Chat2gether

Blog relocates

2008-09-16T10:37:00.002+08:00

Due to ongoing problems with our blogger site, particularly the sending of notification e-mails, we have moved to a new location: blog.cocwa.org.au.

This new location will be the blog's permanent home. Please change any bookmarks you have to point to this new address.

You can subscribe on the new site to receive e-mails when new items have been added. Go to http://blog.cocwa.org.au/page_subscribe.html

CCTC NEWS

2008-09-05T11:55:00.002+08:00

People study at Churches of Christ Theological College for different reasons. Some are discerning God’s call on their lives. Some are training for ministry. All enjoy the thrill of discovering more about God, faith and themselves. Why don’t you join them on the journey?

CCTC report that they are making good headway in achieving their goals this year. Click on http://www.cctc.edu.au/news/index.html to learn something of their work and achievements.

Contact John Williamson
Registrar - Churches of Christ Theological College
44-60 Jacksons Road, Mulgrave VIC 3170, Australia
Ph +61 3 9790 1000
www.cctc.edu.au registrar@cctc.edu.au

COCWA ANNOUNCEMENT

2008-09-05T09:39:00.005+08:00

NEW EXECUTIVE MINISTER

FOR

CHURCHES OF CHRIST IN W.A.

After six and a half years as Executive Minister, Barry Austin concluded his time in that role on 30th June this year. In order to build on the great organizational foundation that Barry has established, the Executive Board of COCWA has been in search mode for a successor to continue to take the movement forward in health, mission and growth.
The Executive is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Mike Adamson, formerly of Swan Hill in Victoria, as the new Executive Minister. Mike will commence in that role on 20th October 2008. He has a background as Senior Pastor of churches in N.S.W. and Victoria which experienced significant growth under his leadership. He was also part of the task force in establishing A.C.O.M. in its current form.
Mike is married to Melissa and they have five children aged between four and fourteen.
Mike is enthusiastic about possibilities for Churches of Christ in planting new churches and resourcing existing churches for mission, growth and vitality.

Gordon Bassett

President – Churches of Christ in W.A.

Ministry Position Available

2008-09-04T12:13:00.002+08:00

Associate Pastor - Youth & Families

The Elizabeth Church of Christ in Adelaide, South Australia is seeking a full time Associate Pastor to work in the areas of youth and young families. We are looking for a spiritually mature, evangelical Pastor, who is theologically trained, has proven experience in these ministry areas and who embraces Churches of Christ beliefs and practices.

The role expectations are available in more detail, but in summary we are looking for someone to develop healthy youth, young adult and young family programs that will complement the overall vision of our church, with a strong focus on discipleship, leadership development and a capacity to work in a team.

The Elizabeth Church of Christ has established a strong presence in the local community with a heart for the poor and to see the community transformed by the power of the Gospel of Christ.

You can request a more detailed Role Description on request.
Phone: 8255 2467, email: lindsay@elizabethcoc.org

Applications close 13th October, 2008

INVITATION

2008-09-04T10:57:00.000+08:00

CONCERT BOOKING

2008-09-04T09:33:00.004+08:00

I am writing on behalf of Indiana-based pop/rock band no greater sky. We are scheduling dates for our upcoming Australia tour, which will run from November 21 to February 11. We would love to have Churches of Christ as a part of our tour! Specifically, we will be in your area 23-26 November. Whether it be through a one-night, weekend, or week-long concert and/or worship event, we are open to what will meet the needs of your church best. We are also available for Christmas events. Below, I have included dates that are available for booking.

Some brief information on us:
This past August, we claimed the title of 2007 Unity Fest Artist Ovation winner. As the highest rated band in the online fan voting stage, we moved on to the final round where we were chosen as overall winning artist by Word/Warner Brothers Records. The win earned us two prime stage spots at Unity Fest in Muskegon, Michigan (USA), including a slot opening for MercyMe on the Main Stage. Other artists we have shared the bill with include Sanctus Real, Newsboys, Jeremy Camp, Casting Crowns, Jars of Clay, Nevertheless, Leeland, Chris Tomlin, and Superchic[k].

Our debut album, which was released in the summer of 2006, was co-produced by myself and Mark Pay (whom also produced and developed Island/Def Jam Records artist Jon McLaughlin on first two albums), engineered by Grammy Award winner Ronnie Brookshire (Rob Thomas, Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman), and mixed & mastered by Grammy Award winner Chad Evans (Gaither Vocal Band).

AVAILABLE DATES

November 23-26 (Western Australia only)
December 1-4 (Victoria only, unless for a fly-date)
December 8-26
January 2-6 (New South Wales only, unless for a fly-date)
January 24-30

For more information, to listen to songs, and watch live performance video clips, you can visit our MySpace page.

You can contact us through this email (nogreatersky@gmail.com), or via telephone at 517.862.3081. Thank you very much for your time! I hope to hear from you soon.

-- Curt Anderson
no greater sky LLC
www.myspace.com/nogreatersky
517.862.3081

Mental Health Course

2008-09-02T12:31:00.002+08:00

AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN LOBBY (ACL)

2008-09-02T11:09:00.005+08:00

September 6 is just around the corner and it is important that Christians are well prepared for the WA election. Deputy Premier Eric Ripper and Opposition Leader Colin Barnett have agreed to attend an event called 'Make it Count' at Burswood Grand Ballroom on Wednesday, September 3, 7.00 pm. This is an historic event, being the first time both the Leader of the Opposition and Deputy Premier in WA have agreed to attend an event to exclusively address the Christian constituency. It is important that churches across WA recognize this as a not-to-be missed opportunity to prove to politics, the media and the wider community the strong interest of Christians in the good governance of our State.
In addition to this, ACL has organized for candidates from many different electorates across WA to meet with the Christians in their community. These are called 'Meet Your Candidate Forums' and it is important that they are well attended for two reasons: Firstly, Christians need to know the values of the person they are voting for and secondly, Members of Parliament and candidates need to see the Christian constituency as large and active, and worth considering when creating policy.
For info on where Meet Your Candidate Forums are being held and for the date and time of Make it Count, log on to ACL's WA Votes website: www.wavotes.org.au. This website will also include the Parties' positions on a range of issues and how MP's have voted on important pieces of legislation.

Contact waoffice@acl.org.au or 9221 0655 if you have any further questions.

The Australian Christian Lobby is a non-denominational, non party partisan lobby group and their vision is to see Christian principles and ethics accepted and influencing the way we are governed, do business, and relate to each other as a community.

video editing position

2008-08-26T12:44:00.003+08:00

Youth for Christ are looking for someone to fill the role of video editing.
Details on the website www.yfc.org.au

SPECIAL OFFER

2008-08-22T15:00:00.004+08:00

Just a brief note to let you know about a special offer on the Mission Action Planning manual and the Starting Mission-Shaped Churches manual.

Both the MAP and SMSC manual are ideal for working through with your church committee, leadership team or parish council. To enable churches to buy multiple copies for their committee/leadership team members we are offering an extra discount for bulk purchases.

Mission Action Planning Manual
Reduced from $70.00. The Mission Action Planning Manual (MAP) gives a step-by-step guide to planning and implementing evangelism and outreach within your church or group. The kit comes with a CD containing a range of forms and planning tools that you can customise and reproduce.

The table of contents can be downloaded by clicking www.gospeloutreach.com.au/resources/MAPContents.pdf

1-4 copies $45.00 ea 5-9 copies $35.00 ea 10+ copies $30.00 ea

Starting Mission-Shaped Churches Manual (Stuart Robinson)
Reduced from $29.95. This practical manual covers issues such as the Biblical foundation for church planting, church planter characteristics, different methods & models, recruiting a core team, developing a mission plan, launching the public meeting and planting again. The manual comes with discussion questions at the end of each chapter, and is full of helpful examples and illustrations – many drawn from the author’s own experience as a church planter and consultant. To find out more the following extracts can be downloaded.

SMSC Contents www.gospeloutreach.com.au/resources/SMSCContents.pdf
SMSC Chapter 3 www.gospeloutreach.com.au/resources/SMSCChapter3.pdf
SMSC Case Study www.gospeloutreach.com.au/resources/SMSCSteveBligh.pdf

1-4 $25.00 5-9 copies $22.50 ea 10+ copies $20.00 ea
Postage is extra.

The order form can be downloaded by clicking on www.gospeloutreach.com.au/resources/resource2.pdf and then post or fax it to us with your payment. Or, give us a call on 02 9980 9913 and we can take your order over the phone. If you would like further information please contact us on 02 9980 9913 or at info@gospeloutreach.com.au

Ministry Position Available

2008-08-22T11:54:00.001+08:00

INTERESTED IN LABYRINTHS?

2008-08-22T11:14:00.011+08:00

Opportunities to expand your horizons

Dayspring and Nathanael’s Rest will jointly host a visit by Robert Ferre, a founding member of The Labyrinth Society, the largest organisation promoting interest and use of labyrinths worldwide.

These workshops will include designs through different cultures to the present moment, the renaissance of the labyrinth, the labyrinth as a spiritual tool, Chartres Cathedral and contemporary uses of labyrinth.

In preparation, Dayspring is offering an introductory weekend -

WALKING THE LABYRINTH

Open weekend to come and explore or renew your interest in the labyrinth. Program will include history of the labyrinth, introduction to some significant sites, practice and meditation opportunities using Nathanael’s Rest Classical garden labyrinth.

September 4-7th at Nathanael’s Rest, 800 Gill Street, Mundaring. Cost $250

BOOKINGS NOW OPEN – RING 9376 1400 or email info@dayspring.org.au
For both workshops and retreat.

Invitation to attend Courses

2008-08-22T10:32:00.015+08:00

These 4 week courses are available on 4 Sunday nights, August 31 to September 21, for you and your church to make use of as you wish. They run from 7 pm to 8.30 pm each night.

Venue:- South Perth Church of Christ
Cnr Murray St & McNabb Loop, Como, WA.
Please RSVP to 9 313 1600

Catalyst A: A series for next generation leaders - Rod Thom
In the weeks ahead, we will be unpacking the elements of a catalyst leader – a person who is uncompromising in their integrity, passionate about God, intentional about community, courageous in their calling and engaged in their culture. Some of today’s most influential communicators have come together to provide this resource that is meant to help you grow in your personal influence. Our time together will truly challenge you! Cost of this stream will be $20.00 for the study manual. Limited number of 10 participants. Catalyst B will run during Term 4

The Power & Privilege of Worship - Daron Crothers
Expand, broaden, enrich, reshape and deepen your understanding of Biblical Worship. There will be opportunities to experience unique worship through this Stream

A new me? Finding your identity in Christ - Liz Roberts
Sometimes trying to live the Christian life seems all too much of a struggle. Jesus promised us ‘Life’ but what does this really mean? This course explores our identity in Christ and how to ‘walk in the Spirit’ or by the ‘grace’ of God.

