Text week This week's readings

Postcards from Kathmandu, Nepal

Rosters

Facebook:

If you’ve not yet followed us on Facebook please have a look. Our page has reflections posted nearly every day, and the ABC news report on St Paul’s, which has now had 2,761,170 views. That’s right, over two million people have had a look at us!

Getting Together: Every Week

  • Every Wednesday Morning Garden Group
  • Every Friday 5.30pm drinks by the fire pit [Weather permitting]
  • Every Saturday 8:00ish Community $5 Breakfast open to all

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Monthly Activities

  • 1st Mon 7.70pm LA/LMP Meeting
  • 1st Tues 10am First Tuesday Club
  • 2nd Thurs 8pm Contemplative Prayer
  • 3rd Mon 7pm Church Council
  • 3rd Tues 10am Elders’ Morning Tea

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During coffee check the notice board/table in the hall; it is regularly updated….

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Joining together for prayer at St Paul’s

Morning, evening and midday prayer are held every weekday in the chapel. 6.30am, midday and 6.30pm. All are welcome to share this time in a communal, sacred space.

HeartSong

We will continue with HeartSong on the first Sunday of each month.

Saturday Breakfast Hospitality and celebration of life at St Paul’s

Hospitality and celebration of life at St Paul’s We celebrate each Saturday morning with breakfast. Prepared lovingly by some members of the parish, delicious food is served with your choice of coffee. At just $5 you will not get such a sustaining breakfast with such delightful company anywhere else on in the world.

First Tuesday Club:

You are warmly invited to morning coffee at South Beach Café at 10.00am on first Tuesday of the month. Meet your friends from St Paul’s and bring others to the delightful venue and grassed area near the ocean.

The more the merrier!

Garden Group

Wednesday Morning is the time to turnout for the "Garden Group", it is a chance to catch up mid-week, share in some activities and hospitality, and ALL are welcome to pop in. All are invited to spend one hour each week in the garden watering or weeding. It is delightful to spend time in the garden and at this time of year we very much need to care the beautiful grounds, both before the fair and for the lead up to Christmas. If you are unable to spare the time each week please consider putting $5 or $10 in the watering can at the rear of the Church so we pay someone to help with this task.

The Good News to the Church in Beaconsfield

The Parish Council and the Nominators are thrilled to advise that Rev Stuart Fenner has accepted an offer for the position of Rector at St Paul’s, to take effect from 1st April 2018, Easter Sunday. We feel very fortunate to have Rev Stuart, his wife Helena and two sons joining us. He has had a background in teaching and youth and community work, and has been the Rector at the Parish of Swan since 2004. His principal ministry foci include meditation, music, children and youth, men’s ministry, social justice and community engagement. These past months spent in the period between permanent priests have been a rich and rewarding time. We now look forward to the next phase in our life as a Community and Parish. May we hold an openness as we look forward to Rev Stuart’s Commissioning Service and commencement of his ministry here at St Paul’s.

Banking Information for St Pauls

General Giving: BSB 706 001, account 30003006 – Anglican Parish of Beaconsfield Restoration Account: BSB 706 001, account 30008256 (not tax deductible)

Tax Deductible donations to National Trust BSB 306 089, account 41893259, reference: 1928 and your name

To make a difference...

IGWR It is in Giving that We Receive creating a support resource for the schools and orphanages in Nepal. Donations: BSB 706 001, account 30006088

Just Manna: supporting refugees and all the needy donations: BSB 633-000, account 151597085

Just Manna Incorporated - AGM Report- October 2017

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Parish Council

Parish Council meets monthly on the third Monday of the month at 7pm in the Meeting Room. Community members are most welcome to do so as visitors. Let Ronny know if you would like to attend and/or receive a copy of the minutes and speak to a Council member if you have an issue you wish to be raised. (Members: Martin McAllen, David Hawks, Christabel Chamarette, Laurel Ellis, Joan and Michael Jessup, Debbie Gwynne, Maureen Lucivero, Rodger Philpott. Contact numbers are in the directory)

Church Restoration

The church restoration work currently under way. Stage one (of four stages) addresses water damage over a long period of time. Stage One (South Side). Work is nearing completion with 80% of the cost covered. Two extra small jobs involving foundation drainage and the small entry window on the south side have also needed to be undertaken. A further $3,000 is required to pay for all the remaining work. Your donation will see the work fully paid. The finished work is stunning.

