Author: Lee-Ann Boyne

PASTORAL CARE
Chaplain Position – South West Baptist invite expressions of interest for the position of Chaplain. This is a new role and the successful applicants will work with Stepping Stone Trust as well as South West Baptist. Hours and days yet to be confirmed. Start date February 2017. If you have experience in Mental Health, Chaplaincy or Pastoral Ministry and are interested in this exciting opportunity, please contact Warren Read wread@swbc.org.nz or call 338 4163 ext 301.Congratulations to Mel and Samuel Frei on the birth of their daughter Amalia Joy Frei. Proud grandparents Greg and Sue Britt and Ernst and Renate Frei.

Wednesday Early Morning Prayer meeting. Come and  join us in the front room of the white house as we pray for the life of our church. Each  Wednesday from 7am – 8.30am. Come for as long or as little time as you want. Everyone is warmly welcome.

Mercy Basket – This week we are starting to put together our Christmas food parcels.  Last year we sent out 130 to families who required help. Monetary donations are much appreciated along with donations of canned veges & fruit, long life milk, biscuits, pasta snacks, pasta & sauces, jams, marmite and cereals. Thank you so much for your ongoing support of this valuable ministry.  Blessings, Sheryl.

LEADERSHIP

 

 

 

 

As you can see from the above graph, giving dropped back last month to below budget. We appreciate your continued prayers and support.

Next Discovery Lunch November 6 is for those new to our church. If you would like to come along and hear about the church, places to belong, learn, grow or to contribute, please leave your name at the Info Centre or email Si Hart at shart@swbc.org.nz.

Grotto Café Employment Opportunities – Grotto Café Manager and Assistant Manager. We are seeking expressions of interest for two paid positions for approximately one month prior to Christmas, part-time or full-time. Past hospitality experience desirable but not vital. Willingness to learn and serve essential. Contact Matt mb@swbc.org.nz.

GENERAL
‘Against the Odds’ books – ordered copies have arrived plus a few extra.  Please visit the Info Centre today to pick up / purchase ($35) your copy or visit the Church Office during the week.

0-18 MINISTRIES
SHARP Trust invite applications for an After School Programme Coordinator, a fixed term position to cover up to 1 year parental leave. Applicants will be responsible for managing and coordinating the programme to an excellent standard and will  be required to hold a full, current drivers licence. Hours are Monday – Friday varying between 30-38 hours per week. Start date February 2017. To express your interest please contact Grant Chivers gchivers@swbc.org.nz or call 338 4163  ext 266.

MINISTRIES
Craft Group – Monday October 31 at 246 Lyttleton Street. Monthly craft group. 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Bring along a craft and come for a chat and a cuppa. Contact Treena – Marie if you have any questions 338 448.

Men’s Breakfast – Saturday November 12 in The Hub Cafe from 8 – 10am. Tickets available from the Info Centre on Sundays or Reception during the week. Cost $13 adults, youth $7. ‘When God Breaks Through’. Speaker Lyell Gately. Enquiries to Kevin Stevenson 027 5677 118.

Healing Rooms – welcome you for prayer on Monday November 7, at 248 Lyttleton Street, anytime between 7.30pm and 8.15pm. Enquiries to Karen by phoning 338 4163 or email healingrooms@swbc.org.nz.

Recycling Craft Competition – Bring along your creations to Fiesta at Hoon Hay Park on 18 November 4.30pm and drop your entry into the CCC info tent on the day. (Ages 5-16yrs). No glass bottles to be used. For more info call Roy 021 889 199.

Young Adults Camp – November 25 – 27 at Okains Bay. Cost $30pp. For more information visit the South West Baptist Young Adults Facebook group, website www.swbc.org.nz or contact Emma Bell email ebell@swbc.org.nz.

GLOBAL
Global Night – November 14 from 7.30pm in the Hub Cafe. Come along and pray for our people and places around the world.

Global Gifts – This year we will not be having Global Gifts at Christmas. Many other organisations have similar gifts: try www.giftforlife.co.nz or www.worldvision.org.nz/ways-to-give/smiles.

SENIORS
New Horizons for Seniors and Younger. Please contact Ruth or Alison ph 338 4163 ext 221 with queries. See Info Centre for a timetable.

Thursday Nov 3 – 10.30am in The Hub, Church Café, 244 Lyttelton St. Coffee Morning, Bring & Buy “COW” Table with produce from our garden.

Monday Nov 7 – 12.30 – 2pm. Picnic in the Botanic Gardens. Meet at bridge from Armagh St carpark. Bring your picnic lunch or money for lunch, RSVP for transport by November 3.

OTHER
Question? Feeling overwhelmed with the changing pace of technology? Feeling lost, using a new device? Is financial/time commitment in keeping up-to-date stressing you? If you answered YES to one of these questions, you’re not alone. I’m really passionate about helping people get the most from technology. Come along to the church cafe on Thursday evening from 7pm to see how we can address some of these gaps. Contact Peter Elliott 027 5099 910 for further information.

Bachelor of Social work – Would you like a career in social work? We can help you make your passion possible with the Bachelor of Social work. Our expert tutors and extensive community connections will equip you with all the knowledge. Applications close on November 1 for the 2017 intake. Apply today at ara.ac.nz.

GLOBAL MISSION
CHAD
Chad is coming to the end of the rainy season, which has been good this year and people are hopeful of a good harvest. This is necessary as Chad has many extra people to feed – around 400000 refugees are living in Chad, fleeing militants and wars in surrounding countries.Please pray for these refugees, that they would have enough to survive, and that they would find peace and safety in Chad. Pray for an end to wars and violence in the Central African region.

Diane Goodman is living in Chad, working with a people group in the south of Chad, developing written materials in the local language with a team. Now that the rains have eased, she will travel out to the villages taking copies of literacy materials (beginner readers) and newly translated portions of Scripture to test. This month she will also be working with her local colleague on translating the book of Luke.

Pray for the people of Chad – for the moving of God’s Spirit amongst them to call many to Himself. Pray that his light would shine in their hearts revealing who He is and who Christ is.

PASTORAL CARE
Prayer – Our love and sympathy to the Warrington family on the passing of Betty, their loved mother and grandmother.Mercy Basket – Thank you for supporting families in need. The items we need this week are biscuits, canned fruit, spreads and creamed rice. God bless, Jordy

Wednesday Early Morning Prayer meeting. Come and  join us in the front room of the white house, as we pray for the life of our church. Each  Wednesday from 7-8.30am. Come for as long or as little time as you want. Everyone is warmly welcome.

