Greetings …
This week we had some good news from the Premier and Victorians have begun the gradual easing of restrictions we have been living with for a while. This is most certainly something to be thankful for, but we still need to make sure that we care for our most vulnerable community members. It seems to me that when only ten can gather in church at once, we might not be back to our full Sunday services for a little while yet. I am certainly looking forward to the time when we are able to join in worship together back in our church building, and hope that this is not too far away. It will certainly be a day of celebration!
One thing that I have missed is joining with the gathered community in the Communion meal. If this is something that you have missed too, then please let me, an elder or your pastoral contact person know. We may be able to have small gatherings for communion even if we cannot all come together for worship just yet.
I also want to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everyone for their greetings, well-wishes, cards, photos and gifts on the anniversary of my first service with you. Thank you, too, to Harriet who spent time compiling it all in a wonderful PowerPoint slideshow which I would love to share with you when we are together again.
I remember my first service well, especially the warm embrace of the congregation on that
day. The love, encouragement and support made me feel part of the community where I
now have a real sense of belonging. As I have said before, it is a blessing to be numbered
among you – to journey with you as we experience together both the sadness and joy
of community.

Paul’s letter to the Philippians opens with a prayer which begins with the following words:-
“I thank my God every time I remember you”.
I certainly thank God for the blessing that you are to me, and I pray that we might continue to be a blessing to one another.
Thank you all for your love and ministry to me.
Blessings – Heather