Stage Two (Front). Fundraising is underway, with the cost estimated at $11,000. So far 50% of the funds needed have been donated. Halleluiah! It would be most cost and time efficient if stage two could immediately follow on from stage one. Please speak to Maureen Lucivero (Treasurer) or a member of the Church Council to contribute, or place your financial donation or statement of future commitment in a sealed envelope marked ‘St Paul’s Restoration’ as part of the normal giving at services. Some parishioners are making regular direct bank debit for this on-going work. We are doing the work without going into debt. All donations to St Paul’s National Trust Fund are tax deductible and a receipt will be issued as/if required.

Thank You

Thank you for being here. Your presence is a light that illuminates the Divine in all Life.

Thank You for being here, for only in others can we discover the unity of spirit for ourselves; and so we give thanks for each other as we share this wonderful space together.

Christabel thanks everyone who made her 70th Birthday celebration
such a lovely gathering of community family and friends. St Paul's shone!

Our Thanks Page

Thank you for all who shared in our start to Advent and helped with the Advent Carol Service last Sunday. Thank you to the readers, the musicians, to Cassie for lighting the candles and to all who attended, to mark together the beginning of a liturgical new season and a new year.

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stpaulsbeaconsfield.com

Please have a look at our “public face” website. It is NOT a replacement for the current site; rather it is intended as an introduction to St Paul's for new visitors and as we are looking for a new Rector we are likely to be visited by prospective candidates. Please make any suggestions that might improve on this 'work in progress'. Please also follow the link to our Facebook page. stpaulsbeaconsfieldwa

Peter's last Sunday Audio

Trinity Sunday 11 June 2017 Part 1 mp3 Trinity Sunday 11 June 2017 Part 2 mp3

Christians and Muslims Break Bread ABC Video

Perth Anglican Church welcomes Muslims ABC Video

Just Manna:

Just Manna: In recent weeks, Just Manna has been delighted to respond to request for support from Syrian refugees who have settled in Perth. We have a specific on-going need from one family for nappies for 2 of their children, a 12 month of baby and a severely disabled 9 year old girl. The cost of the nappies is putting the family in financial difficulty. A basket will be made available in church on Sunday mornings for those who would
like to donate nappies( sizes 10-15 kg and 10-18 kg)
Cash donations are also welcome... see Laurel, Michael or Joan.

Inequality

If inequality is fundamentally about not having equal opportunity, then we must do what we can to improve opportunities to ensure that everyone has the benefits of education, health and health services, access to credit, access to rights and an ability to hold those in power accountable. [TARGET Issue 2 2017]

IGWR Inc.

In Giving We Receive Our giving to enable and empower children in Nepal is where Peter is now looking to establish a model that will make this project sustainable. We still need to build foundations that will secure our current commitments and invite you to join us in making a real difference by sharing with us as a regular sponsor for the work that is already giving life to those in real need. You might also consider visiting Nepal as a volunteer and so delight in seeing the reality of all that is being achieved. [contact Peter or Maureen if you would like to know more]?

Quantum Collects

We are using material from a collection of collects and short commentaries on the week’s readings for the three–year liturgical cycle that Peter has compiled. Peter will eventually publish this collection, possibly as an ebook, and is happy for them to be used each week.

Meditative space before the service:

We are a sociable congregation; we love talking to one another and this is a good thing. So good is it that we provide an opportunity to "catch up" over tea and coffee in the Hall. It only becomes a problem when our talkativeness intrudes on the meditative space created by our musicians who have been asked to come 30 minutes before the commencement of the service proper. Both are good - our sociability and our capacity for silence - they just need to be kept apart. To talk over our musicians is to dishonour their contribution to our worship and those who seek its meditative introduction. David Hawks

Just Manna

Just Manna has several clients setting up home after being homeless for some time. We have a request for: a single bed base and mattress; a double bed base only; microwave; dining suite and lounge. Please see Michael or Joan if you are able to assist.

Reflections on the Discussion Group.

On most weekday mornings I send a reflection (poem or prayer or excerpt), often with a photo, to the Discussion group. I have also created a group mailing list for those who are not on Discussion group. If you would like to be put added to the list, please let me know. This is one contribution I can make to the prayer and contemplative life of St Paul’s. I always send “BCC” so that others’ email addresses are not shown. My email is gabbydeans@westnet.com.au.

Hosting the Elders’ Morning Tea:

each third Tuesdya of the month at 10 am a morning get together of the ‘Church Elders’ is a time for sharing and an opportunity for us to show hospitality to our ‘elders’. If you would like to cater (or help in catering) for one of these monthly gatherings please let Ronny know.

Elders’ Morning Tea drivers wanted

A number of our EMT participants are experiencing difficulty in getting to and from our monthly EMT. If you can assist our senior members getting to and from EMT, then please contact Ruth on 9336 2193. EMT is held on the 3rd Tuesday each month.