LEADERSHIP
Grotto Café Employment Opportunities.. Grotto Café Manager and Assistant Manager. We are seeking expressions of interest for two paid positions for approximately one month prior to Christmas, part-time or full-time. Past hospitality experience desirable but not vital. Willingness to learn and serve essential. Contact Matt mb@swbc.org.nz.

Advent Calendars are now available to order on our website. This year the theme for the Calendar is the cosmos, with the front image showing space ships, angels, asteroids and elements of the Nativity story. Ordering closes on October 14. Visit the website to get your order in today!

GIVING
Do you have a Donation/Giving Number? If you would like one please ring the church office during the week or see Info Centre on Sunday.

Ways to give:
Pushpay:  Download our church App to your phone from the App store or Google play.
Internet Banking:
Account Name: South West Baptist Church.
Account Numbers:   02-0820-0247412-00 general giving or
02-0820-0247412-03 global missions giving
Particulars: Put in your donation number. For further information refer to the website.

150TH CELEBRATIONS
Get ready for the 150th weekend!
Pick up a free ticket for the service of your choice.
Book the kids into the children’s programme.
Pre-order your USB of our Church History (just $12.00).
Plan to be here on Sunday October 16 10.30am for the cutting of the cake.
Pick up some street party flyers to give to friends and family.

For more information email 150@swbc.org.nz.

150th Luncheon – As part of our celebrations there will be a gathering and luncheon on Saturday October 15 for those associated with South West Baptist Church prior to 1977. For further details contact Carolyn Stewart 021 2690 308.

0-18 MINISTRIES
Help us get to India – In December SYC is sending a group of nine people to India. We’re doing lots of fundraising, including running the cafe every two weeks. If you would like to contribute further, donations can be made to the SYC bank account  02-0800-0628410-00 with the reference “Donation GE.” Thanks for your support!

MINISTRIES
Healing Rooms invite you for prayer on Monday October 3, anytime between 7.30 and 8.15pm, 248 Lyttelton Street, or on the fourth Saturday of the month at 10.00am. Contact Karen ph 338 4163; or email healingrooms@swbc.org.nz.

Whetu Stars – Saturday October 8, 2pm-4pm at Halswell site, 6 Balcairn Street for fun, food and faith. Our vision is to support families and their children with disabilities/special needs, as we seek to lead our children in God’s ways. We will focus on Jonah from the Bible. Contact: Andy Carpenter ph 338 4163 ext 238 or email  acarpenter@swbc.org.nz.

Used Book Collection – Cross Over Trust are collecting used books in good condition (no magazines or Readers Digest please) which will help raise funds towards our work in our local communities. Please leave your books in the boxes opposite the Church library in the Foyer and at Reception mid-week. Contact Roy on 021 889 199 for more info.

Clothing Recycled – Cross Over Trust are raising funds for their work with local families by selling good quality used women’s and children’s clothing. Each week there will be collection points at the blue bin by the drinking fountain in the Foyer or Church Reception on weekdays. For more information email Ruth ruthlouisemajor@gmail.com.

GLOBAL
A missionary couple visiting Christchurch from mid November to mid January  are needing accommodation or a house-sit  and the possible use of a vehicle from January 4 – 17, 2017. If you are able to  help please contact Evelyn Lalahi, on 021 0291 6084  or 338 8598.

SENIORS
New Horizons for Seniors and Younger. Please contact Ruth or Alison ph 338 4163 ext 221 with queries. See Info Centre for a timetable.

Thursday Oct 6 – 10.30am Coffee Morning,  The Hub Café, 244 Lyttelton St, with  Bring & Buy “COW” Table. Free tea and coffee.

Monday Oct 10 – Halswell Auditorium, 6 Balcairn St. Potluck Lunch 12.30 – 2.30pm. Aging Gracefully – What Comes Next? Gains, Transitions, Losses? Cathy Roseveare has had a wealth of experience in Rest Home care.

OTHER
Spring Delight Concert – A building and organ fundraiser for Oxford Terrace Baptist Church. On Monday October 10 from 7.30pm, at the Transitional Cathedral
Latimer Square. Tickets cost $25 each or 4 for $90 (pre-sold). Tickets can be purchased from Oxford Terrace Baptist church office corner Oxford Terrace and Madras Street Tuesday – Friday 9am – 12.30pm. Door sales will be available on the night from 6.30pm. For more information ph 379 5996.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Papua New Guinea has over 800 different people groups. The isolation created by the mountainous terrain is so great that some groups, until recently, were unaware of the existence of neighboring groups only a few kilometers away. The diversity, reflected in a folk-saying, “For each village, a different culture”, is perhaps best shown in the local languages. Only about 350-450 of the language groups in PNG are related.
The remainder of the Papuan languages seem to be totally unrelated either to each other or to the other major groupings. Although the majority of people groups in PNG identify as Christian, there is still a huge task for those working in PNG to communicate the good news of Jesus to the different language groups in a way that makes sense in their own distinct culture.Phil and Chris Carr work in the Bamu river area, translating scripture with the help of 2 local partners. At present they are working on Hebrews and 1 Corinthians. Pray for wisdom for them all as they translate, and that the words of Scripture would bring wisdom, hope and unity to those on the Bamu river.

PASTORAL CARE
Congratulations to Tim and Rae Lalahi on the birth of their baby daughter.Prayer – Our love and sympathy to Craig & Lorraine Poole and family on the passing of Craig’s mother and to Joy & Geoff Vickers on the passing of Joy’s stepmother.Congratulations to Alex McClelland and Kate Street on their recent engagement.

Mercy Basket – Thank you for all your support in providing food for our food parcels.  This week we require pasta sauce, pasta snacks, creamed rice, tinned veges and long life milk.  Thank you – Jordy.

LEADERSHIP
Next Discovery Lunch September 11 is for those new to our church. If you would like to come along and hear about the church, places to belong, learn, grow or to contribute, please leave your name at the Info Centre or email Si Hart at shart@swbc.org.nz.

Help us get to India – In December SYC is sending a group of nine people to India. We’re doing lots of fundraising, including running the cafe every two weeks. If you would like to contribute further, donations can be made to the SYC bank account  020800 0628410 00 with the reference “Donation GE.” Thanks for your support!

SYC International for Teenagers – Meet in the Spreydon Site Cafe 4.00pm – 7.00pm on Sundays. $2 per session. We’d love some people to come and help prepare dinner and drive vans on a Sunday. If you’re interested in hearing more, please email Claire crussell@swbc.org.nz.

MINISTRIES
Men’s Breakfast August 27 – 8.00am – 10.00am in the Hub Cafe. Tickets available this week from the Info Centre or at Reception during the week. Tickets $14 (Adult), $7 (Youth). Speaker: Steve Withington ‘Journeying through the challenges of leadership to moving beyond survival’.