DVD and Discussion Series - led by Tania Watson

- 31 August - Branded from Birth
Are you aware of the sheer scope and scale of market research and development that is targeting at people from birth? This DVD documentary from the ABC is a must-see for all those who recognize the challenge of living as Jesus’ Disciples in an increasingly consumer driven world.

- 7 September - Haven’t we been here before?
The writer of Ecclesiastes observed that there is ‘nothing new under the sun’. The challenges that we face in seeking to live for Jesus in our times are not new. This documentary explores the dilemmas facing Christians in the 17th Century Britain. You’ll find yourself encouraged and challenged by the striking similarities to our own time in history.

- 14 September - How Great is our God
This DVD message by Louis Giglio will thrill you to the core and encourage you deeply! ‘Your life is a miracle and the Creator knows you by name.’

- 21 September - Nooma Night
Rob Bell presents through a collection of short 10 minute DVDs some thoughtful and inspirational reflections on living for Jesus with integrity in our world. We will look at four DVDs and engage in some discussion following each one.

Youth Vision - Hall of Faith.

2008-08-22T08:41:00.002+08:00

Youth Vision have created what we have called a Hall of Fame, but on reflection I like Rod Thom's suggestion of calling it a Hall of Faith instead!

Brian Stitt was welcomed in as our inaugural entrant into the Hall last weekend at the leadership retreat.
See why Brian was chosen by clicking here - a link to the Youth Vision web site.

Youth Vision Leaders Retreat - Huge Success!

2008-08-22T08:39:00.001+08:00

What an amazing weekend we have just experienced!
If you want to know what we all got up to you had better click here to find out!

JAAL WEEKLY BULLETIN

2008-08-20T14:23:00.007+08:00

In the last week registrations have come in from Bunbury Seventh Day Adventist Church, Dianella Uniting Church, Three Crosses Westminster Presbyterian Church, Yokine Baptist Church, Harvest West Bible College and Waratah Christian Community. This is indicative of the wide range of churches that are coming on board with Jesus All About Life. One of the significant outcomes of Jesus All About Life has been seeing churches of all different styles coming together to honour Jesus.

How do you become a part of Jesus All About Life?
* Browse the website: www.jesusallaboutlife.com.au to get information about the campaign including reports from the Adelaide, Canberra and Tasmanian campaign.
* Register your church to participate. There is a $100 fee which can be paid online. Register online or contact us on jaalwa@biblesocietywa.com.au for help.
* Pray for the campaign. Churches that have registered are invited to organise prayer meetings with other churches in your area.*Assist us in contributing financially towards the campaign, either as a church donation or inviting individuals to make a tax deductible donation to Areopagus Trust.
* Begin planning how you can be involved as a church or in cooperation with other churches in your area.

CONTACT:
PROJECT OFFICER,
Rick Birch
PO Box 318, Belmont 6984
Phone 9479 6711
Email: jaalwa@biblesocietywa.com.au

BUS FOR SALE

2008-08-20T09:26:00.006+08:00

Toyota Coaster Bus 19 seater - (June 1991) was previously licensed to carry 30 primary school kids. Odometer: 213, 720km (only done 2,650km since purchased off South Perth CoC in Feb 08). Manual – 4 cylinder Desiel, with air conditioner, roo bar and tow bar.
The bus is in good condition and has just passed its annual road worthiness inspection. Recent works include: new water pump, hand brake, repair to seats and a new tyre. The registration is valid to the end of January 2009.
Asking price around $14,000. Monthly repayments may be considered.

Contact Mark Jones

Warnbro Community Church

Ph: 9593 2133 or 0410 844 880

Email: mark.jones@warnbro.org.au

South-West Worship Conference

2008-08-18T11:48:00.002+08:00

beyond these walls
Southwest Worship Conference 18 October 2008

Circle 18 October 2008 on your calendar and get ready for Beyond These Walls, a worship conference specifically for Southwest churches.
We are excited to announce that Singer/Songwriter Colin Battersby will be our keynote speaker for the conference. Colin was formerly a musical director with Youth Alive in WA and is a sought after speaker and worship leader both in Australia and overseas. Colin has been involved in various recording projects and has had worship songs released at home as well as in the US and in Europe.
Beyond These Walls will provide worship leaders, musicians, multi-media operators and other creative arts teams an opportunity to hone their skills and gifts for the service of the Lord Jesus Christ. You may be considering worship ministry for the first time. This would be a great day for you also.
You can now register online (See below), and also sign up to our mailing list. You may also want to check out Colin's ministry at his web site.

Together for the cause of Christ

Pastor Wayne Field

Event Details
_________________________________________
Australind Senior High School Performing Arts Theatre [MAP]
Break'O'Day Dve, Australind
TIME/DATE:
10am-4pm Saturday 18 October 2008
(Sign in from 9.30am)
investment and key dates
$45 per person before 1 October 2008 (Includes lunch)
$55 per person from 2 October 2008 (Includes lunch)
Registrations close 10 October 2008
___________________________________________

Hymn Books needed

2008-08-15T13:21:00.000+08:00

The South Bunbury Church of Christ Seniors' Group will be holding a seniors service in October set in the old format of Churches of Christ. The leaders of the group would like to use the old Churches of Christ Hymn Book. This book was published in 1974 and is version 2.

If any churches have some hidden away and would like to pass on, please contact Ellen Cahill on either 9791 1586, 9727 2053 or mobile 0407 136 178. Thank you!

book review

2008-08-15T11:48:00.002+08:00

The Five Most Important Questions (You Will Ever Ask about Your Organization)by Peter F. Drucker with Jim Collins, Philip Kotler, James Kouzes, Judith Rodin, V. Kasturi Rangan, and Frances Hesselbein (Jossey-Bass, 2008)

An intellectual giant, Peter Drucker was arguably the foremost authority on management during the last 50 years. His writing displayed a special gift for simplicity, and his style steadily pushed the reader to take action. Not content merely to hand out knowledge, Drucker always took special care to map out steps for application.

The Leader to Leader Institute chose to publish Drucker's work, The Five Most Important Questions, primarily to educate nonprofit leaders. Throughout his life, Peter Drucker admired nonprofits for their noble intentions and keen awareness of community needs. However, it frustrated him that organizations in the social sector commonly failed to craft sound strategy or achieve measurable results.

A collaborative effort of the Leader to Leader Institute, The Five Most Important Questions is presented as an organizational self-assessment tool. It is designed for the company wishing to reexamine its foundational beliefs. Throughout the book, essays from the likes of Jim Collins and James Kouzes supplement original text from the genius mind of Peter Drucker. The contributing authors accentuate the high points of Drucker's message without cluttering it with excess text. In fact, the book has barely 100 pages.

As the title suggests, the book is organized around five simple, but all-important questions:
1. What is our mission?
2. Who is our customer?
3. What does the customer value?
4. What are our results?
5. What is our plan?

Each question is addressed by Drucker and then unpacked by another leadership expert. The final twenty pages drill down into more detailed questions that point back to the five initially posed by Drucker.

From start to finish, The Five Most Important Questions preaches fundamentals. Drucker & Co. challenge leaders to revisit their organization's core identity, and call upon them to shore up ambiguity and incongruence. Quotable proverbs abound, but the book's brevity makes skimming for them unnecessary. The entire text can be absorbed in an hour or two.
A masterful "how-to" manual, the The Five Most Important Questions gives big-picture guidance, targeted to executive leaders in the social sector. The book earns praise for the clarity and focus it provides. It's an essential handbook for entrepreneurs, particularly those in the nonprofit arena. In addition, the The Five Most Important Questions is a great tool to reorient organizations that have stagnated or drifted off track.

Amahoro Conference, Africa

2008-08-12T09:03:00.001+08:00

Amahoro... ever heard of this?
It is a conference in Africa, primarily for Africans, but not exclusively. Last year 80% were indigenous Africans. BUT - the themes and speakers caught my attention.
"Post-colonialism" - Being Christian, our way!
Toward a gospel of reconciliation.
Cultivating Missional Living.
Justice in South Africa ... and more.

And names like McLaren, Annmie Bosch (Yes, widow of David Bosch!), Emergent Village and other people and groups come together to form this group.

Look at this -
The vision of Amahoro Africa is to see a vibrant and effective network of African leaders working together throughout Africa to further God’s Kingdom on behalf of those suffering from physical and/or spiritual poverty. We hope to facilitate an environment in which these leaders will be able to join their strengths together, combine their learning and pool their resources to release the justice and mercy that Jesus spoke of and exemplified in His life.

This looks great in my opinion!

Anyway I [Scott] have been meeting a bit with Andrew Rigg, a great guy from down Binningup way (Aghh Binningup...those good old Binningup youth camps in the early 90's!)
Andrew has started Day4 Community Aid and Development and is like a rep for Amahoro in Australia, along with Fuz Kitto and others.
OnEARTH is looking at teaming up with Day4 to see a bit more interest in getting some people over to witness this wonderful missional, grassroots indigenous happening called Amahoro and then connect it with a trip into Rwanda to serve a local church seeking to do just what Amahoro is all about - Incarnational Mission!

Why not visit the Day4 site and make some inquiries about joining the trip next June, and it you want to really go the next level, inquire about doing the OnEARTH missional discipleship course alongside this whole experience!

Jesus All About Life Weekly Bulletin

2008-08-11T14:52:00.007+08:00

This Tuesday night churches in the Kalamunda Shire will be meeting to pray together for their area, and to pray for each other as they plan for Jesus All About Life. The prayer meeting will be held at Maida Vale Baptist Church, 24 Edney Road, High Wycombe at 7.30pm. This is open to anyone who wants to come and pray together. Prayer is the heart of Jesus All About Life. We want to see churches all over this state praying together, not just for Jesus All About Life, but to use this as a catalyst to begin praying together for the State of Western Australia and for your local area, that Jesus will become known. Let us know if you have planned a prayer meeting for your area.

Have you begun training people for mission? When you register for Jesus All About Life you will get a DVD that you can use to train people for sharing their faith. Please make use of this tool, because it does not just relate to Jesus All About Life, but will be a valuable training tool for your church in any situation. Register today on http://www.jesusallaboutlife.com.au/ to receive your Training DVD.

Please continue to pray about the financial needs of the campaign and consider how you can assist to reach our goal. Donations to the Areopagus Trust are tax deductible.