Stamps:

Ruth is collecting used stamps, which are sold by some charities to raise money. Any stamps you have will be gratefully received.

The Symbolism of the Anglican Liturgy

The season of Advent is an auspicious time to “Prepare” and to “Be Aware” and so it can be helpful for us to question and attend to the actual rituals of the Church so that we can more fully understand the liturgy that we all participate in. Following the ‘Confession and Absolution’, an intentional preparation for ‘Communion’, we claim ourselves as ‘the Body of Christ’. We then receive from the priest the ‘Peace of the Lord’; and ‘exchange a sign of peace’ with those alongside us. This ‘sign’ is then immediately followed by the bringing of ‘the gifts of the people’ to the altar; first the ‘Bread, Wine and Water’ the elements for communion; and then our ‘offerings’, our giving into the community of St Paul’s. These ritual movements are all linked and serve to give meaning to our common celebration of communion.

What’s the significance of the tree symbol?

We’ve used the icon of a tree throughout the year and especially at Christmas as it gives us a grounded, or earthed, image for contemplation, and thereby encourages us to look at ourselves. Although not readily seen as a classic “Christian” image or symbol, it also serves to remind us of ‘the one who dies on a tree’ and the many references to trees throughout the Scriptures.

Liturgy

On Monday (and the first Monday of each month) those involved in our Sunday liturgy meet to review, plan and give shape to our Sunday services.

Can we send these seven students to Uni?

Uni students

We need 28 sponsors who will commit $16/week over four years and then we can send these seven students to Uni. Contact Maureen if you can help

Imagine

Four choirs sharing the St Paul’s precinct for the weekend. Imagine summer concerts, community workshops and shared meals. Imagine Christians and Muslims sharing the same space for prayer. Imagine a small community living around the church meeting everyday, morning and evening to pray the unfolding of creation. Imagine St Paul’s

Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse

In the light of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, we would like to advise that there are a number of expectations placed on clergy and laity who hold office in the Diocese. A document has been placed on the church notice board stating the expectations and the training that is required. 

If any of you have suffered abuse, or know of anyone who has suffered, we encourage you to make contact with the Director of Professional Standards, Ms Tracie Chambers-Clark 9425 7203, or the police.

In Giving We Receive

IGWR provides 70 children with full-time education; our students range from grade one school to 3rd year university, it is a long term commitment. If you can contribute to sponsoring a child’s education or giving a child a home in one of our IGWR Houses in Nepal, please contact Peter or Maureen We can, each and all, make a difference in the world

"The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.”

Please check out the list of regular and one-off maintenance jobs and consider joining the labourers.

Photos

What happens to the photos? Each week you will see me trying to capture the children with my camera in church, or strolling in the garden peering at some apparently innocuous plant. The best of these photos are sent to the Discussion group and Rosemary places them on the website in the Gallery. Some end up in the service sheet if they are clear enough as black and white images (only one today). During and since Lent I have been including them with my (almost) daily posts on the Discussion site. Thank you to all the photogenic people and things who grace the photos! Gabby

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Liturgy

The word "deacon" is derived from the Greek word diákonos (διάκονος), which is a standard ancient Greek word meaning "servant", "waiting-man", "minister", or "messenger".

We are exploring the liturgical role of the Deacon and Rev’d Michael makes visible in our liturgy today all four meanings of these descriptive meanings in his role, serving both the altar and the people, waiting in relation to the priest and the people, ministering in a leading position in the liturgy; and being a messenger in the reading of the gospel.

It also provides for us all, an opportunity see anew the overall shape and meaning of our liturgy and all are encouraged to question and explore further this rite of thanksgiving that is so central to our faith and life.

Just Manna Inc:

Just Manna has been busy helping those in our community who are in need. At present we have requests for a washing machine, fridge and a double bed with mattress. If you know of anyone who is looking to pass on these second-hand goods, we are happy to help you share these with those in need.  Please contact Michael or Joan.

Flower Roster

Thank you to those who generously volunteer to arrange the lovely floral displays in the church each week. Would you like to be added to the roster? It’s a delightful opportunity to contribute in this special way to the life and beauty of St Paul’s. Arrangements don’t have to be elaborate - small, simple displays with flowers from the church garden are fine. Please contact Ronny on 9335 2242 or email her at ronny.stpauls@gmail.com

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Peoples Climate

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Philanthropy:

Petre Foundation Chairman Daniel Petre said: “On an asset basis affluent Americans currently give around 10%-15% percent of their net worth to philanthropy. Their Australian counterparts seem to be allocating less than 3%...... If Australia’s 20 wealthiest families allocated 20 percent of their wealth to a private foundation, it would create a total of $11.7 billion dollars generating income of around $560 million a year.