Craft Group – We will be meeting in the Board Room on Monday August 29 from 7.30pm. Please bring a craft that you are working on and come along to enjoy a chat and a cuppa. Cost is $2. All are welcome. For more info contact Treena-Marie on 338 0448.

Fresh Perspective Mentor Training starts September 1, 7.00pm – 9.30pm Halswell Site 6 Balcairn St. Cost $40. This is a course for those already journeying closely with someone or for those who would like to develop or widen their mentoring skills further. The training aims to be more intentional than friendship alone and yet less intense than a professional course. It is strengths-based, solutions focused, relational in nature and missional in heart. For more information or to register please contact Lidwina Clarke on 027 271 1686 or email lclarke@swbc.org.nz.

Conquer Series Men’s Group – Do you know someone struggling with pornography or sexual addictions?  Find how to help with answers and tools to strengthen their sexual integrity. Ten week course at SWBC on Fridays starting September 16 from 7.30pm. Contact Chris at christiaan@paradise.net.nz   or 021 306 112 for more details.

Marriage Enrichment Course – Time to review and revitalise your relationship?  Well-presented, DVD based series; date-like atmosphere; delicious dessert; no group work.  Course runs for seven Sunday evenings from 7.00pm at Halswell, 6 Balcairn Street, starting September 18. Registration forms available at Info Centre. For enquiries contact Darryl & Claire Taylor.  Email darryl.taylor@trimble.co.nz or phone 339 0494 or 021 035 7494.  Cost $65 per couple.

Used Book Collection – Cross Over Trust are collecting used books in good condition (no magazines or Readers Digest please) which will help raise funds towards our work in our local communities. Please leave your books in the boxes opposite the Church library in the Foyer and at Reception mid-week. Read more about Cross Over Trust on the SWBC website. Contact Roy on 021889199 for more info.

Cross Over Trust Newsletter – Our latest newsletter is now available for you at the Info Centre. Read about what we have been up to and if you would like to know more about what we do please contact us at ecooper@swbc.org.nz.

Healing Rooms welcomes you to come for prayer at 248 Lyttelton Street every 4th Saturday between 10.00am – 11.00am; or every 1st Monday between 7.30pm – 8.15pm. Contact Karen Calder for more info – ph 3384163 or  email healingrooms@swbc.org.nz.

GLOBAL
Pick up a newsletter from the Capons today from the Info Centre.

Global Night Market – The night market is a great celebration of the different cultures that make up our SWBC community, and is made possible by you all. To run a stall or get involved email John jsrobertson@swbc.org.nz.

Monthly Prayer group starting soon to encourage and support Phil and Chris Carr as they complete translation of the New Testament. For more info please contact Phil & Chris Carr 022 417 2437 or Evelyn Lalahi 03 3388 598 or  021 0291 6084.

SENIORS
New Horizons for Seniors and Younger. Please contact Ruth or Alison ph 338 4163 ext 221 with queries. See Info Centre for a timetable.

Monday September 12 From 12.15pm – 2pm, meet in the Cobham Hall for some reminiscing on the ‘Dad’s Army’ Series. Bring  $5 for lunch.

OTHER
Plan for Christmas – Finding it hard to make ends meet? Need some encouragement to plan financially for Christmas or other expenses? Kingdom Resources may be able to help. Phone 03 332 1700 for a confidential appointment.

GLOBAL PRAYER FOCUS 
THAILAND 
Earlier this month, Thailand had a referendum that has brought in a new constitution. Some are concerned that the new constitution will entrench the power of the ruling military government and increase divisions. Following the constitution there was a series of bomb blasts across the country in tourist areas, leaving four dead and many wounded. This week there have been further bomb blasts. No one is sure if these are designed to cause disruption or if they are part of a long-running insurgency from a Muslim group in the South of Thailand.Pray for a government that would care for the poor and the forgotten. Pray that there would be leaders who would seek unity for the country. Pray for those who feel they have no voice in the country – that there would be leaders who would want to seek them out and listen.Pete and Lynley work with a community in the Northeast of Thailand – an area far from major tourist or political centres. As they walk alongside people and help in practical ways, they are able to see lives changed and hope coming in an area of significant poverty. Pray for the small group of Christians in the area, that God would strengthen them and that their numbers would grow. Pray that the community would thrive – in particular that rain would come and the crops would grow.

PASTORAL CARE
Prayer – Our love and sympathy to Derek & Cindy Smithies and family on the passing of Derek’s father and Michael & Karen McCormack and family on the passing of Michael’s father.Mercy Basket – Thank you for all your support in providing food for our food parcels. This week we require pasta sauce, pasta snacks, creamed rice, tinned veges and long life milk.  Thank you – JordyLEADERSHIP
 

 

 

 

 

 

The above graph shows a very positive trend in our financial giving. July giving of $146,496 was above the monthly target set by Elders and almost at budget. Praise the Lord!

Next Discovery Lunch August 14 is for those new to our church. If you would like to come along and hear about the church, places to belong, learn, grow or to contribute, please leave your name at the Info Centre or email Si Hart at shart@swbc.org.nz.

Heart of Worship Weekend – Wayne and Libby Huirua will be with us on the weekend of August 13 & 14. They will be speaking at all services on Sunday and leading two sessions over the weekend that are open to all. Worship Team Session – Saturday 2pm at Halswell Site & Song-writing Session Sunday 2pm at Spreydon Site.

GENERAL
Word for Today’s have arrived – get your copy from the Info Centre today. Cost $2.

0-18 MINISTRIES
SYC International for Teenagers – Meet in the Spreydon Site Cafe 4pm – 7pm on Sundays. $2 per session. We’d love some people to come and help prepare dinner and drive vans on a Sunday. If you’re interested in hearing more, please email Claire crussell@swbc.org.nz.

MINISTRIES
Fresh Perspective Mentor Training starts September 1, 7.00pm – 9.30pm Halswell Site 6 Balcairn St. Cost $40. This is a course for those already journeying closely with someone or for those who would like to develop or widen their mentoring skills further. The training aims to be more intentional than friendship alone and yet less intense than a professional course. It is strengths-based, solutions focused, relational in nature and missional in heart. For more information or to register please contact Lidwina Clarke on 027 271 1686 or email lclarke@swbc.org.nz.

Men’s Breakfast August 27 – 8.00am – 10.00am in the Hub Cafe. Tickets available this week from the Info Centre or at Reception during the week. Tickets $14 (Adult), $7 (Youth). Speaker: Steve Withington Journeying through the challenges of leadership to moving beyond survival.