CONTACT:
PROJECT OFFICER - Rick Birch
PO Box 318, Belmont 6984
Phone 9479 6711
Email: jaalwa@biblesocietywa.com.au

STATE DIRECTOR

2008-08-11T13:59:00.001+08:00

SITUATION VACANT - STATE DIRECTOR

Part time paid position

Closing date 18th August

For full details contact INTERSERVE ph 9383 9066

Nurses Night

2008-08-11T13:55:00.001+08:00

NURSES NIGHT

Thursday 21st August 7.30 pm

Hear from -
o Robyn Edwards – Bangladesh
o Rosemary Peacock – Bangladesh
o Kelly Taylor – Pakistan

Venue: INTERSERVE office, 61 Marlow St Wembley

More news from World Convention

2008-08-11T13:40:00.004+08:00

All around the Aussies have made a mark at Nashville!

In addition to the citations mentioned in a previous blog article, Sonny & Fran Graham have also been recognised with the Sir Garfield & Lady Grace Todd Citation for 40 years' service to the wider community. Ash and Anji Barker also received this citation for 15 years' work in the slums of Bangkok with UNOH.

Reports received have indicated that those attending are having a great time of tremendous preaching, fabulous music, and many workshops to attend. Over 2000 people were expected to attend the communion service on Sunday afternoon.

The next World convention will be held in Brazil in 2012.

Mission To Halls Creek, spare seats.

2008-08-08T21:12:00.001+08:00

I am a part of a group of people heading to Halls Creek for a mission trip in October.
We are going by bus 3 days up 3 days back and 6 days in town.
It will take place in the Oct school holidays and will cost you $850 (transport food and bed)
If this is way off your budget, come and talk to me if you feel this is something you are meant to do.
Some are coming as part of the 14 week OnEARTH course, this is not a requirement unless you so desire.
We have had some need to travel by plane, and these 3 or 4 seats are what has become available.
Please send this around your circles or pass it on to a person you know would love this. (18+)

Urgent reply required.

Scott Vawser
scott@youthvisionwa.org.au

Minister Vacancy

2008-08-08T10:58:00.004+08:00

Asquith Church of Christ is seeking to call a Full Time Senior Minister for 2009 and beyond. Located in northern Sydney, we are a small church of around 80 weekly worshippers of mixed ages whose vision is “Motivated by God’s love, our desire is that others come to know Christ and together we’ll be equipped to serve.”

In order to live out this vision more fully we have been through an 18 month period of discovery and changes through a program called Intentional Interim Ministries. We have installed a new leadership structure, statement of faith, core values, and a new desire to see God at work in our local area. The last piece of the puzzle is calling a new Senior Minister who can lead us to achieve God’s vision and mission for Asquith.

The Successful Minister will have gifts in Leadership, Administration, Teaching and have a passion to empower the local church to achieve God’s dreams for them.

Please send your resume’s to the email address below. If you would like to discuss the role further or to receive more information about our Church please email office@asquithcofc.org.au or contact our Associate Minister, James on 0403572276. Our Church profile is available for you to download and look at as well.
Applications close on the 14th September 2008

Perth Men's Convention '08

2008-08-08T10:50:00.000+08:00

Hi,
Questions about ‘Manhood’ have been in vogue for nearly two decades. Gone is the “Marlboro Man” stereotype – strong, quiet, independent, Driza-Bone & Akubra. But what has it been replaced by? Sensitive new-age guy? Good-around-the-house man? Stylishly dressed “metrosexual” male?
Or forget the stereotypes, why don’t we just compare ourselves with each other to work out a real man is?
But is there such a thing as an authentic man anyway?
It’s not just our generation that is concerned about Manhood, God has always had an interest in it. At the very start of the Bible we read, “male and female he created them” (Gen 1:27). In the beginning God made a race of two sexes, male and female. And in his word we find what it is to be authentically human, both male and female. Registrations for the Perth Men’s Convention 08 are now open, click here for more information.

I look forward to meeting with you at this year’s Perth Men’s Convention and being challenged, and sharpened by God’s word, to be godly, authentic men.
Gordon Killow (Chairman PMC)
For the PMC Committee: Ray Arthur, Julian Bull, Ross Fraser, Wes Jacobs, Gordon Killow, Nick Stark and Michael Van Oudtshoorn.

Child Safe Training Coming Soon!

2008-08-07T13:30:00.001+08:00

The next Childsafe Training is
on

Sunday 14th September
at South Perth Church of Christ
from 2 - 4pm.

A letter and a 2008 Childsafe Training DVD has been posted out to our
churches this week, so watch your mail box!

What's on at VOSE?

2008-08-04T11:42:00.001+08:00

Check out the upcoming events at VOSE LEADERSHIP
http://vose.baptistchurch.net.au/Events/tabid/208/Default.aspx

World Convention News Update

2008-08-01T12:07:00.001+08:00

News received from Graham & Freda Carslake ....

Special citations were made to 4 West Aussies by our World body tonight. Avon & Deslee Moyle with Ross & the late Helen Norling were recognised for their outstanding work over 30 years with our indigenous ministries by the World Convention.

We celebrate this wonderful recognition with them.

Retreat at New Norcia

2008-07-31T13:50:00.004+08:00

Dayspring present a retreat for Ministers

at the New Norcia Monastery

Monday 25th August to Thursday 28th August, 2008.

Brian and Patricia Stitt will be leading the retreat.

Accommodation is in the New Norcia Guest House – all meals and linen provided.
Cost - $320 (concession $300).

Please contact Dayspring for more information or to register.
info@dayspring.org.au 9376 1400

Cornerstone Induction

2008-07-25T12:01:00.003+08:00

Lee Sykes will be inducted as Pastor of Cornerstone Church of Christ in Busselton in a service on on Sunday 10th August, 9:30am. Friends and supporters are welcome to attend.

All those at COCWA wish Lee and Cornerstone all the best with this new ministry.

Baldivis Leadership and Ministry Conference

2008-07-25T11:37:00.002+08:00

The Baldivis Church's Annual leadership & ministry conference is being held at The Baldivis Church on Saturday 16th August 2008, 8am - 3pm. Details are as follows:

Leadership stream - Dr John McElroy (Churchlands).
Children's Ministry - Pastor Tania Watson (South Perth).
Small Group Ministry - Pastor Russell Smith (Hepburn Heights CCC).
Youth Ministry - Pastor Pete Roberts (Mandurah).
Sunday Service & Events Logistics - Amanda Powell (Riverview)

Register by email info@baldivischurch.org.au or phone 9524 2805 - payment options - early bird (before 4th August $35.00) - registration $40.00 - couples $70.00 - groups of five from one church $35.00 per person.
Registration includes morning tea / lunch / afternoon tea / & conference materials.

This represents a very affordable and excellent training event.

Church Pews Free or ridiculously cheap to good home

2008-07-25T10:44:00.008+08:00

Due to space issues, Inglewood Church of Christ needs to offload 20 church pews in good clean condition. They are NOT wood, but steel frame with cushioned seat.
For further details, please contact Inglewood Church of Christ Administrator Jenni Millman jlminni@hotmail.com or 0408951152.

What's happening at Inglewood ?

2008-07-23T14:32:00.008+08:00

Hi All,

You may have heard some rumours about Inglewood Church of Christ merging with a Baptist church and giving them everything we have - not all true, but not all wrong either.

As ICOC looked at how we could best move forward to becoming an even healthier church it became clear that we just didn't have the resources to do it well. As we considered our options (which included - closing to release funds for church planting - merging with another COC - continuing as is) a discussion occured with the local Baptist church in Bedford. Due to where they were at, their values, mission focus and passion, it became clear that a merged church would be a good move for our members, for evangelism, and for the kingdom. So that's what we did.

We have been meeting for three weeks now and it has been awesome. There is a wonderful sense of God's presence, harmony and blessing. It was a huge step of faith but so far so good.

Regarding the rumours -

Yes, we will be called Inglewood Community Church
Yes, we are meeting where ICOC has been meeting for the past 2 1/2 years (at the Inglewood Community Centre)
Yes, we will still be using the facilities in 6th Ave for our weekly activities
No, they didn't get everything. In consultation with Mark Edwards (the Baptist Pastor) the people, ministries, assets and resources will be a part of the merge, but we want to honour the Churches of Christ heritage, so the building will be given to COCWA with a request that Inglewood Community Church be honoured when the facility is eventually sold.
Yes, we will be a Baptist church.
Yes, our official launch will be on the 21st September.

Bless you all and if you have any further questions please give me a call.

Colin Craggs
04 22 89 44 79
ICOC@bigpond.com

POSITION VACANT

2008-07-18T10:52:00.002+08:00

WEST AUSTRALIAN STATE DIRECTOR

Interserve, a contemporary and vibrant mission agency working in Asia and the Middle East, is seeking to appoint a State Director for its West Australian office.

The successful candidate will have a heart for global mission, be an excellent communicator, have good pastoral skills and be committed to Interserve’s mission, vision and values.

This is a part-time salaried position
Suitable men and women are encouraged to apply.

A full position description is available on request from
Interserve WA
Ph 9383 9066
waoffice@interserve.org.au

Individuals and Communities transformed through encounter with Jesus Christ
http://www.interserve.org.au/

2008 Global Leadership Summit

2008-07-17T14:52:00.002+08:00

The Global Leadership Summit is fast approaching. COCWA has a group booking at the discounted price of $99 each. If you would like to attend, but haven't already registered, give Sue a call at the Ministry Resource Centre on 9471 8500.

The dates are 10-11 October at Swan City Church, but we will need to know names as soon as possible to finalise our special in-conference booking prior to August 1.

Click on this link for further details - http://willowcreek.org.au/gls08_dates .

A Message for Art Lovers

2008-07-17T13:32:00.003+08:00

Four paintings by Pauline Moran, have been donated to Subiaco Church and are on display in the Subi cafe. Why not pop in and take a look.

Pauline is a talented and well known Aboriginal artist who grew up at Roelands Village. I understand that her works featured in the recent Aboriginal Art Exhibition.

Invitation - Morawa's 50th Birthday

2008-07-14T12:19:00.008+08:00

Morawa Church of Christ

50th Birthday Celebration

13/14 September 2008

Saturday evening BBQ at Gutha Hall
Sunday - 10.00 am service "Let these walls speak"

Bring photos, your stories, your memories!

Confirm your attendance before Sunday 7th September by contacting Graham Carslake 9447 7425, Des Croot 9246 1087 or Noelene Carslake 9971 1267.