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We need ‘Good Samaritans’

NEW YORK, 28 June 2016 – Based on current trends, 69 million children under five will die from mostly preventable causes, 167 million children will live in poverty, and 750 million women will have been married as children by 2030 “Denying hundreds of millions of children a fair chance in life does more than threaten their futures – by fuelling intergenerational cycles of disadvantage, it imperils the future of their societies,” said UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake. “We have a choice: Invest in these children now or allow our world to become still more unequal and divided.”

More from UNICEF

Although education plays a unique role in levelling the playing field for children, the number of children who do not attend school has increased since 2011, and a significant proportion of those who do go to school are not learning. About 124 million children today do not go to primary- and lower-secondary school, and almost 2 in 5 who do finish primary school have not learned how to read, write or do simple arithmetic.  The report points to evidence that investing in the most vulnerable children can yield immediate and long-term benefits. Cash transfers, for example, have been shown to help children stay in school longer and advance to higher levels of education. On average, each additional year of education a child receives increases his or her adult earnings by about 10 per cent. And for each additional year of schooling completed, on average, by young adults in a country, that country’s poverty rates fall by 9 per cent. Inequity is neither inevitable, nor insurmountable, the report argues.

World Views

The United States has 800 military bases outside US borders, which cost taxpayers an estimated $100 billion, annually. All of the other countries in the world combined only have 30 bases outside their borders.

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A study by the World Institute for Development Economics Research at United Nations University reports that the richest 1% of adults alone owned 40% of global assets in the year 2000, and that the richest 10% of adults accounted for 85% of the world total. The bottom half of the world adult population owned 1% of global wealth. Moreover, another study found that the richest 2% own more than half of global household assets.

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One of the smaller details lost amidst the tremendous historic and scientific achievements of the Apollo 11 mission that landed the first two human beings on the moon in July 1969 was that it also marked the first occasion on which a Christian took the sacrament of Communion on an astronomical body other than Earth. This event took place in the interval between the lunar module's landing on the moon on 20 July 1969 and Neil Armstrong's taking his first steps on the lunar surface several hours later; during that period, astronaut Buzz Aldrin privately observed Communion using elements he had brought with him to the moon. (Source: Many references on Net, incl Snopes)

 

First Tuesday Club

Coffee morning 10 am at South Beach Cafe All ages welcome!

First Tuesday Club

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A New Eden

As we seek to realise RESURRECTION we might open ourselves to new sight and to insight, become aware of our changing world and also of the changes we could bring to light in the world. The opening of the southern church door, is perhaps symbolic of a new opening, and invitation into a new entry, and the rolling away of the stone; it is a sign of new light. Michael’s ordination marks a new beginning for our ministry and serves as an example that we too can look for new ways to commit to the future. Removing the cross from the central position of the altar ask us to contemplate what is central to our lives and faith. And with the Easter cross behind us, what do we discover as we emerge into the new Eden. Changes to the liturgy likewise ask us to look again at our prayer life and to seek a deeper understanding of our attending to worship.

The Song of ANZAC

Onward Christian soldiers, march to the song Great adventure, a fine chance for glory We had God on our side; what could go wrong

Straight backed and tall, we strode proudly along Rifles at slant, sure of our victory Onward Christian soldiers, march to the song

Out from the towns, forty thousand men strong Down to the ships, sail into history We had God on our side; what could go wrong

On a cold Sunday morn, wretched and long At Anzac we made our offertory Onward Christian soldiers, march to the song

Death stalked gully and ridge, striking its gong The stones cried out, refrain for our story We had God on our side; what could go wrong

The sound of the bugle calls to the throng Slow notes whispering valedictory Onward Christian soldiers, march to the song We had God on our side; what could go wrong

Ruari Jack Hughes

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Access Ramp

A portable access ramp will be positioned over the steps to the sanctuary immediately before and after Sunday worship.  To avoid steps, please enter and leave the church via the chapel. The ramp will be removed during the service. Please note the ramp is not designed for motorised scooters. 

Be Still and Know that I AM God

Please be honouring to those who desire the stillness and prayerful silence at the beginning of the service and during the Eucharist. Conversations can always take place outside of the church, or later after the service.

Service sheet notices:

For important notices or events you want included in the service sheet, could you please email me Gabby or Ronny (who will forward it to me) by the Wednesday. For regular events I would appreciate an email each time; this is particularly important for events that happen on ‘first’ or ‘second’ etc, days in a month, as a ‘first Monday’ can occur after a ‘first Tuesday’! I will flag the email for inclusion in the following week’s sheet. If everyone helps with this it will be less likely that I forget. Thank you, Gabby

Watering the Garden:

The wonderful gardens here at St Paul’s are stressing under the current bout of very hot weather. If you have some spare time, how about doing a bit of watering, anywhere, any time on the church precinct? Our beautiful gardens would really appreciate your care. 