Conquer Series Men’s Group – dealing with sexual addiction issues, 10 week course running weekly at SWBC from September 16 on Friday’s at 7.30 pm to 9.00 pm. Contact Chris at christiaan@paradise.net.nz or  021 306 112  for details if interested.

Early Spring Clean!  Cross Over Trust are collecting used books in good condition (no magazines or Readers Digest please) which will be help raise funds towards our work in our local communities. Please leave your books in the boxes opposite the Church library in the Foyer and at Reception mid-week. Read more about Cross Over Trust on the SWBC website. Contact Roy on 021889199 for more info.

Healing Rooms welcomes you to come for prayer at 248 Lyttelton Street every 4th Saturday between 10.00am – 11.00am; or every 1st Monday between 7.30 – 8.15pm. Contact Karen Calder for more info – ph 3384163 or  email healingrooms@swbc.org.nz

Living Apart Course – starts  August 18 from 6.30pm – 9pm in the Hub Cafe. This is a seven week course ‘Restored Lives’, for anyone who has been separated or divorced either recently or a long time ago. Dinner provided at 6.30pm. DVD starts at 7pm with support group until 9pm. To register please contact Peter & Rachael 027 5099920 or  email livingapart@live.com.

COMMUNITY MINISTRIES
Halswell, Aidanfield Wigram Community Lunch – Sunday 21 August at the Halswell site. Finger food pot luck. Eat at 1.00pm but doors open at 12.30pm. Contact Janet Holder for more info on 021 1477 656.

GLOBAL
Pick up newsletter from the India team, Carrs and Vijaya today from the Info Centre.

Global Night Market – The night market is a great celebration of the different cultures that make up our SWBC community, and is made possible by you all. To run a stall or get involved email John jsrobertson@swbc.org.nz.

Monthly Prayer group starting soon to encourage and support Phil and Chris Carr as they complete translation of the New Testament. For more info please contact Phil & Chris Carr 022 417 2437 or Evelyn Lalahi 03 3388 598 or  021 0291 6084

SENIORS
New Horizons for Seniors and Younger. Please contact Ruth or Alison ph 338 4163 ext 221 with queries. See Info Centre for a timetable.

Monday August 15 – 12.15pm – 2pm. Cost $5 for Lunch in Cobham Hall. Quiz with the Famous Dave Adams

Monday August 22 – 12.15pm – 2pm. Cost $5 for Lunch in Cobham Hall. Diabetes: First-hand information and minimising risks of this No.1 Killer with Lynne Taylor.

GLOBAL PRAYER FOCUS
CHINA
Pray for China as it is currently undergoing a shift towards more repression – this has included arrests of human rights activists and lawyers, persecution of Christians and increased oppression of Buddhist and Muslim groups.Since Xi came to power, China’s situation has become more and more worrisome, says Murong Xuecun, a prominent author and commentator. “Things that we could openly discuss before, such as the Cultural revolution, are now considered sensitive or even forbidden. In the past there was some room for non-governmental organisations and rights lawyers. Now all of them have been suppressed.” (Financial Times. July 27, 2016)Pray for President Xi and the other leaders in China. Pray they would be concerned with the good of all they lead, even if it means loosening their grip on power.Christians are facing more scrutiny and there has been an increase in arrests of pastors and church members throughout  the country. A Pastor who has previously been detained asks for prayer for persecuted Christians “to be endowed with confidence, tenderness, eloquence and a loving heart so that they may defend their faith”. (Christianity Today, 2 August, 2016).

PASTORAL CARE
Thank you – Adrienne Stewart, Bev (Lionel’s sister), Karen, Chrissy and whanau would like to express their huge thanks and appreciation for the aroha and support shown to them at this time. Your warmth and care will remain in our hearts.Mercy Basket – It’s great to see your donations coming in each week. The items we are short of are pasta sauce, pasta snacks, canned vegetables and muesli bars. Thanks, JordyLEADERSHIP
Cafe Consent – our cafe consent application is now with the City Council and we anticipate a decision in the next few weeks. Please continue to pray for this process.

Next Discovery Lunch is August 14 and is for those new to our church. If you would like to come along and hear about the church, places to belong, learn, grow or to contribute, please leave your name at the Info Centre or email Si Hart at shart@swbc.org.nz.

Local Missions Week – ‘The Adventures of the Mystery Prayer Bus’ on Wednesday August 3 at 6pm we’ll meet for dinner then board buses and pray through the South West. Register on Connect or at the Info Centre.

Sunday Hospitality and Baking  – We have appreciated the willingness of so many people who supply and set up Sunday morning teas. We would love the spaces for August, September and October filled. If you are willing to help us then please fill in the form on the table inside the Café door or phone Sheryl at the Church Office.

0-18 MINISTRIES
Lighthouse Preschool & Nursery – We are looking for an administrator for our pre-school in Halswell.  Hours will be Monday & Wednesday 8.30 – 12.30, with the possibility of extending later. Start asap. If you are enthusiastic and flexible, this could be for you. Experience with ECE admin an advantage but not essential. Phone Lisa on 322 8192 or email your CV to lisa.thelighthouse@clear.net.nz.

SYC Quiz Night – The Annual SYC Quiz night is upon us July 30 from 7.30pm at 244 Lyttelton St. Get your tickets from Info Centre or church reception, cost $10 pp.  We require items big and small for prizes and auctions. Please get in touch if you have anything to contribute please contact Wiremu 021 2429157 or email wkingi@swbc.org.nz.

SYC International for Teenagers – Starts on July 31. Meet in the Spreydon Site Cafe 4 – 7pm on Sundays. $2 per session. We’d love some people to come and help prepare dinner and driving vans on a Sunday. If you’re interested in hearing more, please email Claire crussell@swbc.org.nz

MINISTRIES
Craft Group – July 25, from 7.30pm, 246 Lyttelton Street. Cost $2. Bring along a craft you are working on. All are welcome. For more info contact Treena-marie 03 338 0448 or email treena.marie@gmail.com.

Healing Rooms welcome you for prayer, on August 1 between 7.30 – 8.15pm. 248 Lyttelton Street. For more info contact Karen, ph 3384163 or healingrooms@swbc.org.nz

Project Esther – presents Melinda Tankard Reist. Monday August 8, 7.30 – 9pm in the Spreydon Auditorium. Melinda will be speaking about ‘The Sexualisation of children in the Media’ and ‘what we can do about it’. Entry by gold coin donation. Donations will support the work of Hagar.

