Weekly Bulletin: Staying connected as a church - 3 September 2023

Kia ora St John’s whānau,
 
The Gospel message bumps uncomfortably up against aspects of our culture, and our focus on the scripture this Sunday is a challenge for whether we will do something other than just ‘go with the flow’.

If you’re interested in pre-reading, the scripture passage is Matthew 16:21-28.
 
After our usual Morning Tea on Sunday, Benjamin Carter will play a short informal piano concert in the church. All are welcome to come and listen to some of the repertoire he will be playing when he goes to China later this week, for the Zhuhai International Mozart Competition. Stay for one piece, or more, as you like.

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If you can’t gather in the city, and you want to join the worship service via Zoom, here are the details to access the live-stream:
 
Zoom Meeting ID: 370 260 759
Passcode: worship
 
The link to join the Zoom worship service is below.

If using your phone: dial 04 886 0026 (Meeting ID: 370 260 759#, Passcode: 1560107#)

This is the link to the printable Service Sheet 

OTHER THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT...

CHURCH LIFE SURVEY

This is like the Census for all churches, every five years offering a snap-shot of the spiritual life of our church, and was conducted last Sunday 27th August. If you did not complete the survey, there will be one more opportunity to do so this Sunday after the service. The surveys will be analysed by the Christian Research Association and findings shared with us all so that together we can plan our way forward as a church.

WHANAU NIGHT

The next Whānau Night will be on Sunday 10th September in the St John's Centre.
For this we'll be focusing on compassion. Hope to see you there!

CLUBS DAY

We are dedicating a day to profile the various groups and committees that get stuff done for the mission of St John’s – this will be a celebration of our life as a church as part of our morning service on Sunday 17th September. This is a fun opportunity allowing us all to find out about activities across St John’s, and get more involved!
If you haven’t already been approached to promote your group, please contact Benji Galt or the St John’s Office.

THEOLOGY AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

The Theology Programme at University of Otago are offering a short course Theology And The Built Environment: Exploring the Connections Between Christian Faith and Architecture
Presented by theologian and former architect, Professor Murray Rae.
Friday, September 8th (7.00pm-9.00pm) and Saturday, September 9th (9.30am-12.30pm) at Wellington Central Baptist Church
Course Cost: $20.00 (including GST)

Register here: https://corpapp.otago.ac.nz/training/ce/course/26914/course/0/

APPLICATIONS OPEN

Can you pass on the opportunity for an organisation to apply for funds from our St John’s Edward Carter memorial special assistance fund?
The purpose of this fund is to assist people who need a second chance or a new start. Projects may be for local community or communities in the greater Wellington area or national in scope.
We welcome grant applications for up to $5,000 to fund projects which align with the grant’s remit. Applications are needed before the 30th September.
To apply or find more details, please see the ‘Grants’ page on the St John’s website. https://www.stjohnsinthecity.org.nz/grants

FOR FAMILIES LIVING IN THE CITY WITH PRESCHOOLERS

'Kids Connect' is an initiative of The Salvation Army, Cuba Street, in Wellington city, facilitating children enjoying a managed play time, in a beautiful play-space, while the grown-ups enjoy some time-out (or 'me' time). And attendance is free! Thursday each week, from 9.30am to 11.30am at 202 Cuba Street, in Wellington city. For more information email kidsconnect@salvationarmy.org.nz or see the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/1521686638659622

GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2023

The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand, is in Auckland from 27th September to 1st October. This is a gathering of commissioners from across our national Church that is held every two years. The General Assembly website ga2023.nz has information on the venue, registration costs, accommodation, FAQs, and much more. It’s being updated regularly with further information about the programme, and events during Assembly.
Not attending assembly? Get the daily email update, with a summary of key decisions, plus links to video of the business sessions for full context, plus other video and events including the installation of the new Moderator.
Sign up to receive this on the PCANZ website.

Teach us by Thy Cross that however ill the world may be, the Father so loved us that He spared not Thee.
– Charles Kingsley (1819-1875)
 
Allister