Uniting Church,

TODAY is Social Justice Sunday 2005 which is being celebrated in the Christian churches. This is across churches and across communities.
We were reminded by Marie about the difficulties encountered by the people in South East Asia during the Tsunami early this year and asked to continue to assist people when and where we can.
We heard this morning of the tensions, which existed in the society of Jesus’ time, not much different from the tensions which exist in the world today. We remember the stories of complaint when Jesus healed people on the Sabbath and his disgust of the traders in the temple.
There was continual criticism in the writings of the prophets of the system prevailing at the time, where many people were downcast. Isaiah presents an image of a society of caring. This caring society is sometimes a long way from what we see today.
We are not alone today when it comes to helping others and to help others we don’t have to do it all just “our bit”. Congratulations to Karli James and Denny Verghese on their forthcoming marriage on Sunday, 16 October. Our thoughts and prayers are with both of you and your families.
Church Lending Library. Books on the shelves in the morning tea room belong to people who have greatly enjoyed inspirational books and want to share them. You are welcome to borrow or lend any books you think appropriate. Latest editions include “The Jesus I never knew” and “Where is God when it hurts?”
Our church fete is almost upon us and we should be collecting goods and planning for 15 October. Planned stalls include work and craft, garden, white elephant, cakes, guess the birthday date of a doll, jams, pickles, home made sweets, fruit and vegetables and Devonshire teas.
Any other stalls or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Helpers will be needed on Friday, 14 October to set up and after the fete to clean up.
“Come and Meet the Neighbours” a forum celebrating community diversity on Wednesday, 28 September 7.30 to 9.30pm at Pakenham Uniting Church Hall.
Come and share time with others in our community with speakers from Baha’i, Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, Jewish and Sikh faiths. All welcome and admission is free. Contact Dick Johnston (5941 3495) or Eunice Smith (5941 5940).
This week:
Wednesday, 28 September: 7.30pm 9.30pm: Come and meet the Neighbours.
Contact Eunice Smith for details 5941 5940.
Friday, 30 September: 10.30am 1.30pm: Community drop in centre.
Saturday, 1 October: 10am 2pm: Meadowvale Village Annual Fete. Includes stalls and light entertainment.
Sunday, 2 October: 2.30pm: Celebrate 50 years of Chaplaincy. New CRE Curriculum with guest speaker Rev Tim Costello AO at Swanston Street Church of Christ.
Tuesday, 4 October: 10am: Bible Study.
Tuesday, 4 October: 10am – Noon: Beehive Craft Group.
Coming Events:
Wednesday, 5 October: Morning and Afternoon Fellowship are joining together to take a walk in Wilson Park Berwick. Come and join them.
Tuesday, 11 October: 7.30pm: Church Council meeting.
Saturday, 15 October: Church fete. (Start getting your plants and goodies ready now).
“Those who are generous are blessed, for they share their bread with the poor.” Proverbs 22 V9.