Parramatters - 30th June 2023

Hi Parramatta Salvos, 

This week we are gathering at The Tops Conference Centre for our Corps Retreat. We'll be joined by special guests Lt. Col. David and Sandra Godkin as we explore 'Greater Things'. We ask that you pray for all delegates across the weekend, and invite you to join us on Sunday morning at 10am at The Tops for our Sunday Service. 

As many people are involved in the retreat weekend, there will be no Sunday services at 426 Church Street, Parramatta this Sunday 2 July. 

Kylie & Sarah
(Corps Officer Team)

Ladies Fellowship
This Wednesday 5 July we will be led by Major Margaret Sanz and we will exploring the topic, 'In the Footsteps of Jesus'. All women are invited to join together at 10am for morning tea, followed by the meeting at 10.30am.

The Sanctuary Course is Back!
How can a church become a sanctuary—a place where individuals living with mental health challenges feel safe, supported, and a sense of belonging? The Sanctuary Course was created to inspire and equip communities of faith that are asking this important question. Developed in consultation with mental health professionals, theologians, and people with lived experience, this eight-session study guide explores key mental health topics and examines meaningful ways to offer companionship, support recovery, and promote wellbeing.

The Sanctuary Course is for anyone who wants to learn about faith and mental health. It requires no previous training or expertise—just a willingness to engage in dialogue with other believers. This course and films address difficult and sensitive topics, and may not be appropriate for a young audience. It is not recommended for people ages 17 and younger.

This course will take place at Parramatta Salvos (426 Church Street, Parramatta) from 19 July-6 September on Wednesday evenings from 7pm-8:30pm. Supper will be provided for a gold coin donation each week. Parking is available in our undercover car park (entry via Grose Street). 

Register here: https://parramattasalvos.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1768540

Save the Date!
Our Kids and Youth Sunday will be on Sunday 13 August! We'll be holding a special 10am service, followed by fellowship lunch and fun activities. Make sure you mark your diaries and plan to be there! 

Impact Plus
Impact Plus is an expansion of the Future Brass camp initiated by the Melbourne Staff Band a number of years ago and is open to all brass, percussion and woodwind players aged 12 – 30 years.   It will be a camp that encourages, nurtures, and develops instrumentalists for ministry and mission.

The camp, open to instrumentalists from all divisions across the territory, will be held at Rutherford Country Retreat, Blampied, Victoria.  Members of the Melbourne Staff Band are looking forward to the opportunity of encouraging the next generation of instrumentalists in their Christian faith and musical development.  

The registration fee is $150 with interstate flights included in the cost.

Closing date for registrations is July 7 July.  Here’s the link to the registration page - https://salvationarmy.typeform.com/to/Um8TczI4 

Equip Youth Camp
Registrations are open for all teenagers (high school and above) for Equip Youth Camp. It's going to be a great week away in the Sept/Oct School Holidays, so make sure you get in and register as streams are filling up very quickly! Register here: https://tinyurl.com/equipsydney2023

Constitution Hill Christian Gathering
Last Sunday, the brass band led the Christian Gathering at Constitution Hill. This was a great afternoon where over 80 residents gathered in the community centre at the village. Thank you to the band for their ministry in the wider community.

Fundraising Update
With the 30 June approaching, we are pleased to let you know where we are currently placed with the 2023 Self Denial Appeal and Red Shield Appeal.

Self Denial Appeal
We are grateful to everyone who gave so generously to the international work of The Salvation Army through this appeal. We have currently raised $48,797 which is an outstanding result. We are aware that there are some recurring payments that still need to be credited to Parramatta and so we believe that we will reach our target of $50,000. An excellent result for which we thank God.

Red Shield Appeal
The Red Shield Appeal also concludes on 30 June but to date we have raised $24,642. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the appeal either by collecting, donating, setting up or counting. While we are down on last year, we recognise the current financial climate of Australia. Again, there are some more donations still coming which will be added to the total.

Once we have received the final figures we will provide a further update.

Corps Retreat
Please pray for everyone attending and leading at our Retreat this weekend. We pray it will be a great time of teaching, refreshment and fellowship for everyone involved.  

Health Concerns
Heather Hayes is currently in Nepean Hospital having tests. Please pray for Heather and Alan at this time.

Warren Freeman is also in hospital and recovering from surgery. Please pray for Warren and Pamela. 

Rosters

Salvos Connect
03/07 - Cafe: Will & Kerrie | Vouchers: Deneise G
05/06 - Cafe:  Will & Kerry, Shane & Kate
07/06 - Cafe: Marg P   | Vouchers: Jan R

Car Park

06/07/2023, Thursday

Tigers v Sharks

6:30 - 7:50pm

Loretta Carger

John Acocks