Circles of Sharing

Circles of sharing and hospitality are starting to bubble up at St Paul’s. Maybe it is time for YOU to invite a few people you know, for a simple meal of bread and soup and share with them your doubts, and your dreams

Prayer Chain:

We are a "doing" community, a "building" community, a "loving" community, a "meditating" community, a "caring" community, a "studying" community, would you like to be part of the praying community? If you are interested in belonging and supporting our community, their friends and family in prayer, contact Rosemary Spark. Also if you or someone you know needs to be upheld in prayer, please immediately contact Rosemary.

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Another doctor in the house!

Congratulations to Linda Blagg on her recently awarded PhD. It represents five years of a labour of love for the planet and humanity. Welcome Dr Blagg!

Definitions from the Cafe

Inoculatte (v): To take coffee intravenously when you are running late. Decafalon (n.): The gruelling event of getting through the day consuming only things that are good for you Coffee, n. the person upon whom one coughs.

How much do Australians spend at Christmas?

The figures are both surprising and challenging. In the lead up to Christmas last year, Australians spent $42 billion. By comparison, the total amount of tax-deductible giving during the year was around $2.6 billion. Please have a look at “St Paul’s Letter to Santa” and let’s all include this wonderful community in our gift giving this Christmas.

Dual Olympian Appointed Dean of St George's Cathedral

The Archbishop, The Most Reverend Roger Herft, approved the unanimous election and nomination of the Cathedral Chapter for The Reverend Canon Richard Pengelley as Dean of Perth.

A delightful quote from the previous (German) pope:

We were looking for a 'good shepherd,' and instead we got a German shepherd.[Pope Benedict XVI]

Morning Tea Roster

Volunteers needed for Sunday morning tea duty. A new roster is being preparing and more volunteers are needed. The more who volunteer the fewer number of times you are called upon. Please contact Ruth to become one of this elite hospitality group

Beyond St Paul’s

Much of our “ministry” and our contribution to the wider community takes place “beyond’ the parish. We currently have four distinct groups that contribute together to our “giving’ in the wider community:

JUST MANNA:working with New Australians and the disadvantaged. IGWR: supporting over 60 children in Nepal and working with three schools to improve educational opportunities

REACH for LIFE: providing restorative justice programs in our prison system.

BEYOND St Paul’s INC: is operational but with little activity and is there to provide financial management directed toward our ministries beyond the parish.

IGWR Inc.

IGWR – In Giving We Receive Maureen has returned from visiting our IGWR projects in Nepal AND comes back with a sponsorship agreement to sponsor one of our students to train as a Doctor. We are all inspired by the generous gift of $30,000 that will enable Gyaltsen to become a doctor, and he in turn will then sponsor another student to do the same.

Deathbed Requests.

A retired priest made an interesting observation after many years of ministering to those close to death and dying. Always on their deathbed the cry was for those who were held in love, never did he hear anyone ask for one more look at their bank statement.

Garden Group

Every Wednesday Morning you are invited to come and spend some delightful time with those who tend the gardens at St Paul’s…There are always plenty of little (and large) jobs and just being here lending a hand and a word of encouragement is a great way to enjoy the pleasures of the garden and also the company of others… and of course there is time for morning tea as well

Just Manna project

Thank you to all those who generously donated towards the vehicle for a client in need. If any one has white goods, specifically we are needing a washing machine. Also any working computers.  Please contact Joan or Claire

Morning Tea

Desperately seeking new people to join the list of those who help at Morning Tea on Sundays. We need 3 on duty together to help set up the Hall before church, bring some refreshments and clean up at the end. Please give your name to Ruth.

Congratulations to Peter Newman for his Australia Day award

Officer of the Order of Australia (AO)

For distinguished service to science education as an academic and researcher, through contributions to urban design and transport sustainability, and to the community. .

Pastoral Care

Susan Grace has taken over the role of coordinator of Pastoral Care at St Paul's If you are involved in pastoral care or would like to become involved, please see Susan.

Prayer:

Each morning (6.30am) and each evening (6.30pm) a few gather in the chapel for morning and evening prayer. We are a community held in prayer and holding each other and the world in prayer. From our prayer life we open a new reality that takes us beyond the mundane, we are enabled to see the sacredness of life.

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It is not the critic who counts; nor the one who points out how the strong person stumbled, or where the doer of a deed could have done better. The credit belongs to the person who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; who does actually strive to do deeds; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotion, spends oneself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement; and who at worst, if he or she fails, at least fails while daring greatly. Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those timid spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.

Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the U.S. and winner of 1906 Nobel Peace Prize "The Man in the Arena: Citizenship in a Republic" Address delivered at the Sorbonne, Paris, April 23, 1910.

Lectionary.

The Revised Common Lectionary which we use for morning and evening prayer, and for the order of readings for our Sunday Eucharist, enables us to be at one with all of the Church as we worship and pray together. The lectionary begins a new year on the first Sunday of Advent and runs in a three year cycle, so this year we follow the same pattern of readings that we followed in 2010. Copies of the lectionary for 2013/2014 are now on sale at St John’s bookshop in Fremantle

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More about Prayer.

The arms of prayer are also wrapped around the community via cyberspace (the Discussion site), morning and night by Gabby and Beth – Gabby’s morning reflections and Beth’s nightly Compline contributions.

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Did you Know?

The parking bays in front of the bell tower are reserved for those doing deliveries & those with disabilities. Your support to make these bays available to those who most need them is appreciated. A bike rack has been installed in the south-western corner of the car park.

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Thank you

Thank you for being here

Blessed opportunities wherein we come from our solitary closets to see ourselves in solemn assemblies. Single devotions are weak in comparison of these; here is the joy and strength of union. Private people are but half themselves and are naturally magnified in others. We are enlarged and multiplied when we see ourselves in so many faces in divine assemblies. The difference between earth and heaven is that here we are dispersed, there we shall ever be united together. Thomas Traherne

Thank you for being here. Your presence is a light that illuminates the Divine in all Life.

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Thank you to our wardens and church council who give so much in creating our future….

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Thank you to all who are working and planning for our Fair…not many days to go now!

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Our Thanks Page

1st Tuesday Club

Please join us every first Tuesday

Refugees

If you are disgusted by the political debate regarding refugees, please say so! Write/email any member of the government (any party). And consider what you will do if you cannot vote “for” any party’s policies.

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Working with Children Check

Due to the Royal Commission into Child Sex Abuse, it is now a policy of the Diocese and St Paul’s, that every person working with children must have a Working With Children Check. If you help out with the Sparkles group (even infrequently) and don’t have a WWCC, please collect an application form from the Post Office – fee is $10.30.  Once you have received your card, let Ronny know the card number and expiry date and these will be forwarded to the Diocesan Office.

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Giving Envelopes

now available for collection at the entry of the church.  They are always useful reminders to keep our weekly giving consistent and regular.

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"And who is my neighbour?"

The total capacity of the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground [MCG] is approximately 100,000. By Australian standards that’s a good crowd, but by no means is it a very large number of people compared with our population. With that number in mind consider the political spin associated with the “large numbers” of “boat people” coming to our shores. The highest annual arrival rate was in 2001 (and that was a record): 5000 arrived! Although we are expecting record breaking numbers of 6000+ this year……. At that rate it would take 20 years to fill the MCG with ‘boat people’ Another interesting number to give further perspective – it is estimated that “each year and about 50,000 visa over-stayers from such places as New Zealand, Britain and the US.” That’s a 10 times bigger problem and one with no political spin! "And who is my neighbour?" Obviously NOT those who come uninvited by boat. Last year, Australia received only 1.6 per cent of the asylum applications made across 44 industrialised nations. What are we missing?..... Albert Einstein was a refugee. Bob Marley was a refugee.

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As part of Pastoral Care I will be available for energy-based treatments for health and well-being. This will be available in the meditation room the 4th Friday of each month. Please call me for appointments or questions. Claire 0415745812 

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Psalm for an Honest Man

(for Alan Albany, 11 August 1946 – 7 July 2012)

Where are you now, star man, out there in the heavens Beyond the planets, galaxies, where in great universe

You have left us behind, still anchored on this small rock While you soar into those spaces watched and studied

Searching the light which streams from time’s beginning Seeking the light which flowed from that infinite brilliance

We remember you in those times we shared Those years, days when we were all together

When we ran off in our hasty beliefs, our erratic notions When you pulled us gently back, explaining a clearer way

You walked a steady path, though surely there were obstacles In the end, gently, with grace, you stepped past last one

There was no excuse made, no blame laid or reason sought Only the honest claim, a hope for some rest before going

What have you discovered beyond the veil of night What do you already know that we must wait and wonder

We wanted you here longer, there was more to say It was too soon, much soon for you to leave

While we wait our turn, we will recall you, your quiet smile We have stayed behind for now, but we’ll join you by and by Ruari Jack Hughes