"Home of the Wildflower Country"

COCWA Courses

2008-07-14T12:16:00.001+08:00

Bedford & Inglewood Churches Join Forces

2008-07-11T14:34:00.008+08:00

In a move to become more unified and become better equipped in working in the community, Bedford Baptist Church and Inglewood Church of Christ have announced that they will merge under the new name Inglewood Community Church, with the first service taking place on 6 July.
“Over a number of years, Bedford Baptist Church and Inglewood Church of Christ have discussed the possibility of merging into one unified congregation. The parallels in our culture and kingdom focus are obvious, as are the complementary nature of the two communities,” said Mark Edwards, former Bedford Baptist Senior Pastor now based at Inglewood Community Church.
He will be supported by Colin Craggs (Senior Pastor at Inglewood Church of Christ), who will take on the role of Associate Pastor until he takes on a leadership role in mission work in India early next year.
Inglewood Community Church will have an affiliation with the Baptist Union and will also honour its Church of Christ heritage. As per Church of Christ practice, communion will be celebrated every week.
Both congregations are unanimous in their support of the move, while also recognising their will be sadness at leaving behind facilities which have served them well for many decades. The new church will meet at Inglewood Community Centre, where Inglewood Church of Christ has already been meeting for two years.
It is expected that there will be a celebration service sometime in September when representatives from both denominations will be asked to attend.
Pastor Mark Edwards believes this is a model for not only sustainability, but also with a kingdom focus. Both churches have a culture of being outward focused and believe this merge will only benefit the long term work of causing community transformation.
Bedford Baptist Church are in the process of subdividing and selling their present facilities to enable them to build a Community Performing Arts Centre, containing a multi-media focused auditorium, a child friendly cafe and a dance floor. Eliot Vlatko will also continue as an Associate Pastor and Quentin Gribble will continue as children’s worker at the church.

Photo courtesy Inglewood Community Church

New Testaments for Outreach

2008-07-11T13:53:00.001+08:00

The Bible Society has produced NIV New Testaments, at a bargain price, for use in outreach.

The God and You New Testaments contain the full text of the New Testament plus helpful introductory notes to explain in a straightforward and practical way how a person may respond to God's love.

They are available for $1.95 each, in cartons of 40.

For more information, or to order, contact the Bible Society:

Telephone 1300 139 179

Web: http://www.biblesociety.com.au/

Mail: The Bible Society in Australia, Locked Bag 3, Minto Business Centre NSW 2566

2009 Rwanda Trip

2008-07-11T13:07:00.006+08:00

Day 4 are seeking expressions of interest for team members on their 2009 Rwanda trip. The 2009 tour will also include attendance of the Amahoro Africa gathering in Johannesburg South Africa where the gospel of reconcilliation will be explored and celebrate in the context of the emerging, post colonial church.

This trip includes a guided learning experience designed to help participants assimilate their experiences in Africa in terms of their own life (as ministry) back home in Australia. You can read more about Day 4 Community Aid & Development Inc. here -> http://www.day4.org.au/. You can hear the experiences of some past Cross Cultural Awareness Tour participants here -> http://rwanda.day4.org.au/. You can learn more about Amahoro Africa here -> http://www.amahoro-africa.org/.

All enquiries to Andrew Rigg (of Binningup Beach Christian Fellowship) on 0413 995 280, 9720 1215 and deepsky@oceanbroadband.net. There are limited places available, alternative packages involving just the Amahoro Gathering or just the Rwanda tour are also available.

Andrew Rigg
Managing DirectorP: (08) 9720 1215
M: 0413 995 280
E: andrew@day4.org.au
W: www.day4.org.au

Help Break the Poverty Cycle in Central Africa ... Visit http://www.day4.org.au/ and donate!

Humans cannot live by images alone

2008-07-11T10:48:00.001+08:00

The meaning of any visual image is dependent on language and therefore relationships. Without language, an image remains dumb. It is precisely because humans are relational that images are transposed into dialogue, almost instantly, within human community. Images require conversation. Through conversation, relationships are formed, transformed and the ethical is given content and traction within human life.
An image lives in human experience through words. Even a silent soliloquy or reflection is already a discourse that will likely become a dialogue or part of a dialogue in human relationships. A visible image cannot remain visible without becoming invisible. Images must become invisible words if they are to live in human memory, experience, interpretation and meaning.
Biblical testimony is everywhere adamant that humans cannot live by images alone but by every word that comes from God.
The Word became visible flesh, making visible the invisible. Yet what is visible is only recognised through the invisible, the Spirit, who comprehends the invisible. What becomes visible in Jesus Christ is established in profound invisibility and intimacy in Pentecost. The unseen is seen by agency of the unseen—the word illuminated by the Spirit—even as these enable the unseen One to become a visible image in our lives.

Also for your interest, a website article: Beauty, creation, glory and grace
Beautiful things can awaken human inklings to the possibility that beauty is given by God. We can add images to such inklings from phenomena that engage and caress our senses. Yet these are also tenuous or uncertain as to God who invokes personal faith.

For a related article on aesthetics, faith and Christology, see: Lord of the between
We can juxtapose anything in a thought, such as mermaid, tinned sardines and coffin. This is a source of creativity. It is also a source of confusion about the meaning of life as humans combine diverse phenomena in the quest for meaning. Accordingly, art can both generate and obfuscate meaning.

Other articles for your interest and use

Dr Stephen Curkpatrick
Churches of Christ Theological College

Sports Stars Declare Their Christian Faith

2008-07-10T14:27:00.010+08:00

Eleven of Australia’s top athletes and sporting stars feature on a new DVD produced by Bible Society as part of ‘The Prize’ – a sporting edition of the New Testament.

The DVD is introduced by the two ‘Jasons’ – Jason Smith former captain of the Sydney Kings and now with the ‘South Dragons’ and Jason Stevens, former player with the Cronulla Sharks and now NRL Staffer. All the sportsmen and women featured on the DVD talk of their Christian faith and commitment.

The DVD provides more than just interviews, it gives an insight into each athlete’s training regime, how they cope with the pressure of their game of sport and how they stay motivated. Each athlete was filmed on location around Australia, producing a world-class Christian Sports DVD.

As well as interviews and other material, the DVD contains footage of each athlete involved in their sport. Featured on the DVD are:

Jason Smith – Former captain of Sydney Kings, now with South Dragons
Jason Stevens – Former Cronulla Sharks Rugby League play and now NRL staffer
Allison Shreeve – World Wind Surfing champion
Aaron Baddeley – Professional Golfer – currently in Top 20 world rankings
Brad Thorn – Rugby Union player with the Crusaders. Brad has represented Australia in Rugby League and New Zealand in Union
David Simmons – Cronulla Sharks Rugby League
Deb Lovely – Commonwealth Games Weight Lifting Gold medalist
Joey Peters – Matildas – Womens football team
Mark Seaby – West Coast Eagles AFL
PJ Marsh – Brisbane Broncos Rugby League and 2008 origin representative
Andrew Swallow – North Melbourne AFL

Jason Stevens was instrumental in encouraging Bible Society to produce the DVD to go with ‘The Prize’ New Testament. “Jason suggested we do more than just interview Christian athletes,” said Producer/Director Martin Johnson. “He wanted to include additional segments on each athlete’s training and fitness regime and to also ask them how they dealt with the pressures of elite sport,” he said.

“The DVD menus enable the viewer to just watch each athlete’s story, or by selecting another menu, watch them in training or as they talk about the pressures of the game,” Martin said. “It’s a great way of ‘adding value’ and in total there is over four hours of content,” he added.

Each athlete’s testimony is also reproduced inside the New Testament with their Testimony Card available as a PDF on the DVD.

Bible Society is very excited about this new product. With the Olympic Games coming up in August, this will be a great resource for Churches, Christians and those involved in all forms of sports ministry.

For more information contact Ken Doran (08) 9479 6711

New Youth Vision WA Director

2008-07-04T11:17:00.001+08:00

Dear All

On behalf of the Chairman Jim Sharp and the YV Executive I am pleased to announce that Mr Rod Thom Youth Pastor at South Perth Church of Christ and long-serving member of the YVE will take up the position of State Director YVWA.

A panel consisting of Jim Sharp, Leigh McIntosh, Scott Vawser and Neale Fong interviewed candidates last week and after confirmation with the YVE, Rod was offered and accepted the position.

Rod brings many years of experience at the youth ministry level of the local church, having been one of the original YV interns appointed over 10 years ago. He has served on the YVE for some years as well.

Rod will work with the YVE in implementing a redefined and re-focused direction for YVWA.

He will officially commence in 2009 when Scott Vawser and myself relinquish our respective roles. Rod will however be heavily involved over the coming months as we transition the organisation.

Please join me in congratulating Rod and praying for him and Leanne and the family as he prepares for this exciting role.

Yours sincerely

DR Neale Fong
Director YVWA

Invitation - Mission Dinner & Meetings

2008-07-04T09:38:00.006+08:00

DR SALEEM MASSEY is a renowned Church planter and psychologist from Pakistan. Dr Massey has planted 9 churches within the Pakistan Christian Evangelism Services and has a membership of around 3,000.

In addition to the meetings shown on the leaflet below, there will be a -

Meeting for Ministers
12.30 – 2.00 pm
Tuesday, 15th July
Dianella Church of Christ
68 Waverley Street, Dianella

Further details from Barry Ryall 0418 177 191

The (s)word that divides in calling to life

2008-07-03T13:59:00.002+08:00

The word of God is unlike our words of assertion, protest and self-justification that are eventually dissipated among a welter of words. The word that endures is also a word that divides, for if by our words we convince ourselves that our projects, plans and ambitions are durable, such words deceive us and will be severed by the word that endures beyond all our words. Biblical testimony reminds us of our exposure to another word otherwise than our own. The hidden words of our hearts too, are open to scrutiny. Beyond the perennial oscillation of clarity and ambiguity concerning our expressions of truth and goodness, the word of God discerns and judges our way. We can never stand on our own ground and assume it is stable or enduring. History and human experience tell us it is not. Scripture confirms this continually.

The word of God divides our thoughts and exposes our mortality within any human illusion of adequate self-standing (Heb. 4).

The Word, the risen Christ and the sword of his mouth (Rev. 1 & 2), is the only source of enduring words and aspirations that can inform our intentions and decisions with veracity. This same (s)word is a necessary preface to our experience of grace. The gospel tells us no less.

Also for your interest, a new website article: Why Christian Scripture is Christian ScriptureDid Scripture precede the Church or did the Church precede Scripture? If Scripture preceded the Church, then Scripture is the definitive point of reference for the Church. If the Church preceded Scripture, then the Church is the definitive interpreter of Scripture. So which preceded which?

Other articles for your interest and use

Dr Stephen Curkpatrick
Churches of Christ Theological College

The Christology we want?

2008-07-02T14:52:00.000+08:00

Another reflection from Dr Stephen Curkpatrick (CCTC) ...