Marriage Preparation Course for you and your fiancée, five Wednesday evenings from August 10, in the Hub Cafe from 6.30pm – 9pm with the well-presented DVD series by Nicky & Sila Lee. Cost $95. Includes ‘Prepare’ questionnaire. For more information and registration forms visit the  SWBC website, or contact Murray and Janine Close on 338 3608 or email meclose6@gmail.com

Living Apart Course – starts  August 18 from 6.30 – 9pm in the Hub Cafe. We’ll do  a seven week course ‘Restored Lives’, for anyone who has been separated, divorced either recently or a long time ago. Dinner provided at 6.30pm DVD starts at 7pm with support group until 9pm. To register please contact Peter & Rachael 027 5099920 or  email livingapart@live.com.

Fresh Perspective Mentor Training starts September 1, 7.00pm – 9.30pm Halswell Site 6 Balcairn St. Cost $40. This is a course for those already journeying closely with someone or for those who would like to develop or widen their mentoring skills further. The training aims to be more intentional than friendship alone and yet less intense than a professional course. It is strengths-based, solutions focused, relational in nature and missional in heart. For more information or to register please contact Lidwina Clarke on 027 271 1686 or email lclarke@swbc.org.nz.

GLOBAL
Global Night Market – The night market is a great celebration of the different cultures that make up our SWBC community, and is made possible by you all. To run a stall or get involved email John jsrobertson@swbc.org.nz.

The next Kolkata newsletter is coming out soon. If you would like an emailed copy contact jsrobertson@swbc.org.nz and we will add you to the list. For printed copies, check at the Info Centre.

Our church member Sione Lalahi is involved in the early preparation stages of Alpha in Tonga. Pray for Sione, running an Alpha training from 22-29 of August and for all those who are translating.

Starting Soon is a monthly prayer group to encourage and support Phil and Chris Carr in the challenges of completing the translation of the New Testament. Time of prayer group will  be settled on your feedback. For more Info please contact Phil & Chris Carr 022 417 2437 or Evelyn Lalahi 03 3388 598 or  021 0291 6084

SENIORS
New Horizons for Seniors and Younger. Please contact Ruth or Alison ph 338 4163 ext 229 with queries. See Info Centre for a timetable.

Thursday August 4 – Trip to Hanmer Springs. Cost $12. RSVP with money by July 28. We will be leaving at 9am from 244 Lyttelton Street early to break up our trip. Bring your lunch.

Monday August 15  – Quiz with the Famous Dave Adams. 12.15 – 2pm. Cost $5 for lunch, in the Cobham Hall.

GLOBAL PRAYER FOCUS
INDIA
The monsoon has finally arrived in India, and with it an end to the high temperatures, and relief for farmers around the country who have been waiting for rain. The last 2 years have seen low rainfall, so a good monsoon season will help farmers. The life of the poor in India, both those in rural areas and those in the large slums of the cities, is difficult and fragile. Pray for India – that there would be Good News for the poor – a life full of hope and joy and a chance to grow and thrive.Our team in India are continuing their language study, and have started to make good connections with people in their neighbourhood. Pray that they would persevere with their language study, be able to take risks, and use their new language skill to build deeper relationships. Pray as they make friends and get to know their neighbourhood, that God would give them wisdom to know how to work with the local community to bring new things. Pray for good insight into the culture of their neighbourhood, and for good friends who can help them understand.The children are getting used to life there, and settling in to school and kindy. Pray that they would thrive there and make good friends. At the end of August the team will host a group of 7 young adults who are going on a Global Exposure trip. Pray that God will prepare the teams hearts to hear his voice while they are in India.

PASTORAL CARE
Prayer – Our love and sympathy to Adrienne Stewart and family on the passing of Lionel, Gaylene and Peter Anderson on the passing of Gaylene’s father, Felicity & Jessica Tyson on the passing of Felicity’s father and Mark & Maureen Norrell on the passing of Mark’s mother, aged 105.Mercy Basket – This week we require canned peas/corn and tuna.  Also marmite, honey, pasta sauce, creamed rice and toilet rolls. Thank you for the continued support of this very special ministry – Sheryl

Congratulations to Robbie and Emma Blakelock on the birth of their son Jamieson Joel Blakelock.

Wednesday Early Morning Prayer Meeting – Come and  join us in the front room of 246 Lyttelton St, as we pray for the life of our church. Each  Wednesday  7 – 8.30am. Come for as long or as little time as you  wish! You are warmly welcome!

LEADERSHIP

 

 

 

 

 

The above graph shows our giving YTD to end of June and the positive upwards trend. Thank you for your prayerful support and response!

Next Discovery Lunch is August 14 and is for those new to our church. If you would like to come along and hear about the church, places to belong, learn, grow or to contribute, please leave your name at the Info Centre or email Si Hart at shart@swbc.org.nz.

Alpha Term 3 – Starts on July 26. For more information or to register email Lizzie at echee@swbc.org.nz.

Local Missions Week – The Adventures of the Mystery Prayer Bus on Wednesday August 3 at 6pm we’ll meet for dinner then board buses and pray through the South West. Register on Connect or at the Info Centre.

COMMUNITIES
Halswell, Aidanfield and Wigram Community Lunch, Sunday July 17, at 6 Balcairn Street. Finger food pot luck, eating at 1.00pm. Open for a hot drink at 12.30pm. All welcome – invite friends and neighbours. Contact Janet 021 1477656 for further infomation.

0-18 MINISTRIES
SYC Quiz Night – July 30, 7.30pm 244 Lyttelton Street. Get a team of no more than 5 together – mates, neighbours, colleagues  and have some fun at our SYC Quiz night! $10 a ticket per person. Tickets are available from Reception, Info Centre, SYC Youth Groups or door sales on the night. For more info contact Beccy bhealey@swbc.org.nz.

SYC International for Teenagers – Starts on July 31. Meet in the Spreydon Site Cafe 4 – 7pm on Sundays. $2 per session. For more information contact Claire Russell  crussell@swbc.org.nz.

Strengthening Families 5 week ‘Parenting Teenagers’ course. Listen, learn, support and encourage each other. Starts Tuesday August 2, cost is $10 per person. Held at Aidanfield Christian School – 2 Nash Road, Halswell. RSVP essential to Amy Smit amy.smit@aidanfield.school.nz.

MINISTRIES
Supporting those with Memory Loss – If you suffer from or care for a loved one with a significant memory loss condition we would like to hear from you and find out how we can support you as a church family. Contact Ellen Cooper  on 338 4163 ext 227 or email ecooper@swbc.org.nz.

Healing Rooms welcome you for prayer, Saturday July 23, 10am, at 248 Lyttleton Street. For more info contact Karen, ph 3384163 or healingrooms@swbc.org.nz

Project Esther – presents Melinda Tankard Reist. Monday August 8 7.30 – 9pm in the Spreydon Auditorium. Melinda will be speaking about ‘The Sexualisation of children in the Media’ and ‘what we can do about it’. Entry by gold coin donation. Donations will support the work of Hagar.