  • Graham Kershaw, architect of our East End and beautiful amphitheatre has won the Blake Poetry Prize. Check out the NSW Writers' Centre write-up on . Congratulations, Graham.
  • Have you listened to Peter Newman's interview about CUSP, his mother and St Pauls?
  • Have you bought a copy of the book Memories and/or cd with poetry by fellow parishioner Ruari Jack Hughes? It was launched in conjunction with Janet Yates's art exhibition at the Zigzag Cultural Centre 50 Railway Road Kalamunda. Janet contributed the expressionist art work.
  • Postcards from Nepal our outreach to the top of the world to Snowlands orphanage in Kathmandu where members of the church visit and work.
  • Have you seen the History of St Pauls produced by the St Pauls Archive group? On sale for only $20.00 . Margaret & George Paynter, Diane Robinson & Val Pearson
  • Have you a bought and read Larrikin Angel, biography of Sister Veronica Brady, written by our fellow parishioner Kath Jordan yet?
  • sunday arvo pictures latest film portrait from Linda Blagg, another talented St Paul's parishioner
  • What's SPARKLE? "St Paul's All-Ages Religious Knowledge Learning Experience".

     

 

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Tuesday Club

Check out our WOW (Words of Wisdom) segment below.

WOW No.1 - "Anyone can teach me something – even if it’s what not to do" (Michael Cockram)

A New Creation

  1. Fremantle council changed their planning policy to promote more urban infill AFTER members of the St Paul’s Community had established “A New Creation” in the developments surrounding the church precinct.
  2. The Guardian Newspaper on 18th March reported an initiative by a Church in Aberdeen; “the only place in the UK” where such an initiative is found….. St Paul’s had adopted the same over a year ago… another “New Creation”.
  3. What will YOU, and what will we seek to realise as “A New Creation” this Easter?

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Rosters

IGWR In Giving We Receive Postcard from Kathmandu

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Stamps:

Ruth Shelley would also like used postage stamps - all of them, not just interesting foreign ones.  They go to Rotarians, and help the third world somehow!

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Flower Roster

We delight in and give thanks for those who so generously provide the beautiful flower arrangements in the church each week. A new roster for 2013 is being prepared and we invite you to add your name to the list of volunteers. It’s a wonderful opportunity to contribute in this special way to the life of St Paul’s. If you think you can provide even small and simple arrangements, please contact Ronny on 9335 2242 or ronny.stpauls@gmail.com

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Our Graham wins Prize

STOP PRESS: Graham Kershaw, architect of our East End and beautiful amphitheatre has won the Blake Poetry Prize. Check out the NSW Writers' Centre write-up on . Congratulations, Graham.

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Why do churches always seem to be asking for money? Well churches are places where the Holy Scriptures are read, for example: What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? And although faith costs nothing, works do require financing. Today’s readings go even further in asking us to look again at the way in which we create/employ our wealth. In our modern culture we count our blessings by counting what we have. Imagine if we hear the Word of God, “Those who are generous are blessed, for they share their bread with the poor” Imagine a world in which we do not count that which we have, but rather count all that we share. The scriptures have an overall orientation toward giving, and that is summed up in one of our foundational statements of faith: "You shall love your neighbour as yourself."

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DO SOMETHING SPECIAL: Today, there are 211 young people in the Perth Metropolitan area that need a place to call home.  Fostering Futures is looking for overnight, short term and long term carers to give a young person support and a home. You will receive training, ongoing support and financial assistance. Make a difference to a young person’s future. Contact by email elisam@anglicarewa.org.au or call 9263 2070.

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Women nurturing Women: Come and enjoy a relaxing and nurturing energy based treatment  from qualified Healing Touch Practitioners at our open day for women. Sat monthly between 2pm and 4pm Cost $20.  Please call Claire on 0415745812 or email  inhearttherapy@gmail.com to book and avoid overlaps and waiting times. (See flyer on hall notice board)

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Teatowels: If you have taken some home to wash and inadvertently kept them, could you return them please as we are very short of them. No questions asked and the confidentiality of the confessional will be honoured.

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Coming Up

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Our Thanks Page

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SPRING CLEAN: Tranby House would very much welcome donations of GOOD used men’s clothing. Especially with the cold winter weather there is a demand for warm clothes and also waterproof clothes (incl shoes). Donations to Tranby House, unit 6, 5 Aberdeen Street East Perth (9220 1200). If you have a load to take please put a notice in next week’s sheet if you could also deliver for someone else.

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ANGLICARE   The need for food is great ... our basket is empty!