"Human wholeness varies according to how humans are perceived. Such perceptions are formed through culture, time, region, traditions and contemporary concerns. Jesus Christ has always been depicted by Christians within particular expressions of transformation toward wholeness. Yet any such expression may have been derived, partially or completely, from some other ideal or interest of human existence—religious, political or cultural—even if unwittingly. Our desire for wholeness, personal or social, can shape and in turn be shaped by selective criteria from a diminished Christology. Is there then, integral correlation with New Testament testimony to Jesus Christ who calls us to wholeness otherwise than by selective, even competing variations of wholeness? In the quest for relevance, does our Christology have blind spots, ceasing to be redemptive in a world of obvious compromise and confusion concerning human wholeness? If Jesus Christ represents a disturbing presence amid our expectations of and personal responsibility toward others, he also represents the necessary transformation to undertake such responsibility before God. In contrast to our self-confident adjudications, the scope and acuteness with which our presuppositions are truly challenged depends on the degree to which Scripture speaks otherwise into our lives and communities. Jesus Christ refuses assimilation on our terms and continues to speak as the transformative word of God."

Also for your interest, a website article: Jesus between Paul and MarkThe reality of Christ as other in transcendence is everywhere present in Paul as the risen one and in Mark as the one who stills a storm, walks on water, feeds multitudes, raises the dead and is endorsed by God as “my Son, the Beloved” in baptism and transfiguration.

(For a related article, see Jesus without Christ)
Other articles for your interest and use

Dr Stephen Curkpatrick
Churches of Christ Theological College

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR GIVING

2008-06-20T14:37:00.010+08:00

Rodney Lavater, Administrator - The Esther Foundation, writes .....

"Wow! What an amazing second year [as an Incorporated Body] it has been for the Esther Foundation, its staff and all of the program participants. With many graduates completing the program, one nominated in the WA Youth Awards 2008 and another winning both the Young People Who Care Award 2008 and a Variety Club scholarship, it really has been exciting for all involved. Add to this the extremely successful inaugural Grand Gala Charity Ball at the Government House ballroom, our own Esther Dance Crew performing at festivals and other events, our recent UNSEEN art exhibition opened by the Rt. Hon. Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi which uncovered the artistic talents of many program participants, and the educational aspect of the program becoming Curriculum Council approved to enable the young women’s journey through recovery to be credited toward further study, and you have a busy year indeed.
On top of all of this, Esther Foundation Founder and Director, Patricia Lavater was one of four Finalists for Australian of the Year 2008 and was last weekend named Western Australian Citizen of the Year 2008 for her work in the community over many decades and her role at Esther. One of the accolades mentioned whilst receiving the Citizen of the Year award was Patricia’s initiative, commitment and enterprise to found and operate such an extensive program for young women without government funding, relying instead on the business community of Western Australia to financially support these young women’s recovery and the delivery of the program.
With this, we ask all of our supporters and potential supporters to consider giving financially to this organisation at the close of this financial year of 2008. Your support will assist with the operation of 7 residential premises in South Perth, presently housing more than 36 young women and their children. In addition to this, your support will provide a safe environment for young women in crisis; offering group therapy, counselling and mentoring, as well as an extensive recovery programme that includes recreation, arts, sport, music, journaling, reading, life-skill training, Curriculum Council education, winter and summer camps for all residents and offers leadership training, employment, outpatient support for former residents and outreach support for husbands, family and friends of clients.
We thank you for your time and your consideration for support of this important work in the community for young women and children. "

Mobile 0411730227
Fax 0893686828
Email rod@estherfoundation.org.au

“Those that give to the poor of spirit will lack nothing” Proverbs 28:27

Divorce, The Bible & Domestic Abuse

2008-06-20T14:05:00.006+08:00

Check out this book at http://www.notunderbondage.com/
There are also several free articles that should be of help to Christian victims/survivors and their supporters. Should you wish to distribute some hard copies of the flyer, contact -

Barbara Roberts
Author of "Not Under Bondage: Biblical Divorce for Abuse, Adultery and Desertion"
http://www.notunderbondage.com/
email: barbara@notunderbondage.com
ph: +61 3 5336 2174fax: +61 3 5336 2178
post: 715 Skipton St, Ballarat, Victoria 3350

Introducing: “The Poverty and Justice Bible”

2008-06-20T13:48:00.011+08:00

A groundbreaking Bible that megaphones what God has to say about poverty and injustice.It's a Bible to surprise a watching world. To engage compassionate young adults and to enrich your own life.
· This new Bible highlights more than 2,000 verses, revealing God's heart for the poor and oppressed.
· Easy to follow, accessible and fresh Contemporary English Version Bible text.
· Includes a unique 32-page guide with in-depth studies from equality to education, wages to water and practical suggestions on what to do next.
· Builds on issues raised by influential Christians and public figures including Bono, Rob Bell, Jim Wallis and Tony Campolo
This new resource will be available soon through Bible Society, although only limited quantities are coming (approx 4 weeks) and beyond that would probably be 8-12 wks approx.

RRP - $ 29.95 (plus postage and handling if required). To order please phone (08) 9479 6711 or email biblewa@bible.org.au

Ken Doran Executive Officer
1 / 23 Belgravia St. Belmont WA
PO Box 318 Belmont WA 6984
Ph: (08) 9479 6711 Fax: (08) 9479 6733
Skype: kendoran1 http://www.biblesocietywa.com.au/

Pleasant Sunday Afternoon

2008-06-20T12:14:00.002+08:00

The Experience of Faith as the Focus of Faith

2008-06-20T12:05:00.004+08:00

In the quest for acceptance in a skeptical age, nineteenth century theology increasingly focused on the experience of faith instead of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Yet atheists responded by suggesting that human experience tells us nothing but the interpretations given to it—God is merely a human perspective writ large. Famously, Feuerbach suggested that if love can be ascribed to God, love might instead be God.
It is possible to project onto God and love whatever we wish. New Testament testimony reminds us that we have very little idea of God without Jesus Christ. We also have a limited grasp of love. As the human face of triune communion, Jesus Christ gives specific shape to God as love and shows us what love can be like in human life.
Without focus on Jesus Christ, we may well be projecting our inclinations and desires—social, political or religious—onto God. Without Christ giving shape to the Christian claim that God is love, we may also be projecting these same inclinations and desires onto love, making it our god.
Feuerbach’s response showed that human experience can be interpreted without reference to God. In Christian testimony, the ultimate point of reference is not human perspective but the word of God declared in Jesus Christ.

Also for your interest, a website article: Groping after God
In his Areopagus address, best known for its reference to an altar inscribed to an unknown god, Paul refers to the Athenians as extremely religious or superstitious. Is he commending them? Paul is deeply distressed over their fateful idolatry rather than excited about their spirituality.

Other articles for your interest and use

Dr Stephen Curkpatrick
Churches of Christ Theological College
www.cctc.edu.au

Medical Outreach Trip to India

2008-06-20T11:57:00.003+08:00

(Sept 27th – 12th Oct 2008)

Cosmos HealthCare is looking for volunteer Team Members for our upcoming “Women’s Health Team” travelling from Perth to South India later this year. We still have space for people with various skills i.e. Doctors, Nurses, Physio’s and non-medical support staff. We are a local Christian organisation committed to delivering quality health care while reflecting the love of Christ into people’s lives.
If this interests you don’t hesitate to call Jason James on 0407996463. Check us out online visit - http://www.cosmoshealth.org/.

We also have trips going to Africa and India in 2009.

Message of Thanks

2008-06-19T11:06:00.002+08:00

Melba, the family and Bunbury Aboriginal Christian Fellowship would like to thank everyone for your prayers, support and love throughout this difficult time. We are standing strong in the strength of the Lord and continue to ask for your prayers as there is still much to be done, especially in the church. May God bless you all.

Love Melba, Wallam Family, and
Bunbury Aboriginal Christian Fellowship

Come With Me To The Kimberley!

2008-06-19T10:25:00.002+08:00

I am joining a team of people spanning many generations (meaning there are young people and not so young!) to the Kimberley Region of WA - Halls Creek specifically in the Sept/Oct School holidays.

BUT WAIT THERE'S MORE -
I am wanting people to join me in a missional discipleship course, just one night a week in the 6 weeks prior and post the trip to Halls Creek. This course is explained well here. And starts mid August.
More on the journey here.
It will be a life changing experience.

Dare you to contact me!
Scott Vawser

Executive Minister

2008-06-18T16:46:00.003+08:00

Make a significant contribution to building the Kingdom
Exciting and challenging phase in WA Church growth
A brilliant opportunity to use all your expertise & skills

How would you like to be at the forefront of an exciting period of growth and development for Churches of Christ in WA?

An outstanding opportunity exists for an inspirational and wise leader to take the helm of our association and lead us into the next major chapter of our history.

Key areas of responsibility include

Empowering and reproducing clergy & lay leaders
Strategic utilisation of human and physical resources
Mentoring of key pastors
Fostering and nurturing Church Planting/Mission
Developing and communicating a strategic vision
Networking and team building across churches and related entities
Promoting and implementing a governance model

This role is clearly focused on strategic leadership, not management and would suit a spiritually mature person with significant local church experience, proven leadership abilities, deep understanding of governance issues, a strong mission/church planting motivation, highly developed communication skills, and enthusiasm for the mentoring and development of leaders, along with personal qualities of compassion, grace and sensitivity.

Reward for your successful involvement includes:

Making an important contribution in Kingdom growth
The satisfaction of passing the baton to new leaders
Working with a strong, supportive Governing Board and fantastic office staff.
Taking on complex challenges and accomplishing substantial outcomes
A generous remuneration package (including salary packaging/vehicle etc)

If you feel inspired and challenged by the opportunity presented here, then please apply today by calling Gordon Bassett on (08) 9524 2805 or Graham Johnston on (08) 9388 1030 for a confidential discussion.

Invitation to Engineers

2008-06-13T14:52:00.002+08:00

Invitation - FREE lunch time meeting

2008-06-13T14:40:00.004+08:00

Dear Christian Leader,

I am pleased to invite you to join us here at South Perth Church of Christ in a FREE lunch time meeting with Paul Becker.

Where: South Perth Church of Christ, Cnr McNabb Loop & Murray Sts, Como
When: Monday 14th July, 2008 from 12 noon for light lunch, through to 2.30pm
Cost: FREE (donations accepted but not expected - this is a kingdom initiative of SPCC)
RSVP: You must reply in person by Friday 11th July, 2008 on 08 9313 1600 or irene@spcc.org.au
Limit: 50 people only

Paul is the Founder and President of Dynamic Church Planting International and is going to present the DCPI mission and teach on the Twelve Biblical Principles of Church Planting which forms the foundation for DCPI training programmes. If you would like to learn more about Paul and the DCPI great ministry look at their website www.dcpi.org

DCPI’s incredible vision is the “Equipping leaders, churches and associations to impact the planting of one million dynamic churches to reach the world for Christ." They seek to fulfill their vision through a series of training tracks offered to leaders around the globe. In keeping with the multiplication principle of seeing churches multiply through daughter church planting, the DCPI training strategy involves a multiplication of leaders. They certify leaders worldwide who reproduce DCPI training in their regions of the world. These leaders are a part of their Fellowship, a group of church planting leaders who have joined the DCPI vision and are reproducing training and developing church planting leaders across the nations.

