Parramatters - 1st April 2022

Hi Parramatta Salvos, 

This week we take a look at week 3 of our Life Group series, learning how we SERVE both God and our community.

As we have said over the last few weeks, it is our prayer that you would start to consider being part of a Life Group (if you aren't already) - these groups will launch after Easter in Term 2, 2022. On Sunday you will be given the opportunity to express interest in joining a group. We encourage you to read our Life Group FAQ sheet below. 

We are also looking for Life Group 'Hosts'. Hosting is simply coordinating the group - calling the fortnightly gatherings and making sure the group has resources. Hosts do not have to 'lead' the bible study/discussion - in fact, we'd encourage you to share this responsibility in your group. But we do need people to host groups and be the key contact. If you feel this is something God may be prompting you to do, would you please get in touch with Annette Duncan by the end of March? 

We are excited to see where this Life Group journey will take us!

Kylie & Sarah
(Corps Officer Team)

Youth & YA
All Youth and Young Adults are invited to Carpark Carnival - a divisional event at Blacktown Corps THIS Saturday 2 April. Get in touch with Jayne if you need a lift!

Self Denial Appeal
On Sunday we will be holding our Self Denial Altar Service in our services. We hope that you have received your letter and giving envelope for the appeal, if not there will be some available in the foyer on Sunday.
We invite you to continue to pray about your giving in this appeal, and how you can support the International work of The Salvation Army.

Celebration of Life - Hazel Vickery
On Sunday 3 April there will be a service to celebrate the life of our friend Hazel Vickery. This service will take place at approximately 12:15pm following our 11am worship service. All are welcome to attend and join with Hazel's family in this celebration service. 

Craft Group
Craft group commenced last Friday and 10 people attended!  Everyone is welcome on Fridays from 10am-1pm in our multipurpose room (next to the kitchen) Feel free to come along and share skills/learn new crafts. BYO craft materials, tea and coffee will be provided. Denise Thomas will be coordinating this group and is available to answer any questions. 

Planned Giving Renewal
Thank you to everyone who has committed to our new Planned Giving program. We are encouraged by the generosity of so many, and know God will use what we give to build His kingdom here in Parramatta. We are please to advise that there has been a 40% increase in the weekly pledged amount and we give thanks to God for this.

If you were away or missed the opportunity, you can still place your pledge card in the regular offering this week. Additionally pledge cards and envelopes will be available in the foyer. As we are allocating new 'giving numbers' in this cycle, it's important to return a card even if you have pledged in the past. 

Wedding
We are very excited for Troy and Kerryn who will be married at Parramatta Corps on Saturday 2 April. We pray God's blessing on Troy and Kerryn as they share this day with friends and family, and begin life together as a married couple. 

Wedding Anniversary
Congratulations to Len and Marie Whittaker who celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary on the 31st March 2022. Blessings to you both on this significant milestone.

Promoted to Glory
Sympathy is expressed to Jean Fouracre and family on the Promotion to Glory Fred Fouracre. A service to celebrate Fred's life will be held on Friday 8th April at 2pm at The Salvation Army Parramatta. Please continue to pray for Jean and the family at this sad time.

Ongoing Covid Impacts
Please continue to lift up the many people in our church community who have been impacted by Covid over the past few weeks. We are praying that people recover well and that transmission is minimised over the coming weeks. 

Flood Relief
We continue to pray and support those who have been affected by flooding in Queensland and New South Wales, especially for those who have been impacted again this week. The Salvation Army are still very active in these regions and are providing relief for so many.
                            

Prayer Room
Each month the territory provide a prayer guide for anyone who would like to pray for the needs of the Salvation Army across Australia. We encourage you to take a look at the guide and use it as a resources for your quiet time. 

Connect Site
04/04/22 - Keith Humbley and Mildred Chau
06/04/22 - Help needed
08/04/22 - Ann Lingard

Car Park
03/04/22 - Parramatta v Dragons - 4:45pm - Pete & Leanne West

Coffee (Cafe)
03/04/22 - Caitlin Young and Maryanne Cleary

Morning Tea
03/04/22 - Johnny, Bing Bing and Heather

Welcomes
03/04/22 - 9:30am Montana Sandercock-Brown and Ann Lingard
03/04/22 - 11am     Dot Griffin