Parramatters - 16th April 2021

New Sermon Series - Hearing God
I spent a lot of time as a teenager being disappointed that God hadn’t spoken to me. I’m not really sure what I was expecting -  a booming shout from the sky, a quiet whisper as I sat on the beach? Either way, I didn’t get it. And I bet if we took a survey at church, most other Christians would not have heard the audible voice of God. I’m not saying it doesn’t happen, but for most of us, God speaks in different ways.

Something happens as we sit in worship, or explore in nature. As we read scripture or paint or run. In the words of a friend or the actions of a spouse - we feel something. We think God is saying something. The problem is, it can be tricky to decipher what’s real and true. We need tools to better understand what God is saying as he continues to speak to his people. We need to get better at listening for and recognising God’s voice - understanding that he speaks in all kinds of ways.

Here, in 2021, God is still speaking. He wants us to hear him. You don’t need to become a hermit. You don’t need a theology degree. You don’t need fancy shoes or a special hat. You just need to be you. God doesn’t need us to change who we are, he needs us to change how we listen.

We hope you’ll join us over the next 5 weeks as we take a look at our new series “Hearing God”. Join us as we break down common myths about hearing from God and implement tools to connect with God more intimately and understand more of what he is saying. 

Celebration of Life - Albertus Offereins
Due to COVID restrictions, 12 months ago, attendance at the funeral of Albertus Offereins was restricted to 10 people - all of whom were from his and Joyce's family. Now that restrictions are lifted, we are able to invite others from his Salvationist family to attend a short celebration of his life. 

This service will commence at approximately 12:15pm, following the 11am service this Sunday 18 April.

It will provide an opportunity to both remember Albertus, and give thanks for his many areas of service within the Corps. You are all invited to attend.

ANZAC Day
Next Sunday 25 April, we pause to reflect and remember Anzac Day. Our brass band will be supporting ceremonies in a number of ways. We ask that as we await confirmation this week, you continue to check your emails for updates. There will be a special ANZAC Day email early next week with all the information. 

Photo Update
For those who have not had their picture taken for the Corps Directory, please meet up with Jon Griffin who will be available to take photos between the end of the 9:30am meeting and the commencement of the 11am meeting for the next few Sundays. 

Corps Directory
If you do not have a computer to access the Corps Directory online, there are a limited number of paper copies available. Please contact Margaret Robinson if you need a hard copy. 

Corps Uniform Badges 
We have just received a new supply of Corps badges. If you would like to purchase a set, please contact Margaret Robinson. The cost of the badges are $20 per set. 

Ladies Fellowship
Each week Ladies Fellowship meet at Parramatta Salvos. This group provides a place for women to gather together, build friendships, give support and care, encourage learning and share the love of Christ with each other. 10am-12pm Wednesdays on Level 1 at Parramatta Salvos. 

This Wednesday April 21, we will be joined by Major Kylie Collinson as we reflect upon ANZAC Day. 

Kids Church and Mini-God Squad
We hope everyone has had a great Easter break, and that all our kids are excited about returning to Kids Church and Mini-God Squad this Sunday April 18. All children are welcome to attend our kids programs during the 9:30am service each Sunday!

New Kids Group!
We are excited to let you know about our new kids percussion group called 'Pulse'. This group is open to all children - all genders, all ages and all skill levels. 

This group will run as a trial in Term 2 from 10:45am-11:30am on Sundays (following the 9:30am service), beginning Sunday 2 May.

We are hoping that it will be a convenient time for our existing families, but could also work for people in our community and encourage them to attend and be part of our Sunday congregations.

We are excited about trialling something new, and hopeful that our Parra Kids will be excited about being involved.

For more information please get in touch with Rachel Maxwell. 

Graduation
Congratulations to Major David Collinson who graduated this week! David has completed a Master of Business Administration through the University of Adelaide. David has been working away at his masters for the past 5 years part-time. A huge achievement - well done, David!