I certainly hope you can avail yourself of this great kingdom opportunity. I hope to see you as we learn more about Church Planting together.

Yours seeking to make a Positive Kingdom Difference,

John Bond
Senior Minister

Food for Thought

2008-06-13T13:25:00.004+08:00

“We have done only what we ought to have done”

Everything about the parable of a slave performing an expected duty and not something praiseworthy (Lk. 17:7-10) seems antithetical to our modern sensibilities of equality, autonomy, self esteem and leisure. Yet we might pose some different questions than those so readily available in our contemporary sensibilities, however enlightened. For example, where do we learn obedience in genuine humility? This is a pervasive theme in biblical tradition culminating in “not my will, but your will be done” and “he was obedient, even unto death.” To whom do we legitimately express a relation of genuine obedience? Alternatively, where are we trained to recognise the limits of autonomy, self-regard or dilatoriness? Church, state or social institution, system or ideal, appropriately, are not given unconditional deference. Here, the parable can only have value in its silent resonance with kenotic or self-relinquishing sense—serving Christ who is present in the particularity of human lives. In the epistles, this is frequently expressed as an imperative—in love, be subject to one another. The parable image provides a pin-prick into the eternal. Incredulity at the demands of this parable may be generated by its very earthy, seemingly contemptible image of obedience. Yet this image suggests another reality for those with ears to hear.

Also for your interest, a website article: Faith as gift and response
We are called to respond as if everything depended on our response and as if everything depended on the grace of God despite our freedom for response. This is the paradox of faith.

Other articles for your interest and use.

Dr Stephen Curkpatrick
Churches of Christ Theological College

Part-Time Truck Driver Wanted

2008-06-09T09:57:00.005+08:00

Bethanie Care Services are seeking a part-time Laundry Truck Driver.

Suit semi-retired, fit person
Mr/Hr license required for 6 ton truck; will change to C class in the future
28 hrs per fortnight, Mt Lawley area
6.30 am-10.30 am
Roster:- Mon, Wed, Thurs Week1; Mon, Wed, Thurs, Sat, Week 2. Flexible

Please phone Tony on 043 898 9524 for further information

Week of Prayer for Zimbabwe

2008-06-04T10:28:00.005+08:00

Monday, June 16 - Sunday June 22

Each of our churches are encouraged to set aside time in their services on Sunday June 22 (or whenever you meet) to publicly pray for the people of this nation. This Sunday precedes the controversial presidential election in Zimbabwe on June 27. Please refer to the email forwarded to your church on 4 June, for background information and detailed prayer points.

Both National Council and Global Mission Partners (GMP) commend this emphasis on prayer for Zimbabwe to you and your church community.

New Testament Launch

2008-05-30T14:06:00.005+08:00

You are invited to the exclusive launch of ‘The Prize’ - a unique sporting edition of the New Testament. ‘The Prize’ comes complete with an inspiring new DVD that draws inspiration from the testimonies of eleven leading Australian sports heroes. They reveal how their faith gives them strength to perform under the spotlight… and how it leads them from the temptations of celebrity lifestyles!
Join us at our launch event and ensure you are among the first to own this very special edition of the New Testament and DVD. To book your tickets to this free event click here or call (08) 9479 6711. Tickets are limited so reserve you seats today.

Bible Society

Ken Doran - Executive Officer
1 / 23 Belgravia St. Belmont WA PO Box 318 Belmont WA 6984
Ph: (08) 9479 6711 Fax: (08) 9479 6733

Skype: kendoran1 www.biblesocietywa.com.au

China Earthquake Appeal

2008-05-30T13:56:00.001+08:00

Christians and Global Warming

2008-05-29T13:42:00.002+08:00

See you tonight at 7.30pm at the Earthwise Centre Subiaco (Next to Primary School)

for Hot Gospel.

In the meantime have a read of this great article -

10th December, 2007

BEN THURLEY

Global warming and associated climate change has been referred to as an environmental challenge, and an economic challenge. Before it is either of those things, though, it is a moral challenge.

The poorest countries and communities - who have done least to cause the problem of climate change - will suffer its effects earliest and worst, while the wealthiest countries - who are largely responsible for the problem through 150 years of carbon-intensive development - will be shielded from these effects by virtue of their wealth. And because climate change will become increasingly severe as the temperature gets warmer, then the longer we go without taking strong, cooperative action, the greater the risk that we will condemn generations as yet unborn to pay the social, ecological and economic debt on the tab we are now so recklessly running up.

NEPAL: Ben Thurley says that the effects of climate change will soon be felt in places like Nepal where disaster planning is already underway in preparation for the moment when Himalayan lakes, fed by glaciers melting at a faster rate than anywhere else on Earth, burst their bounds. PICTURE: Nepali Maanish (www.sxc.hu)

"If we are to exercise our Christian duty of care for the poor, then we must respond to climate change."

By ratifying the Kyoto Protocol, the Australian Government is in a position to take a constructive new approach, and practical actions, to tackle climate change. Kevin Rudd ratified the Kyoto Protocol as his first executive act. The UN Climate Change conference in Bali burst into sustained applause after the announcement, but the applause has now faded, and tough questions remain about what Australia will do next.

Australian Christians, too, must take a constructive and supportive approach, because the lives and livelihoods of the most vulnerable members of the human family - the poor and the unborn - are at stake. The research is clear, and my friends and colleagues are increasingly able to point to the reality. As this year’s UNDP Human Development Report argues: “In the long run climate change is a massive threat to human development and in some places it is already undermining the international community’s efforts to reduce extreme poverty.” If we are to exercise our Christian duty of care for the poor, then we must respond to climate change.

TEAR Australia’s developing country partners are already able to point to the impacts of climate change on poor and vulnerable groups and communities.

The Anglican Church of Kenya has established a community development program in the Eldoret Diocese, ... read the rest here.

ChildSafe Web Seminar Opportunity

2008-05-28T13:59:00.004+08:00

We know that we have geography against us in our attempts to help people understand and implement ChildSafe, so we've been busily preparing to offer web-based seminars as an effective alternative to getting together in person.
The seminar is on the use of our web tool Safety Management Online for your congregation, and includes opportunities to ask questions.
It's on Thursday 5th June 2008, 7:30pm - 9:00pm EST (5:30pm in WA, 7:00pm in SA). There is no cost, but advance booking is required. You will need a computer with broadband internet, and will be given details to dial into a teleconference to hear the presenters. Bookings by Friday 30th May.

More information, and making a booking...

Alpha Training Day

2008-05-28T13:25:00.000+08:00

Training Opportunity

2008-05-28T11:43:00.017+08:00

Vose Leadership is hosting another brilliant training and growth opportunity. Andrew Olsen will be presenting three separate days of highly interactive team and leadership learning in June. For more information read below and see the attached flyer and registration form. To register, or for further information, contact Katherine on 9361 9962 or email leadership@vose.com.au

How Andrew Olsen describes himself...
Andrew Olsen is a balding mid-40’s gent with a mortgage and a family van. He has a couple of Psych/ Counselling degrees and has counselled, trained and consulted in the government, churches and bible colleges since his 1987 escape from UWA. After several years of self-employment as a leadership trainer and counsellor he went a bit weird and took his family overseas as missionaries. He and his wife Kathy train and counsel missionaries in a missions HQ in Florida. The five of them live on the grace of God and supporters in the most radical organisation he’s yet found. He is an inventor, bible scholar and iconoclast, having various opinions on things he has never even thought about. For his winter visit to Perth his Vose training guarantee is of a thinking adventure you’ve never had before.

What we want you to know about Andrew Olsen...
He has led thousands of participants in his interactive workshops for more than 15 years
He has been awarded three medals by the Australian Government for his work in culture change and increased effectiveness in major Public Service organisations
He has an MA Counselling and a BA Psych.
He has a highly interactive training style which means you will find it hard to forget what you learn (or how you learnt it!) You are unlikely to be bored

Team! Day 1
The DNA of Human Relationships : The unseen patterns beneath all our differences
Designed especially for Leaders, Teachers, Students, & Knowledge Workers.
You can learn how to discover language patterns in your own conversation (and that of couples, work teams, media scripts and international politics) that can be shown to determine the fate of meetings, marriages, markets and mass movements across cultures. The way we construct our responses to one another is a far greater cause of what follows than you have ever imagined.
This highly-interactive workshop will offer a fascinating tour of psychology, anthropology, literature, media, religion, philosophy and your own personal experience.
“We are dangerously fascinated by our personalities and the differences we think they can explain between us. This fascination is just one part of our blindness to what is really going on between us and what we are really up to. We may have different personalities, learning styles and cognitive maps, but these are all merely means to an end. A deeper force is at work.” Learn how it works.
Positive and dramatic changes in work and home lives have been reported by hundreds of participants as a result of discoveries they have made during this seminar.

Team! Day 2
Culture by Design : How to create a healthy enduring culture in teams, organisations and communities.
Designed especially for Leaders, Teachers, Students, & Knowledge Workers.
We know the conventional team development theories, strategies and buzz words - ‘empowerment’, ‘participation’, ‘delegation’. Yet research shows that they don’t work! (You probably already know that!) In this seminar you will see exactly why they don’t work, and what does work.
Culture is not created by imperial decree, and not even simply by good example. Rather, it is created more microscopically – it grows out of the social DNA of each individual conversation and of every topic in every meeting.
Leaders can learn how to strategically and carefully shape the relationships of the people in their care. ‘The Teamwealth Stairway’ will be presented, practiced and experienced as an alternative paradigm to the usual team development models.
Positive and dramatic changes in team and work environments have been reported by many hundreds of participants as a result of discoveries they have made during this seminar.

Principles of Leadership
The Creation of Intelligence : How to Multiply and Transfer Intelligence with Language
Designed especially for Leaders, Teachers, Students, & Knowledge Workers.

Session 1 “Synthetic Intelligence?”
“I am surprised at how reflective I sound - how I generated and then integrated so much complex thought in such a short time!” After just 6 minutes of using the DAPMID synthetic intelligence framework, you can join thousands – from pre-teens to professors - who discover this delight.
Session 2 “Is that a Great Question?”
How can I create this quality of thought in others? Learn how to design questions that synthesise reflective, creative or strategic intelligence in your staff, students, children, and team colleagues - even your boss!
Session 3 “Transcending Conflict”
Learn how to get buried in the trickiest conflicts you can muster, and then think your way out.
Session 4 “Do Smart Meetings really exist?”
Learn how to run the worst, and then the best meetings you have ever seen.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

2008-05-28T11:03:00.002+08:00

Churches of Christ in WA has a considerable quantity of archival records received from churches over the years, some of which remain only partially collated because the ill health of our Archivist, Merle Peacock prevented her from completing this work.