Marriage Preparation Course for you and your fiancée, five Wednesday evenings from August 10, in the Hub Cafe from 6.30pm – 9pm with the well-presented DVD series by Nicky & Sila Lee. Cost $95. Includes Prepare questionnaire. For more information and registration forms visit the SWBC website, or contact Murray and Janine Close on 338 3608 or email meclose6@gmail.com

INFUSE Men’s Events & Community Connect Group. To join this group login to Connect on the SWBC website, select Groups. In the ‘Find a Group’ box type in INFUSE and request to join the group if you are not already in it. Upcoming Men’s events will be posted through this group. For further enquiries contact Kevin Stevenson 0275 677 118.

GLOBAL
Global Night July 11 7.30pm in the Hub Cafe. Come along and hear from Kylie and John, pray for our people overseas, and focus on migrants and refugees around the world.

SENIORS
New Horizons for Seniors and Younger. Please contact Ruth or Alison ph 338 4163 ext 229 with queries. See Info Centre for a timetable.

Monday July 11 – At the Halswell Hall 6 Balcairn St from 12 – 2pm. Bring your group board games to play and enjoy lunch, cost $5  for soup and bread.

GLOBAL PRAYER FOCUS
BANGLADESH
Last Friday, July 1, twenty hostages were killed when Islamist militants stormed a cafe in Bangladeshi’s capital Dhaka on Friday. Three police also died. Although there has been an increase in attacks by Islamic extremists in recent months, this is the country’s worst terror attack. Attacks in the past have been aimed at foreigners, Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, gay activists, secular writers and Muslim academics. This most recent terrorist attack targetted a cafe popular with foreigners and all the hostages killed were foreigners.Please pray for Bangladesh – for an end to the violent attacks, and for strong voices to be heard that cry for peace and understanding between different groups in the country.

Pray for wisdom for the leaders of Bangladesh, that they would make wise and good decisions that benefit all the people of Bangladesh.

Pray for our brothers and sisters studying Bible and theology at CCTB and CDC in Bangladesh.

Pray that they would stand strong in their faith and be courageous in sharing the good news of Jesus despite the increased risks.

PASTORAL CARE
Congratulations to Pete and Alanna Chapman on the arrival of Jonah Hudson, Luke and Renee Gardiner on the arrival of Ranger, and to Nick and Lauren Yannakis on the arrival of Bradley Lucas.Emily Wiggins and family want to express their gratitude to the Church family for all the prayers and support we received during Ted’s illness and since his passing. For all the visits, flowers, baking and cards – we have been overwhelmed with such loving kindness and support. Thank you!Edwin Close – A big thank you to all of you who have helped me celebrate my 90th birthday.  I have been amazed and glad to be able to go over memories of so many past blessings and experiences.Mercy Basket – A big thank you for all your generous donations over the past few weeks! This week we require creamed rice, canned peas & corn, 2 minute noodles, biscuits and long life milk. Thankyou, Sheryl.LEADERSHIP

The above graph shows our monthly giving to May. May’s giving showed some upward lift; for which we are very grateful. The Elders looked at this closely at their meeting on Tuesday night. We are praying that we can do two things to enable us to meet budget. Firstly a 5% reduction of spending and then asking the church to pray and reconsider giving with the prayer goal of lifting our giving by $10,000 a month (or $2500 a week). Please pray with us.

Discovery Lunch – This Sunday June 26, is for those new to our church. If you would like to come along and hear about the church, places to belong, learn, grow or to contribute please leave your name at the Info Centre or email Si Hart at shart@swbc.org.nz.

Alpha 2016 – Thank you for your support so far. Please continue to sign up to help with food on the day, either at the Info Centre on  Sundays or on Connect under Alpha Volunteers – click on ‘Needs’ to sign up for a specific dish on a specific night. To get weekly prayer updates please join the Alpha  Supporters group. For more information contact Lizzie at echee@swbc.org.nz.

GENERAL
A donation was made at the Info Centre on May 29 with an invalid offering number. If you made a donation that day, could you please contact Sheryl at the Church Office 338 4163. Thank you.

Part time church cleaner required for Saturdays. 4 – 4.5 hours, flexibility to work around event bookings is necessary. Some cleaning experience would be an advantage. If you are interested in applying please pick up an application pack from the Info Centre or email Lee-Ann lboyne@swbc.org.nz.

0-18 MINISTRIES
SYC Quiz Night – July 30, 7.30pm 244 Lyttelton Street.Get a team of no more than 5 together – mates, neighbours, colleagues  and have some fun at our SYC Quiz night! $10 a ticket per person. Tickets available soon from Reception, Info Centre, SYC Youth Groups or door sales. For more info email bhealey@swbc.org.nz.

Strengthening Families 5 week ‘Parenting Teenagers’ course. Listen, learn, support and encourage each other. Starts Tuesday August 2, cost is $10 per person. Held at Aidanfield Christian School – 2 Nash Road, Halswell. RSVP essential to Amy Smit. Email: amy.smit@aidanfield.school.nz.

SHARP Trust – Wanted SHARP Afterschool programme Leaders. For more details check out the volunteer page at www.sharp.org.nz or contact 03 338 0673.

The SYC & Children’s team would love to have a tidy clean working fridge freezer for their 237 Lyttelton St office. Our old fridge freezer ices up, leaks on the floor and only very brave people put their lunch in it. Contact Grant Chivers if you can help – gchivers@swbc.org.nz

MINISTRIES
Prayer for International Ministry – Please join us as we pray and seek God for the new season of local ministry with International people. We’ll meet in the Halswell Auditorium on Sunday (June 26) 3.30 – 5pm & Monday (July 4) 7.30 – 9pm.

Craft Group – Last Monday of each month,  from 7.30pm, 246 Lyttelton Street. Cost $2. Bring along a craft you are working on.All are welcome. For more info contact Treena-marie 03 338 0448 or email treena.marie@gmail.com.

Whetu Stars – Saturday July 2, 2 – 4pm at 6 Balcairn Street for fun, food and faith. Our vision is to support families and their children with disabilities/special needs, as they seek to lead their children in God’s ways. We will focus on Esther. Contact  Andy ph 338 4163 ext 238 or e-mail acarpenter@swbc.org.nz

Women’s Clothing & Accessories SWAP  Is your wardrobe ready for a revival? Then bring in all your unwanted ‘accessories & clothing’ for a night of swapping, styling and sweet treats. Saturday July 2, 7.30pm at Halswell. Tickets are available from the Info Centre or Reception. Cost $5.

