MESSAGE FROM THE PASTOR
Pushing aside scepticism

This past Sunday, we officially started on John 14. The last two Sundays were special in a sense because we were just starting the year.

Week one was a call/challenge to abide in Christ as we started the year. We looked at the verses in John 15. Jesus’ promise to remain in us when we remain in him.

Cam did a very good job of challenging us the Sunday before regarding our service. He spoke from Ephesians 4. “God does not call the qualified,” he said, “but qualifies the called.” This has now led us to John 14, the first few verses themed “The Holy Unknowing.”

Just in case you have forgotten, or you were not there, here are the three holy unknowing things, which give us hope and life.

• Jesus’ solution to a difficult situation is not a recipe; it is a relationship with him. (vs 1-3)

• In the presence of Christ we are free, but that freedom can threaten us. Jesus is inviting us into a place of total surrender that leads to true freedom and peace. (vs 4-5)

• Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through him. (vs 6-7)

  

This coming week, we continue with the same theme: Jesus talks to Philip and the other disciples and tells them that he is in the Father. But the disciples are still sceptical. One verse in particular stands out;

So how do we live in the reality that God has given us authority to pray, perform miracles in his name, and proclaim the kingdom of God wherever we are, for his glory and honour?

Join us this Sunday and find out.

Mato

CHURCH SUNDAYS

Regarding the church grounds 🌿

As you may have noticed, Seven Oaks grounds need maintenance and upkeep, hence why I made the notice last Sunday.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered/offered names and contacts of people to help with maintaining the grounds. We have found someone willing to help, so in a few weeks, the place will look well-kept. The Seven Oaks administration has also contracted City Care to come and mow the lawns once a month and will be in contact with them shortly to book a date.

CHURCH SUNDAYS

A new format for the kids

On Sunday, we also had the opportunity to try our new children's ministry format of breaking the groups according to age groups.

While we did not have many children in attendance this particular day, it was encouraging to see the model working. Susanna and Emily did the intermediate program and really enjoyed that, as Margaret and Kirstie taught the younger ones. The feedback from all of them was that they enjoyed the model.

Once again, thank you so much to everyone who has graciously volunteered to help with the children's ministry, and we are hoping that you feel edified and encouraged as well during this time, and as you get to see the children grow in wisdom, stature, and in favour with God and with man (Luke 2:52).

COMMUNITY

Youth group and community engagement

The youth group began last Thursday as well. It was encouraging and exciting to see our young people back and spend an extended time with them. This week we embark on relaunching the Halswell Connections program at the Hub.

We will be visiting Halswell School next Wednesday afternoon to encourage the intermediates and their parents to sign on and come along. Please pray for our youth leaders, as we get ready for this program, which is one of our core goals this year, community engagement.

GIVING

If you would like to contribute to HCC

We really appreciate everyone who has been giving to HCC. It is because of your generosity that we continue to operate. So please know that we value each contribution and that we are grateful for each member individually.

You can contribute by either using the offering box at the entrance of the church or by giving online.

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