We are desirous of completing this task and seek the help of anyone who would be interested in working with a group of people under the supervision of a leader, to collate the remaining data so as to preserve these valuable records.

Please call Don or Sue on 9471 8500 if you would be interested in being part of the team.

MV Doulos

2008-05-28T10:39:00.006+08:00

OM Australia

Doulos Down Under 2008

Last Aussie Tour

Brisbane: 31 July - 17 August
Sydney: 21 Aug - 08 Sept
Geelong: 11 Sept - 29 Sept
Albany: 4 Oct - 8 Oct
Fremantle: 10 Oct - 28 Oct

The MV Doulos will be in Australia in August and September. They will be looking for volunteers in a number of roles. Go to the website for more info.

You might also like to visit http://www.secondwind.net.au/ to find out about other various seminars, events and courses.

ChildSafe Training Invitation

2008-05-28T10:05:00.002+08:00

A ChildSafe training night is planned for Tuesday 1st July, 7.30 - 9.00 pm at The Baldivis Church. Supper will follow.

If you are interested in joining with Baldivis Church on this occasion, you are very welcome. For further details contact Bronwyn Bassett on (08) 9524 2805 or email bronwyn@baldivischurch.org.au.

What is Required?

2008-05-28T10:03:00.002+08:00

Another reflection from Dr Stephen Curkpatrick (CCTC) ...

What is required concerning the good? The eternal word comes to mortal humans—to do what is right, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God.
What is required is bracketed between mortality and humility before God. To do, love and walk are each coupled with appropriate complements—do what is right, love mercy and walk with God. Walk is qualified by humbly, appealing to the initial imperative addressed to mortal humans. This is given as a divine word—God has told you—for what mortal can assume to be the source of an enduring word?
To do, love and walk are qualified in their expressions—uprightness as a predicate of God that is also judgment in its absence; mercy that defuses not perpetuates enmity between partisan positions concerning the good; walking that implies a life-long journey of deferential learning with an inclined ear for a word otherwise than our own before the ultimate source of our existence.
The good that endures cannot be given effect where there is enmity in contrast to love of mercy, hubris in contrast to humility, and closure on a mere version of the good instead of walking with God as the source of an enduring word for all human good.

Also for your interest, a website article: Politics and the reign of God
The failure of Christian community to be distinguished from the machinations of politics is perpetuated by over-estimation of politics and under-estimation of human transformation focused in Jesus Christ as the definitive expression of human dignity.

Other articles for your interest and use.

Dr Stephen Curkpatrick
Churches of Christ Theological College

It is This Thursday Night!

2008-05-27T10:22:00.002+08:00

DVD Available

2008-05-26T12:39:00.005+08:00

Hi there,
Many of you were there at the ministers retreat and /or the council meeting when I played the OnEARTH 4 minute promo DVD.

I have about 8 copies of this (I can get more) available to show around the churches.
Already we have whole churches and organizations indicating an interest both in obtaining the study package for their own missions programme or sending numbers along on one of the GMP organized ones. This second option is of particular interest to smaller and country churches.

See the video clip on the front page of the website - here.
If you like, I can send a copy to you, if you don't like it... I can come myself, much better looking than the guy in the video!
Email admin@onearth.org.au

Youth Vision Rolls Out New Website

2008-05-23T13:08:00.002+08:00

Finally Youth Vision WA have a new web site. This will compliment their news site blog, similar to this one.

See their new site at www.youthvisionwa.org.au

Obvioulsy it has just been launched and is yet to be 'filled out'. If you have video or photos or articles you would like to add, please email admin@youthvisionwa.org.au

Good News

2008-05-19T09:16:00.000+08:00

From Amnesty International -

We welcome the announcement last night by the Australian Government that it will abolish the Temporary Protection Visa (TPV) regime.

Amnesty International has consistently maintained that the TPV regime has been a clear breach of Australia's international obligations towards refugees who have fled to Australia seeking protection.

By ensuring all recognised refugees will now receive permanent protection, Australia has taken a significant step towards reaffirming itself as a country that respects the human rights for some of the world's most vulnerable individuals.

"Since the inception of the TPV regime in late 1999 thousands of recognised refugees have had to endure a life of limbo, unnecessarily separated from there family, before finally being granted permanent protection," said Dr Graham Thom, Amnesty International Australia's Refugee Coordinator. "For the approximately 1500 refugees still on TPVs this announcement will enable them to get on with their lives and hopefully reunite with loved ones, many of whom they have not seen for years."

We also welcome the decision to increase Australia's offshore humanitarian program. Ongoing violence in Iraq and Dafur, as well as repression in Myanmar has led us, along with a number of other organisations, to call on the Australia to increase its intake.

However, millions of refugees continue to seek sanctuary from violence and persecution around the world. Help us to continue our campaign to pressure all governments to protect the rights of refugees and asylum-seekers. Your support will help us achieve extraordinary change such as this exciting news.

ChildSafe/Safe Church Training for all Volunteers

2008-05-12T14:07:00.004+08:00

All churches need to have their volunteers aware of healthy practices and risk management. It protects those under the church's care, the volunteer themself and also the church.

Who should be involved? Anyone involved in volunteering in your church. This includes those involved in leadership, but particularly applies those involved with minors (ministry to anyone under 18 years old).

A 1½ hour training session will help ensure your volunteers operate in a way that helps provide a safe environment for those under our care, while also ensuring that they and the church minimise risky or unsafe practices.

The next training date is Sunday, 8 June at 2.00 pm at South Perth Church of Christ, in the office area. Please RSVP by 12.00 noon, Friday, 6 June.

Esther Foundation Update

2008-05-12T11:04:00.005+08:00

Click on image to enlarge.

YOUTH VISION WA

2008-05-12T09:50:00.004+08:00

Expressions of Interest
For the Appointment of State Director

Potential candidates are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in undertaking the role of State Director, Youth Vision WA from January 2009.
YVWA is the youth ministry area of Churches of Christ here in WA and leads and coordinates the activities which support, resource and equip leaders for ministry with youth for our WA churches.
The position will be accountable to the team know as the Youth Vision Executive (YVE).
The YVE has described a preference for a part-time role combined with someone involved in a hands-on ministry role in a local church.
Other functions which YVWA carries out will be complimentary to the Director’s role.

Format for EOI

Submit in writing a response on your ability and experience to fulfil the stated roles.
As part of the above provide your CV and 2 Referees.
Closing date is close of business 13 June 2008.
Email to nfong@wafc.com.au
A shortlist of candidates will be asked to go through a formal interview process for the role.

Any enquiries can be made to Neale Fong on 0411 550 560 or Jim Sharp on 0407 977 704.

Youth Vision Director's Role

Leads the ongoing development of YVWA’s Strategic Plan (vision) and the implementation of it.
Oversees the YVWA Coach, SYG Coordinator and administration.
Ensures that all YVE members are empowered to serve in a role/portfolio that serves the YVWA vision.
YVD needs to ensure that YVWA is committed to serving the Local COC churches/ministries regardless of their shape.
YVD champions the ongoing development of strong and healthy leaders.
YVD to foster partnerships that are in line with YVWA’s strategic directions.
YVD needs to ensure the long term financial future of YVWA by having key/gifted people who focus on our financial security which then serves YVWA’s vision!
YVD to regularly facilitate youth pastors professional development so that our youth ministries are challenged to be relevant and effective.
YVD to encourage all of our youth ministries to be up to the YV quality control standard.
YVD to work closer with COCWA and making sure that our vision and mission is in line with theirs so that our work is recognised and resources by them too.

Morning Tea Invitation

2008-05-08T11:08:00.007+08:00

In 1996 a community minded couple, Bev and John Lowe saw a need to feed Perth’s street people. Fuelled with empathy and compassion, they provided meals in the park for about 30 people a week. MANNA INDUSTRIES WAS BORN! ...... In 2007 Bev and John received the Pride of Australia Award and on 26 January, 2008 they were recipients of the Order of Australia.

Want to find out more about this ministry, then read on .....

Quiet Days at Nathanael's Rest

2008-05-06T10:19:00.004+08:00

Healthy & Growing Churches

2008-05-06T10:00:00.002+08:00

Live-In Retreat

2008-05-05T14:43:00.000+08:00

Celebrate and Retreat!!

2008-05-05T11:25:00.003+08:00

What an odd combination of words – so "refresh" seems more appropriate than “retreat”!

The 2inspire Celebration was a great night – a good mix of worship, testimony and challenges. As one who used the new railway line for the first time to get there – I can definitely confirm the convenience of the venue! In spite of the long weekend and some chilly weather conditions, around 1400 people came along.

The Pastors’ Refresher was also our best yet as a combined event with about 190 registrations. Tim Hanna spoke clearly and with conviction at both events.

Profound thanks to the teams who put these together for us.

My only concern? For those who did not come – perhaps you could email me or the office – or respond here (yes it may be controversial!) and let us know why you did not come and what we could do to make it more attractive for you – be constructive, but tell it like it is!!

Blessings
Barry

churches@cocwa.asn.au

Churches of Christ Youth Leaders Reteat

2008-05-02T11:39:00.003+08:00

Call or email Scott Vawser for more details
0419892735
scvawser@gmail.com

Indigenous Ministries

2008-05-02T10:25:00.001+08:00

Indigenous Ministries
Would you know how to effectively communicate with Indigenous people? If the answer to this question is no or probably not, become more informed and enrol in our Indigenous Ministries unit commencing Semester 2, at the Bible College of Western Australia. At the completion of this unit, you will be able to apply various ways of communicating with Indigenous people through drama, music and art. For more information about this unit, or to simply enrol, please ring the Bible College of Western Australia on Ph - 9453 9189 or email us at post@bcwa.wa.edu.au.

Hot Topic.

2008-05-02T09:39:00.002+08:00

I had a discussion this week at the excellent COCWA/BAPO Ministers retreat with a pastor friend of mine on our differences related to the global warming topic.
Well we both put out our case strongly and went our separate ways in good relationship, but I continue to be alarmed about where we as believers stand on issues of environmental action.

It is my conviction that of all the people in the world that should be at the forefront of environmental action and concern it should be God fearing bible believing Christ followers!
Maybe you agree, maybe you don't, but either way why not join a TEAR open forum and discussion panel on the 29th May.

FT POSITION VACANT

2008-05-01T13:07:00.007+08:00

FINANCE OFFICER

Churches of Christ in WA Inc.