Healing Rooms welcome you for prayer, Monday July 4, between 7.30 – 8.15pm or Saturday July 23, 10am, at 248 Lyttleton Street. For more info contact Karen, ph 3384163 or healingrooms@swbc.org.nz

South West Underground Prayer Meeting – Our prayer meeting for Christians that are persecuted for their faith will be held at 7.30pm, on Thursday July 7, 246 Lyttleton St. To receive our newsletter, please email Tony Kan at  tonykan@xtra.co.nz.

Marriage Preparation Course for you and your fiancée, five Wednesday evenings from August 10, in the Hub Cafe from 6.30pm – 9pm with the well-presented DVD series by Nicky & Sila Lee. Cost $95. Includes Prepare questionnaire. For more information and registration forms visit the  SWBC website, or contact Murray and Janine Close on 338 3608 or email meclose6@gmail.com

GLOBAL
Starting Soon! Is a monthly prayer group to encourage & support Phil & Chris Carr in the challenges of completing the translation of the New Testament. Time of prayer group will be settled on your Feedback. For more info please contact Chris & Phil Carr 022 417 2437 or Evelyn Lalahi 03 3388 598 or 021 0291 6084

Night of City-wide prayer – July 1 starts 7.30pm at  at the La Vida youth Centre 34A Hansons Lane, Upper Riccarton. On the “Night of Power”, Muslims all over the world will be seeking dreams and visions and God’s forgiveness and help. Come together to pray for the Muslim world.

SENIORS
New Horizons for Seniors and Younger  Please contact Ruth or Alison ph 338 4163 ext 229 with queries.
Thursday July 7 – 10.30am,  Coffee Morning  and Bring & Buy “COW” Table, The Hub Café, 244 Lyttelton Street.

GLOBAL PRAYER FOCUS
CHAD
The country of Chad in North-central Africa is facing significant challenges due to ongoing drought, water shortages, and large numbers of refugees arriving from neighbouring countries fleeing war and terrorism.At present there are around 400 000 refugees in Chad. Now is the time that the rains should be beginning – pray for a good wet season, that crops would grow and food and water would be plentiful. Pray for the leaders of the region, that they would be able to work together to find solutions to terrorism, to provide for refugees, and to work for peace.
Right now the Muslim community around the world is observing Ramadan – a time to reflect on their life and faith. Pray that many would be drawn to seek truth during this time and that journey would lead them to Jesus.We have people working in two regions in Chad. Diane is involved in translation work with a group in Southern Chad. She will return to Chad in July after a short break away. The W family work in the north and are currently at home following the birth of Hannah in February. Pray for God’s strength and encouragement to be with them all.

PASTORAL CARE
Prayer – Our love and sympathy to Derek & Jane Wenmoth on the passing of Derek’s father. Please continue to pray for Lionel Stewart as he faces challenging health issues.Mercy Basket – Thank you for your generosity over the past two weeks, the items we need are pasta sauce, spaghetti or fettuccine pasta, cup of soups and muesli bars. Thanks, Jordy.

Sunday Prayer Team – If you would like to be part of a Prayer Team that prays for people at our Sunday gatherings please speak with Warren directly or email wread@swbc.org.nz. Training will be provided.

Wednesday Early Morning Prayer Meeting.Come and  join us in the front room of the white house, as we pray for the life of our church. Each  Wednesday  7 – 8.30am. Come for as long or as little time as you wish, everyone is welcome!

LEADERSHIP
Our Next Discovery Lunch is June 26 and is for those new to our church. If you would like to come along and hear about the church, places to belong, learn, grow or to contribute, please leave your name at the Info Centre or email Si Hart at shart@swbc.org.nz.

Alpha 2016 – Thank you for your support so far. Please continue to sign up to help with food on the day, either at the Info Centre on  Sundays or on Connect under Alpha Volunteers  –  click on ‘Needs’ to sign up for a specific dish on a specific night. To get weekly prayer updates please join the Alpha  Supporters group. Start thinking and praying about who you will invite to Term 3 Alpha. For more information contact Lizzie at echee@swbc.org.nz.

Baptism – If you would like to know more about water baptism, or would like to be baptised, please email Janelle – janelle@swbc.org.nz or leave your details at the Info Centre.
Church Prayer Night – June 15 in the Spreydon Auditorium 7.30pm. Come along and pray for the life of our church.

Daily Readings – Readings are available for pick up at the Info Centre on a Sunday or you can download these from the website or read on the church App.

0-18 MINISTRIES
SHARP Volunteer Drivers Needed
Are you free on weekdays between 2.45pm to 3.30pm to help SHARP Trust collect children from school and drop them at the afterschool programme? For more info please contact Larissa Emmerson 03 3380673 or sharp@swbc.org.nz.

Wanted SHARP After School programme leaders
Being a SHARP leader is a fantastic way to: Develop your leadership skills, learn how to work with a group of children, make lots of new friends, gain work experience, have training opportunities and be part of  social events. For more info check out our volunteer page at www.sharp.org.nz.

MINISTRIES
Healing Rooms – welcome you for prayer, on Saturday, June 25, between 10.00am  – 11.00am, at 248 Lyttelton Street. For more info contact Karen at ph 3384163 or healingrooms@swbc.org.nz.

Women’s Clothing & Accessories SWAP. Is your wardrobe ready for a revival? Then bring in all your unwanted ‘accessories & clothing’ for a night of swapping, styling and sweet treats. Saturday July 2, 7.30pm at Halswell. Tickets are available from the Info Centre or Reception. Cost $5.

Changes at Ricecube – In Term 3 we are launching a new programme that is designed for International teenagers. We’ll meet from 4pm – 7pm on Sunday afternoons at the Spreydon site. We also have prayer times planned over the next month, to seek God about what the future of multicultural ministry looks like, particularly in the wider Halswell/Wigram area. We’d love you to join us as we pray. Visit the website for prayer times. Contact Claire for more information.

COMMUNITIES
Halswell, Wigram and Aidanfield Communities. A pot luck, finger food community lunch Sunday June 19 at Halswell. Come along and bring friends or neighbours. Open at 12.30pm for a hot drink and we will eat at 1.00pm to give those from the 11.00am service time to arrive. For more info contact Janet 021 1477 656.

SENIORS
New Horizons for Seniors and Younger. Please contact Ruth or Alison ph 338 4163 ext 221 with queries. See Info Centre for timetable.

June 20 – 12.15 – 2pm in the Cobham Hall. Living well and  eating well Part 4.  Healthy slow cooking & stir frying. Bring along your slow cooked food and recipe or pay $5. Please let Ruth or Alison know what you will be bringing.

OTHER
Open Home Foundation – Foster Parents Needed. We are looking for caring people who are willing to open up their heart and home to care for a child or young person. This could be for a weekend once a month for respite, a week, or sometimes longer.