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News From Nepal.  Five of our students, Sabnam, Sanchita, Jabir, Ganga and Kamala, who have been attending universities and other colleges have now graduated.  Rajkuma and Sangita have completed first year of a business management degree and are waiting for their results.  Many thanks to St Paul's community for your financial and emotional support of our students over the last five years. Without your input it would be impossible for such a wonderful outcome. Marie.

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Watering Roster

Although it's not yet summer, the gardening group would like to start assembling the watering team. Please give your name to Debbie if you are able to join the 'gardening ministry'.

Eddie Vagg

Eddie Vagg [ 25.12.1920 - 14.01.2010 ] continues to 'give'. The last electricity for the rectory was a CREDIT thanks to Eddie's bequest which was used (in part) to provide solar panels. And he gives even more, two parishioner's who have also installed solar panels with the same company who did the rectory, result is us getting a CREDIT of $1600 from solar unlimited.

Thank YOU Eddie: Last month we received $127 in credit from Synergy thanks to our Solar Panels which were installed thanks to a bequest made by Eddie Vagg. Please consider YOUR bequest to St Paul's Church (membership is for eternity!)

What part do risk and courage play in the life of our community?

“What part do risk and courage play in the life of our community” is one of the questions for reflection. The diocese of Perth website has a number of references to “Risk”:

  • The Diocese of Perth is committed to ensuring the highest standards of risk management is provided in order to protect our people

Risk Management Checklisit

  • More information about the ChurchSafe programme available at Churchsafe And, as in our wider culture, we are all reminded to “belt up” and wear crash helmets on our bicycles.
  • How do we understand this cultural direction in relation to our Lenten reflections .

Community foundations

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Sheer silence: for those who wish to spend time before the service in silent contemplation, the chapel will be available from 9.00am each Sunday. “There is nothing so much like God as silence” Meister Eckhart

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Home Groups....

are a delightful way of offering hospitality and sharing hospitality. They can also give us a chance to meet regularly to look at questions of faith and to share our unfolding Christian journey. Please consider inviting a few to meet regularly - maybe over bread & soup to keep the catering simple.... Home Groups

DAMA News

. Building the Community: St Paul's Beyond the Walls

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Morning & Evening Prayer is held in the chapel.... It feels different and so we should be open to the changing space and to changing the space as we come together in prayer.

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History of St Paul’s: The Archive Group’s book is out and on sale for $20. See Val Pearson or Diana Robinson.

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St Paul’s on the Internet: How do we get to see ourselves and the diversity of people/activities that make us the community we are? One way is to visit the web-site Rosemary does a wonderful job of keeping a current picture of the community up to date… It is well worth a visit and there is quite a collection of photos past and present.

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Who is Missing? If you’ve missed someone or know of someone who’s not been to Church for a while, please send them a card, call them or visit…. For by encouraging each other we create life for ourselves.

 

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Kath Jordan’s biography of the well-known Loreto nun, academic and activist Veronica Brady, entitled Larrikin Angel and published by Round House Press, is available at St John's Books, Fremantle, or online at www.roundhousepress.com. A review of the book by Roy Williams, reprinted from The Australian, is in April’s Messenger. Have you a copy of Larrikin Angel, biography of Sister Veronica Brady, written by our fellow parishioner Kath Jordan yet?

Have you a copy of Larrikin Angel, biography of Sister Veronica Brady, written by our feloow parishioner Kath Jordan yet?

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GIVING and THANKSGIVING and OFFERING and GIFTS

Our Regular Giving is what creates our community…. Our Giving provides a stipend for our Priest Our Giving Pays all bills for the church, the hall and the rectory…. Our Giving is all we have to maintain and restore our properties Our Giving is what we have to Give to others and to the calls for “alms” Our Giving supports Chaplains in Schools and enables us to provide the community with the use of the hall……. Envelopes - Help us to be regular and to think of what we give….. And in a similar manner… Direct Debit achieves the same…… Please Consider Being a REGULAR Giver for even when you cannot make it to Church – we are still here.

 

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Just Manna – like to help our refugees? We have refugees who need assistance to set up and activate donated computers. And CARAD are looking for volunteers to provide practical and emotional support for refugees living in our community. If you can help with either or would like more information please speak to one of the St Paul’s Just Manna team.

 

Out Thanks page is so big it has its own page

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Diamonds R Forever

Invitations are being sent out to enable the purchase of a stained glass diamond panel that will be incorporated into the windows of the church and documented with an entry in the Centenary Memorial Book It is an opportunity for those associated with the Parish, past & present, to remember a loved one or to acknowledge an important part of their spiritual heritage. We will soon install the first “diamond” so that you have the opportunity to see what is the vision for this fundraising and memorial initiative.

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As we are swaying – Lets Give Peace a Dance

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Refugees--Their need has never been greater!

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