Churches of Christ has a full time position in its office in Perth for a person with highly developed book keeping skills and a good knowledge of accounting principles.
The person will have the potential to progress to a management position in the near future. Working in a close team environment, the successful applicant will have responsibility for the oversight of all financial administration in the office including record keeping, monthly reporting to several Executive Boards, compliance monitoring and fund management. Well developed customer relations skills are essential and a thorough knowledge of Quickbooks or a similar package is important.
A 3 year contract will be offered at a salary negotiated in keeping with experience and qualifications. Handover and assistance with end of financial year preparations from the previous officer will be available!

For further information call the office on 9471 8500 or email churches@cocwa.asn.au

2009 Diary Date

2008-05-01T10:19:00.001+08:00

<<- Please click on notice to enlarge.

Vision for Ministry Meetings - June 2008

2008-04-30T11:08:00.004+08:00

Greetings in Christ. We are writing to let you know about the Vision for Ministry initiative - a national initiative aimed at encouraging Christians to consider entering vocational ministry, either in a full or part-time capacity.

During June 2008, local churches around Australia are being encouraged to run a Vision for Ministry meeting for their members. The meeting would be run "in-house" by either the senior pastor or one of the other staff members.

The aim of the meeting is to help your members in thinking through whether they should consider full or part time vocational ministry.

Leader’s and Participant’s Manual: To assist you in running a meeting in your church, a leader’s manual and participant’s manual and a suggested programme have been produced. You are free to use these or follow your own format. If June is not suitable, you are free to run your meeting at another time in the year.

Suggested Evening Programme:
7:30 Introduction & Bible Study
8:00 Gospel Ministry – Some Practicalities
8:30 Testimony
8:45 Personal Reflection
9:00 Small Groups
9:20 Prayer
9:35 Conclusion and Feedback
9:45 Finish

There is a brochure that can be downloaded at www.gospeloutreach.com.au/resources/VMBrochure.pdf

Registration is free - however, you may wish to make a donation to help cover some of the costs in running the programme. To register simply print off the registration form and post or fax it to us. Alternatively you can register over the phone by calling 02 9980 9913.

Resources: Two recently released resources looking at the issue of rasing up gospel workers are:-

* Passing the Baton (Colin Marshall) - This book looks at what is involved in running ministry apprenticeships in your church or organisation. Cost - $30.00
* Evangelising Australia Conference CDs - Raising up Gospel Workers. These six CDs look at what is involved in raising up, training, caring for, sending and funding gospel workers. Cost $47.50.

The Mission Action Planning Manual is still also on sale at the special price of $45 (reduced from $70) ......

May God bless you and your church.
Yours in gospel partnership,
Greg Middleton

Further Information - Gospel Outreach Ministries
21 New Line Rd West Pennant Hills NSW 2125
ph 02 9980 9913 fax 02 9980 9914
info@gospeloutreach.com.au http://www.gospeloutreach.com.au/

Aussie Ute Promotes Jesus

2008-04-30T11:01:00.001+08:00

The Aussie ute has become a promotional tool for a major evangelistic campaign to be held in Western Australia later this year.
Organisers of the Jesus All About Life Campaign are taking advantage of the first visit to WA during May of the V8 Utes as part of the V8 Supercar Series to be held at Barbagallo Raceway.
The centrepiece of the campaign launch will be a ute driven by Christian driver, Andrew Fisher who races under the banner of Jesus All About Life Racing.
During his visit to WA Andrew Fisher will be involved in a range of activities planned by the WA Campaign Committee in an effort to lift the profile of the Jesus All About Life Campaign in WA.
Organisers hope to have more than 300 West Australian churches of all denominations involved in the campaign in October and November this year.
During his visit to WA Andrew will be involved in two major campaign launches, a regional launch in Bunbury on Sunday, May 4 and a State launch in Forrest Place in the city on Tuesday, May 6. Heads of WA churches have been invited to participate in the Forrest Place launch.
In addition to these events during his time in WA Andrew will be participating in a breakfast event in Rockingham on Saturday, May 3, schools events in Warnbro and Safety Bay High Schools on Wednesday, May 7 and a Sausage Sizzle at Maida Vale Baptist Church on Sumday, May 11 starting at 5pm.

Andrew’s Itinerary:

Sunday, April 27. Meet Andrew Fisher in the foyer of the Perth Convention Centre before and after the 2Inspire Celebration Night 2008. Celebration starts 7pm. Guest speaker: Tim Hanna. Guest band: One for All Big Band. A combined event of the Baptist and Churches of Christ.

Saturday, May 3. Andrew will speak at Breakfast at the Cruising Yacht Club, Val Street Rockingham, at 8am. Tickets $20 available up to April 24 from jaalwa@biblesocietywa.com.au or phone 0439 971 774.

Sunday, May 4. Andrew will be at the Australind Baptist Church, Australind Senior High School Performing Arts Theatre, Break'O'Day Drive, Australind, at 10am. Afterwards a Regional Launch for Jesus All About Life WA Campaign will be held at Big Swamp Park, Prince Phillip Drive, Bunbury, between 12noon and 2.30pm. Bring your own barbecue lunch.

Tuesday May 6. State wide launch of Jesus All About Life WA Campaign. Heads of Churches will be meeting for a lunch in the city before making their way to Andrew’s car in Forrest Place. Drop into Forrest Place between 2pm and 3pm to meet Andrew and see his Jesus All About Life V8 Ute.

Wednesday, May 7. Andrew will be visiting Warnbro and Safety Bay High Schools

May 9-11. Racing series, Barbagallo Raceway. Go along and join Andrew’s cheer squad trackside at Barbagallo.

Sunday, May 11. Beaut Ute Competition and Sausage Sizzle, Maida Vale Baptist Church, Edney road, Maida Vale. 5pm. Bring your ute. Andrew will show vision of his racing experiences, speak about being a Christian in the motor racing industry, and sign autographs. Ride the mechanical bull, video race games and other activities.

For further details please contact Project Officer, Rick Birch on 0439 971 774

Global Youth Outreach

2008-04-30T10:40:00.003+08:00

What colour is glory?

2008-04-30T10:37:00.001+08:00

Glory or splendour defies perspective and our criteria for beauty (aesthetics). Glory exceeds our words and our manipulation of light and space.
A transparent street of gold suggests something that exceeds our aesthetic sensibilities. What colour then, will give to glory its true glory? What shade could give adequate relief to splendour that has no shadows? What form could possibly convey presence that exceeds our need to frame the things that surround us?
Beautiful things can awaken human inklings to the possibility that beauty is given by God. Either by aural or visual tone, we can add images to such inklings from phenomena that engage and caress our senses. Yet these are also tenuous or uncertain as to God who invokes personal faith.
The beauty of holiness or distinction is not given to aesthetic judgment but decisions of the heart in response to pure love. Alternatively, aesthetic feelings can conjure idols that merely reflect the eye of a beholder, negating any call to distinction.
What colour is glory? Its pure manifestation, in tones of grace and truth, is given in Jesus Christ. We would not know life coloured by such glory if it was not disclosed to us in the initiative of God’s love.

Also for your interest, a website article: Believing in believing
Believing in believing is a religious imperative when God remains a higher reality behind the religious phenomenon of diverse expressions of belief. Yet is believing in believing an appropriate focus of faith?

Other articles for your interest and use.

Dr Stephen Curkpatrick
Churches of Christ Theological College

Member's DISCOUNT through COCWA

2008-04-30T10:23:00.003+08:00

Just a reminder of the annual Christian Management Association Conference being held in Bondi, Sydney, 2-4 June. See our previous post of 10/3/08 for further details - http://chat2gethercocwa.blogspot.com/2008/03/christian-management-association.html

To register at member's DISCOUNT through COCWA, please contact our office by 16 May, 2008 on 9471 8500, churches@cocwa.asn.au .

For more information see http://www.cma.net.au/conference/

Promotional Products

2008-04-30T10:10:00.000+08:00

Responding to Conflict

2008-04-29T13:48:00.004+08:00

PeaceWise is a Christian, non-profit, national organisation dedicated to helping people learn and apply biblical principles in seeking Christian solutions to the conflicts encountered in all aspects of daily living.

They are holding a training seminar in Perth from 4-8 August, 2008 covering the topics of Personal Peacemaking, Conflict Coaching and Mediation.

For more info about PeaceWise or their training sessions, visit http://www.peacewise.org.au/ or phone the WA Director Li Ai Gamble on 0413 053 511.

A limited number of leaflets and registration forms are available from the COCWA Ministry Resource Centre. Give Sue a call on 9471 8500.

HEALING MINISTRY

2008-04-29T13:42:00.004+08:00

Please click to enlarge ->>>

Chat2gether

Blog relocates

CCTC NEWS

COCWA ANNOUNCEMENT

Ministry Position Available

INVITATION

CONCERT BOOKING

Mental Health Course

AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN LOBBY (ACL)

video editing position

SPECIAL OFFER

Ministry Position Available

INTERESTED IN LABYRINTHS?

Invitation to attend Courses

Youth Vision - Hall of Faith.

Youth Vision Leaders Retreat - Huge Success!

JAAL WEEKLY BULLETIN

BUS FOR SALE

South-West Worship Conference

Hymn Books needed

book review

Amahoro Conference, Africa

Jesus All About Life Weekly Bulletin

STATE DIRECTOR

Nurses Night

More news from World Convention

Mission To Halls Creek, spare seats.

Minister Vacancy

Perth Men's Convention '08

Child Safe Training Coming Soon!

What's on at VOSE?

World Convention News Update

Retreat at New Norcia

Cornerstone Induction

Baldivis Leadership and Ministry Conference

Church Pews Free or ridiculously cheap to good home

What's happening at Inglewood ?

POSITION VACANT

2008 Global Leadership Summit

A Message for Art Lovers

RECOMMENDED READING

Invitation - Morawa's 50th Birthday

COCWA Courses

Bedford & Inglewood Churches Join Forces

New Testaments for Outreach

2009 Rwanda Trip

Humans cannot live by images alone

Sports Stars Declare Their Christian Faith

New Youth Vision WA Director

Invitation - Mission Dinner & Meetings

The (s)word that divides in calling to life

The Christology we want?

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR GIVING

Divorce, The Bible & Domestic Abuse

Introducing: “The Poverty and Justice Bible”

Pleasant Sunday Afternoon

The Experience of Faith as the Focus of Faith

Medical Outreach Trip to India

Message of Thanks

Come With Me To The Kimberley!

Executive Minister

Invitation to Engineers

Invitation - FREE lunch time meeting

Food for Thought

Part-Time Truck Driver Wanted

Week of Prayer for Zimbabwe

New Testament Launch

China Earthquake Appeal

Christians and Global Warming

ChildSafe Web Seminar Opportunity

Alpha Training Day

Training Opportunity

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

MV Doulos

ChildSafe Training Invitation

What is Required?

It is This Thursday Night!

DVD Available

Youth Vision Rolls Out New Website

Good News