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I find this a most remarkable passage of Scripture. There are times in ministry, when praying for or with someone, that we feel at a bit of a loss to know exactly how to pray. During my time as a Chaplain at Royal North Shore hospital I ministered to a lady who had been a doctor in the hospital, and was greatly loved. She had a beautiful faith, and it was a joy to visit her.
One day I went into her ward to be told by the Nursing Unit Manager that this dear lady had lapsed into a coma, and didn’t have long to live. I sat by her bedside, read a little from the Scriptures, and began to pray, commending her to the love of God. Suddenly, in a very audible voice, without stirring, she said, “I’m still here!” I was so taken aback that I am not sure now what I did next, but I probably had a little laugh with her. It became a beautiful moment. She was that kind of person. She died a short while later.
That incident taught me so much. When ministering or praying with someone it is so important to be alive to the leading of the Spirit, and not presume. But there will be times when all we feel we can do is to give a simple blessing, and let the Spirit do the rest. The Holy Spirit will always be actively present when praying for or with someone in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, and will even pray for us. ‘And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying….’
I really do find that quite amazing, and reassuring? We probably all have had the feeling after ministering or praying with someone that we could have done better. How important, and uplifting it is to understand this beautiful work of the Spirit!
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So far we do not have any record of virus transmission related to our church service on Sunday.
One strategy we have used is cross ventilation. We will continue to do this as the weather gets cooler, so please keep this in mind as you choose clothing for Sunday mornings.
And wear a mask, please
To this point in time, we have been very successful at Wesley in responding to the coronavirus pandemic that has been with us for more than two years.
The movement of air through a building substantially reduces the risk of cross-infection. By opening doors and windows around the church, we move air in and out of the building and reduce the risk of airborne transmission.
This was quite comfortable in the summer months, but with the approach of winter it has the potential to cause discomfort. While we will do all we can to manage this, it is recommended that you dress warmly for church. If you dress as you would for a service outside the building you can remain comfortable, even on cold days.
The other successful strategy is the wearing of a mask. This is no longer mandatory, but is highly recommended by NSW Health.
Bryan Mullan — Safe Church Team
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Take Time Together Meditation Sessions suspended
Rev Carmel's Monday morning meditation sessions will be suspended for a time now.
August Rosters are now on the Roster page.
Confirmation Classes
If you would like to learn more about the Christian faith, Rev. Carmel will be conducting classes over the next few months
- Children's Baptism Classes will be over four Wednesdays, 27th July to 17th August, at 4:30pm.
- Adult Confirmation Classes will be scheduled in consultation with those who are interested.
- A Confirmation Service will be held on
Sunday 11th September at 9:30am.
Wesley Walkers, Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay
Saturday 20th August, meet at 9am in the car park.
Give Blood at Wesley
The Red Cross Blood Collection unit will be operating at Wesley Church on Monday and Tuesday, 22nd and 23rd August,
Monday 8:30 to 5pm, Tuesday 7am to 2pm.
Thereafter, they will be back in September, and then monthly at dates to be announced.
Click What it means to give blood for 2 pages from the Red Cross (in a new window).
Wednesdays@Wesley Hymn Singing is on at 10am, first Wednesdays each month. Next 7th September.
Winter Appeals Collections
We are collecting food and clothing items again this year. The Parramatta Mission collection is over, with 108 bags being delivered.
Thanks to all those who contributed.
We are still collecting for the Bill Crews Foundation (Exodus, Ashfield).
There are flyers in the Church describing what is needed
Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Uniting Church on our present site.
5th and 6th November 2022.
Newscope
is being produced, and are being emailed to members, or recent issues can be downloaded here.
Printed copies will also be available for those who return to church, and mailed to those who are unable to attend.
Donations and Giving:
Wesley relies entirely on the generosity of its members and friends for financial support.
Many members now prefer to use regular online offerings.
Meet a Member short bio of members
read more..
Members are invited to submit a short bio for Newscope in a 'Meet a Member' page. This is to help us know each other better, and make connections.
You can download a Word template to complete and email or give to Annette Smith.
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Newscope weekly newsletter is available for download here
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