The role would be ideal if you: have experience in caring for a child or young person, have a passion for children/young people and want to make a difference in their lives and have a strong empathy for our organisation’s Christian and bi-cultural values.

As an Open Home Foundation foster parent, you will receive reimbursement for the expenses of having a child in care on a fortnightly basis, initial induction training and ongoing training and 24/7 social work support.

For an application pack or further details please contact: Ruth Manuel ph 03 366 5977 or email Ruth.Manuel@ohf.org.nz

GLOBAL PRAYER FOCUS
Papua New Guinea
Over the last few months we have prayed for rain to fall in PNG, as they were facing drought at the beginning of the year. Thanks so much for your prayers – it has started raining and the worst of the drought is over. Continue to pray for the country as they recover and rebuild after this disaster.The government of PNG is facing economic difficulties and some loss of confidence in the government. Next year there will be an election, so there are lots of confrontations and allegations in the lead up to that. Pray for the government and opposition in PNG. Pray that they would be concerned for the people of PNG, rather than for their own position and power. Pray for a good government for this country.

Phil and Chris Carr are our partners working with the Bamu people in PNG, although at present they are in Christchurch. They work with a team of local guys translating the Bible. They report that the current heavy rains mean that solar-powered computers are not working well! Despite drought and rain, the team have completed a draft of Romans and are working on Hebrews. Pray that the completed scriptures would be well received by the people and bring hope and life to the Bamu people.

PASTORAL CARE
Prayer – Wednesday early morning prayer meeting. Come and  join us in the front room of the white house, as we pray for the life of our church. Each  Wednesday  7am – 8.30am. Come for as long or as little time as you wish. Everyone is welcome.Mercy Basket – Thank you so much for your ongoing support of this valuable ministry. This week we require creamed rice, pasta snacks, long life milk, pasta and canned fruit. Thanks, Jordy.

Sunday Prayer Team – If you would like to be part of a Prayer Team that prays for people at our Sunday gatherings please speak with Warren directly or email wread@swbc.org.nz. Training will be provided.

The Project Esther Team will be leading the service at the Christchurch Women’s Prison on June 5. We would really appreciate your prayers to support us in our work there and for the women attending these services.

LEADERSHIP
Alpha 2016 has started! There are great opportunities to help with hospitality and prayer. You can sign up in the Foyer on Sundays or go to Connect and join these groups – Alpha Volunteers  –  click on ‘Needs’ to sign up for helping with food and hospitality on a specific day or Alpha  Supporters – join the group to hear what’s happening and how to pray. For help logging onto these groups, please contact Ellen Cooper ecooper@swbc.org.nz. For any other Alpha related questions, please contact Lizzie at echee@swbc.org.nz.

Baptism – If you would like to know more about water baptism, or would like to be baptised, please email Janelle janelle@swbc.org.nz or leave your details at the Info Centre.

Church Prayer Night – June 15 in the Spreydon Auditorium 7.30pm. Come along and pray for the life of our church.

Daily Readings – Money Series –  Readings are available for pick up at the Info Centre on a Sunday or you can download these from the website or read on the church App.

Advent Calendar Props – We’re already planning our 2016 Advent Calendar – it’s only 6 months until Christmas! There are some props we’ll be needing for our photo-shoot – check out the ‘What’s Happening’ blog on our website to see if there’s anything you could lend or help us find. Thank you.

0-18 MINISTRIES
SHARP Volunteer Drivers Needed  – Are you free on weekdays between 2.45pm to 3.30pm to help SHARP Trust collect children from school and drop them to the afterschool programme? For more information please contact Karen Koid  03 3380673 or kkoid@swbc.org.nz

MINISTRIES
Project Esther is able to offer subsidised counselling with Ruth Langford. Ruth works with both individuals and couples. Counselling includes the following areas; grief and loss, self
confidence, stress and anxiety, depression, quake related issues, communication skills, separation and divorce, relationship breakdown, work/life balance, ante and post-natal anxiety/depression, emotional / physical / sexual abuse, career/personal growth development, spirituality. Ruth works from the Project Esther office, 248 Lyttelton Street. For more information or to make an appointment, Ruth can be contacted on ph 0273087527 or email ruth.langford@gmail.com.

Changes at Ricecube – In Term 3 we are launching a new programme that is designed for International teenagers. We’ll meet from 4pm – 7pm on Sunday afternoons at the Spreydon site. We also have prayer times planned over the next month, to seek God about what the future of multicultural ministry looks like, particularly in the wider Halswell/Wigram area. We’d love you to join us as we pray – Contact Claire for more information.

Fresh Perspective Mentor Training starts June 9, 9.30am – 11.30am in the Cobham Hall. Cost $40. This is a course for those already journeying closely with someone or for those who would like to develop or widen their mentoring skills further. The training aims to be more intentional than friendship alone and yet less intense than a professional course. It is strengths-based, solutions focused, relational in nature and missional in heart. For more information please contact Lidwina Clarke on 027 271 1686 or email lclarke@swbc.org.nz.

SENIORS
New Horizons for Seniors and Younger. Please contact Ruth or Alison ph 338 4163 ext. 221 with queries. See Info Centre for timetable.

Thursday June 2, 10.30am in the Hub Cafe. Coffee morning; Bring and Buy “COW” table. Morning tea provided.

OTHER
2degrees Discount – Together the Baptist Union and 2degrees are offering a 7.5% discount when you switch to their Pay Monthly scheme. There are flyers available from Info Centre and Reception with the individual discount codes.

Romanian Christian Community (Bisercia Crestina Harul) meets every Sunday afternoon  4 – 6pm at Bryndwr Baptist Church. Contact Pastor Cadmiel Vlasin 0273214811 for more information.

GLOBAL PRAYER FOCUS
INDIA
Although most of India is still having heat waves and drought, a tropical cyclone in the Bay of Bengal has brought record breaking rainfall to West Bengal, dropping temperatures into the mid-30s, which local papers call “pleasant” and “comfortable”. This is not supposed to last long, though!Our team in India write: “Apparently it is the hottest spring here since 1954, so at least we have fair cause to be feeling hot! Despite that, things are still ticking along albeit at a slightly slower pace!  Our language is continuing to build (we all passed our uni tests!) and we are always attempting to use it out and about in the community. We are spending more time with those down the canal community and building some really positive and potentially important relationships there. It feels like we have a number of balls in the air relating to business ideas, projects and spaces, and at the moment we are just keeping those all in the air till we are more certain of our future direction.”

Pray for stamina and good humour for the team as they adjust to the heat and humidity.  Pray for their continuing development as a team and as a global site, and that they would build good relationships with key people in their community.