw in this baby great hopes. They knew God was doing something radical and new, that God was working in surprising and unexpected ways for the salvation of the world.

01.01.2022 2020 will be remembered for many things, one remembering will be the waiting. Waiting for the bushfires to be brought under control and for the smoke to clear. And as the smoke cleared and the clean-up began, we waited for news about a little virus, we waited to hear when it would come to Australia. We have waited to hear daily statistics, trial treatments and progress on vaccines. Since March we have waited to hear about and implement new restrictions and to find new ways ...of doing things. We have waited at home; we have waited to come back to church and we have waited to see family and friends. It has been a hard year, the waiting has taken its toll, many are tired and weary. Jesus told a strange parable about the promised kingdom of heaven, a story about 10 bridesmaids who were going to a wedding. The bridegroom was delayed, and the women fell asleep while they were waiting. Unexpectedly the bridegroom appeared in the middle of the night, everyone got up to greet him, five were ready with plenty of oil for their lamps, but the others were caught short. The ones who went looking for more lamp oil missed out on the wedding banquet. Jesus told this story to illustrate what it means for his followers to wait for the kingdom of heaven to be fully realised. There will be times when we become tired and weary, when we fall asleep as we wait. But, says Jesus, even when we feel weary, we should be prepared and alert for signs of the kingdom of heaven breaking into our world, moments of healing and hope, of reconciliation and renewal.

01.01.2022 After 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, Moses and the Israelites were ready to settle in the Promised Land. They were looking forward to settling in one place, to being free, to build homes and grow crops. But the people hadn’t thought through all the things necessary to begin a whole new way of life, they had not given much thought to leadership. Their current leader, Moses, was now an old man, he needed to raise up a younger leader to guide and encourage the people a...s they began their new life in Canaan. Moses assured the people that God would raise up a prophet and challenged the people to show due respect to the new leader. He also declared that this person would preach and teach God’s word, they would uphold traditions and recite the salvation history of Israel. As the new year of activities, ministry and mission gets underway we are like the Israelites at the edge of the Promised Land. We do not know what the future holds, we don’t know what decisions we will need to make, how we can support people or what duties we will need to fulfil. But we can be confident that as we enter this new year, God will continue to lead and guide, empower and correct, all who love and serve in the name of Christ.