We acknowledge the original custodians, the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin alliance, of the land on which our buildings of worship stand and on which we gather.
COMMUNITY NEWS FOR TODAY & THE COMING WEEK
Christmas Bowl—sharing God’s love
Options for donating are to use the envelopes provided at church, visit Crossroads’ Christmas Bowl page at https://christmasbowl.actforpeace.org.au/45154 , scan the QR code on the posters in the foyer, or call 1800 025 101.
Started in 1949 by Rev. Frank Byatt of Williamstown, to assist the refugees from World War 2, The Christmas Bowl Appeal is now supported by thousands of churches across Australia, and continues to meet the needs of today’s refugees.
Last Sunday we learnt about how Ukrainian refugees will be supported by your donations, and this week we will look at the plight of Syrian refugees in Jordan. (SS)
A prayer for peace in Europe
Creator God, we offer you our prayers for the peace of your world. for the well-being and safety of our sisters and brothers in the Ukraine and in Russia: for wisdom for those who hold power, that they might work together for the good of all people: for those who are or will become displaced because of conflict and for those who offer welcome and sanctuary: for peace in our own lives, families and churches, that we might offer justice, dignity and love for all: We pray in the name of the Prince of Peace.
First combined worship service at 10am
The congregations of Hoppers Crossing and Crossroads Werribee combined for worship for the first time last week. The worship service was led by Pastoral Worker Audrey Kateena, Rev Fa’ama Leota, Rev Linley Liersch (Presbytery Minister) and Rev Dr John Evans, (Chairperson of Presbytery).
The service was preceded by the signing of a covenant between the councils of the two congregations, signifying their intention to journey together into the future. Morning worship services will be combined at Crossroads building until and including January 29, 2023.
We sang with gusto the TiS hymn 687 “God gives us a future, daring us to go into dreams and dangers on a path unknown… We will let God change us for new life starts now…” by Elizabeth J. Smith.
Lessons were read by people of both congregations. A pastoral prayer was read by Ken S, including these words: “We pray for those charged to meet together to plan how both congregations can exist and work together… and also with any new developments on the Crossroads site…” and “we give thanks for the time shared with Uniting Wyndham over many years and pray as they move from this site they can continue on with their outreach programs… from their new location.”
The sermon was preached by Rev Dr John Evans on the text from Matthew 24; “On tradition and apocalypse.”
This writer felt heartened and encouraged by the coming together of people from Crossroads and Hoppers Crossing Uniting Churches, in the one place.
Over tea and coffee in the foyer, members mixed and mingled; seizing the opportunity to get to know one another. (NT)
Christmas carol service: Next Sunday @ 7pm
We are so blessed this year to have Judy Vincent lead our Crossroads Carols Practices and Service.
Carols Practices are from 5.45pm – 7pm commencing this Sunday, 6 November until 4 December. A call out to all you choristers, why not come along and join in.
Please ring Wendy if you wish to be part of this year’s Carols service – or just come along.
Sammy Stamp calling!
Lois C (pictured) of Crossroads congregation says: “As Christmas cards are coming please save your used stamps, and bring them to the Sammy Stamp box in the Crossroads foyer, for Sammy Stamp end-of-the-year collection. Over many years now, people of the Uniting Church have brought stamps to the Synod office; there they have been sorted and sold to raise thousands of dollars for church outreach projects in Australia and fraternal churches abroad.”
As “snail mail” becomes less popular, and letters are replaced by social media and emails, postage stamps are becoming more valuable. Sammy Stamp has an important role to play, supplying used stamps to collectors, and helping church mission outreach. (NT)
Wyndham Inter-Faith Network’s end of year 2022 gathering
Members of Crossroads and Hoppers Crossing congregations are invited to the informal Multi-Faith social get-together, on Tuesday 13 December at 6–8 pm. Bring a plate of food and drinks to share, and meet delightful people from Hindu, Catholic, Buddhist and Moslem communities in Wyndham. We want to overcome prejudice and build friendships of respect and understanding. The venue is Wayaperri House, 106 Duncans Road, Werribee, same as the recent Multi-Faith dinner (see pic). You don’t need to book; however it’s good to indicate your intention to be there; contact Rev Neil Tolliday 0402817673 or Rev Fa’ama Leota 0401592359. (NT)
What’s On This Week – 4 December
- 4 December: 10am Combined Crossroads & Hoppers Crossing Holy Communion
- 11 December: 10am Combined Crossroads & Hoppers Crossing—Audrey Kateena
- Monday: 9.30am Playgroup
- Sunday next: 7pm Carol Service
Bible Readings
Isaiah 11:1–10; Romans 15:4–13; Matthew 3:1–12; Psalm 72 (1–7, 18–19).
ROSTERS:
SUNDAY
Minister:
Greetings:
AV:
Morning Tea:
Flowers:
Music:
Reader:
Prayers:
4 December
Rev Fa’ama Leota & Audrey K
TBC
Jacob & Elliot
Jan S & Elizabeth B
Lorna H
Angela M
TBC
Jan B
11 December
Audrey K
Margaret B
Paul Cochran
Jan B & Zelda C
Bev C
Gina R
TBC
Carol N
Housekeeping & Help
Pastoral care will be maintained during these difficult days but it is subject to the rules regarding access to hospitals and aged care homes.
Please contact:
- Rev. Annetia Goldsmith – On Leave at present (9741 1084 minister@crossroadsunitingchurch.org.au)
- Audrey Kateena (0435 064 088 pastoral.carer@gmail.com)
Audrey will be the primary contact on Mondays and Thursdays and Annetia at other times.
CHURCH OFFICE INFORMATION
The Church Office is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 12.00pm.
Telephone 03 9741 1084. Postal address is PO Box 2156 Werribee 3030.
Email office@crossroadsunitingchurch.org.au