MESSAGE FROM THE PASTOR
Tackling transitions

This past Sunday, we started our series on Joshua, which we have named Conquest. The main theme was focused on change and how we adapt to it. Here is a summary of the sermon and the most important points.

We are introduced to Joshua, who was Moses’ young assistant. He was willing to remain in God’s presence even after Moses had left. This was before God’s call on his life (Exodus 33:11).

Joshua had to let go of relying on Moses’ leadership and way of life. He had to realise that God was going to use him, not Moses, for the next phase of Israel's journey. This required “rites of passage” leadership experience for Joshua.

We must go through the same process if we want to discover our purpose.

Like the rites of passage, transitions consist of three distinct stages: 

• Separation

• Orientation

• Formation

A transition begins with an ending. Change means letting go of the old and embracing the new. Life has numerous beginnings and endings (every activity and relationship has a beginning and an end).

We need to honour endings, but not worship them.

We concluded by asking these questions:

• What kind of separation needs to happen? What needs to end? What needs to die?

• What orientation do you need? Redefined responsibility? Territory? 

• What formation needs to happen? Recommit to God's purposes? Precepts?

CHURCH SUNDAYS

Honouring our mothers

It's Mother’s Day this Sunday, and we will be recognising and honouring our mothers. We will also be talking about Rahab, an unlikely hero in the faith who was also a mother. 

1. Rahab’s courage as a mother:

   • Rahab was a mother, and her actions demonstrate incredible courage. She risked her life to protect her family by hiding the Israelite spies.

   • As mothers, we often find ourselves making sacrifices for our children—whether it’s staying up late to comfort a sick child or facing difficult decisions to ensure their well-being.

2. The Scarlet Cord: A Symbol of Protection

   • Rahab tied a scarlet cord to her window, signifying her faith and trust in God’s promise of protection.

   • Mothers also create safe spaces for their children—homes filled with love, warmth, and security. Like Rahab’s scarlet cord, a mother’s love provides a protective covering.

3. Inclusion and Redemption:

   • Rahab’s inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus reminds us that God’s grace extends to all, regardless of their past.

   • As mothers, we have the privilege of nurturing and guiding our children, helping them find their place in God’s redemptive story.

4. Lessons for mothers:

   • Be courageous. Just as Rahab stepped out in faith, mothers can face challenges with courage and trust in God.

   • Create a safe haven. Like the scarlet cord, let your love and protection be a visible sign for your family.

   • Embrace grace. No one is beyond redemption. As mothers, we can extend grace to our children and others.

So, this Mother’s Day, let’s honour the courage, sacrifice, and love of mothers everywhere—whether they are biological, adoptive, or spiritual mothers. Happy Mother’s Day!

COMMUNITY
Q&A: Get to know our team

Welcome to a new series where we get to know about the people who make Halswell Community Church tick. Our first victim is Rob McAuley, a Church Elder who I’m sure you will have all met… but just how well do you know him? He can build a house, but what’s he like in the kitchen? We put eight questions to him covering a range of topics.

How did you come to know the Lord?

It was a whole series of events, really. It started with Sunday school when I was younger. We used to go down to St. Stephen's in Shirley. The teacher there was called Harvey, and I remember winding him up calling him 'Harvey the Helictoper'. He booted me out into the corridor. When I was a little older, I was cursing in the backyard, asking God to reveal himself. 

When I was 18, God did reveal himself. I was with my girlfriend at the time and she and her sisters were doing a seance. It spelled out the Divine Light Mission. That's when I realised the power of the spiritual world and went in search of Christian things.

Another time was when my brother's girlfriend came down from Hamilton. She wasn't a great Christian example by any means, but she was brought up going to youth group and started talking about God and the Bible.

Seed after seed gets sown. God gives increase at the right time.

Have you got a favourite Bible verse?

I love the 'I am" statements in the book of John. All of them have great little meanings, but one that stands out is The Good Shepherd. I always enjoyed the line about finding pasture.

What do you believe God's gift for you is?

Passion. Being able to encourage others and spread the word of God.

Favourite thing about HCC?

Mato is a great pastor and very inspirational. Him and the people there, really. It’s a great community.

How would you spend your dream day off work?

I have a lot of those at the moment haha. I often spend some time reading some spiritual books to start with. That's very important to me, being the first thing. It's food and nourishment for the day. Then either heading out for a walk or a swim.

What was the last TV show, movie or book you really enjoyed?

I really enjoyed The Chosen. You can watch it on Netflix, or the first couple of episodes are on YouTube. A book I've been enjoying is 50 People Every Christian Should Know.

What is one important skill every person should have?

To have the ability to be wary of their own failings. That and being able to accept others.

Finally, what three celebrities or historical figures would you have over for dinner? What would you cook for them?

I’m not too interested in celebrities. However, I would have Daniel the Prophet, John the Apostle and David Jeremiah over for dinner. I’d skip the cooking and go with Chinese takeaways. What would Daniel make of ordering takeaways? I think he’d enjoy it and love a bit of spice.

YOUTH GROUP AND THE CASHMERE PROJECT
Prayers for our youth

Please share a prayer for our youth group as they continue to grow.

• We pray for Youth Group to develop and build a sense of community and trust among each other and with God.

• For individuals in the group to embrace reading scripture and praying for themselves and others consistently

• For us to integrate the community outreach through the council with our Youth Group programme, and that these kids will get to hear the gospel, some for the first time.

CONNECT

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This link can be shared to our newsletter website. Simply enter an email address and you’re subscribed to the HCC newsletter.

CHURCH SUNDAYS
Coming up at HCC

Here’s what is coming up on the church calendar:

• Sunday 12th May: Mother’s day

• Sunday 19th May: Baptism Sunday

• Thursday 23rd May: Big night out outreach (Youth group)

• The weekend of 25th/26th May: Holy Spirit weekend @ Te Waiora Retreat Centre

• Sunday 3rd June: King’s Birthday weekend

• Sunday 9th June: AGM

You can view a timetable schedule of upcoming sermons here.

COMMUNITY
Young Parents Life Group

The next family group will be held on Sunday May 19th, 2024. So far we have held two home groups and it’s encouraging to see families coming together.

CHURCH SUNDAYS

Baptism Sunday

The date is fast approaching for our baptism service. If you would like to be baptised, we would encourage you to sign up.

CONNECT
Prayer, Youth and Home Groups

We have a variety of home groups at HCC that cater for all.

Ladies home group
Meeting on Wednesday evenings.
Contact Paula for more info: [email protected]

Mens home group 
Meeting fortnightly on Thursday evenings.
Contact Richard for more info: [email protected]

Young professionals home group 
Meeting on Wednesday evenings.
Contact Anna for more info: [email protected]

Prayer group 
Meeting on Tuesday evenings.
Contact Mato for more info: [email protected]

Youth group 
7pm on Thursday at Seven Oaks School.
Get in touch with our Youth workers Zac (0284038758) or Sinead (0224193096) for more details.

GIVING

If you would like to contribute to HCC

You can make a donation to:

S.B.S Bank Halswell Community Church

Account: 03-1369-0389284-00

Ref: Tithes and offering

Particulars: Your Name