New birth

Our Corps continues to grow! Congratulations to Colin & Marion Sampson on the birth of Eden Phoebe, a beautiful baby girl born last night at Flinders Private. Mum and bubs are doing well, according to Angela who spoke to them just a little while ago.

But we're not just growing biologically. Today two more people asked to join our ranks as volunteers, one in the shop and one in the office. For many of our current worshippers, this is the first step toward their inclusion in our faith community and their acceptance of Christ for themselves.

Good things are happening!

Volunteers

I am always grateful for the people that volunteer their time to support the mission and ministry of our Corps.

Tonight we are having our annual event where we thank all of our staff and volunteers for their efforts and contributions.

Of course, some of the most significant volunteer hours are given by soldiers and adherents of our Corps that seek no appreciation except to glorify God and reach our community with the gospel. To those good people, I still want to say thank you for your contribution to God's Kingdom. It is noticed and valued.

I also appreciate the extra mile given by everyone at this time of year. Just today, apart from those helping Angela organise tonight's event, there are people leading Bible studies, organising shop sales, collecting at Westfield, running our counting house and banking, acting as couriers, collecting food from supermarkets and radio promotions, playing carols, sorting donations and all sorts of other things. I'm even aware of soldiers of our Corps running friends to hospital today.

God is in everything you do for him. Thank you.

PS Please keep in mind Majors Doris and Ross Lewis and pray for their family. Doris' mother, Mrs McKeand died this morning aged 99.

Cheryl McIntyre

Today I was going to share great news... like a shout out to the Pioneer Companion Club for giving over $1000 to the Fred Hollows Foundation. (Well done team).

But sometimes there's breaking news that's more important.

Just a few hours ago we were saddened to hear that Cheryl McIntyre has died. Cheryl was a much loved staff member at Marion Salvos, serving in our Community Support Team over the last 3-4 years, first as a volunteer receptionist and then as an employed support worker.

Cheryl had a deep, incredible and informed faith. She loved God and loved people. Cheryl cared for everyone that came to our centre and demonstrated the love and care of God to all she encountered. She was a strong, genuine and compassionate person. She would be the first to bring something from the paper or the news we may need or be interested in.

God made a one-of-a-kind when Cheryl was born and we were among the privileged that shared the journey with her. Lynette, Angela, Kerryn, Margaret and I were extra-privileged to get to see her this morning and spend some time with her husband, Geoff. It was another demonstration of their generous spirit, allowing us in to their private and sad time as they did.

Many of us have shed many tears today.

Thank you God for Cheryl. Thank you that we knew her. Thank you that she knew you and showed it.

A big day or two!

A big day or two at the Corps.

Yesterday the playgroup celebrated Christmas in style, including crafts, songs, gifts and the seemingly obligatory visit by Santa. Then the final pieces for the playground area arrived and were assembled by some of the youth team. A bit of rearranging and it will be ready for use.

Westminster School had six students at the Corps doing their annual community service day. They helped in our shop, with the furniture, with some of the Christmas toys and with the playgroup party. We enjoy hosting students from our local schools and exposing them to some of that which The Salvation Army is about.

Last night was the basketball grand finals. Two of our teams, the mens A team and the under 14s made it to the final. While neither team won, they had great seasons. Congratulations to Danielle Nunns who was best and fairest for the Women's B Grade competition.

Today, early on, we joined members of the Myer Marion social club who are assisting us this Christmas. From there it was over to the main hall to celebrate Christmas with the Pioneer Companion Club who put on a great show. Congratulations to Ross, Doris and their team. This evening the band provided carols for the Bucklands and Pines nursing homes. Both centres appreciated the visits.

In the meantime, much of the everyday continues. Community Support services again filled their appointments, Judith and Lynette worked in the office looking after the pastoral matters and the office goings-on and the garage sale was in full swing, albeit with a damp start.

Pray for each other during this busy time. There are opportunities a plenty for our Corps as we remind our community that this Christmas season is not our birthday, but a celebration of Christ.

Christmas Party for the Community

A massive "THANK YOU" to everyone involved in yesterday's Christmas Gift to the Community. 223 people (give or take) attended and enjoyed a Sunday morning with a difference. The number of visitors made the effort worth while, and over the next week we will be inviting them back to our Christmas Carol service on December 20th.

We recognise the risk this was for our 10am congregation, and we understand that such a change from a normal Sunday could be confronting, even disturbing.

Thank you for your willingness to go with the flow and embrace the idea of what we were endeavouring to do in engaging with our community.

Schools

They're almost finished for the year. Last night Stella Maris had their end of year assembly and mass... one week to go to holidays.

Last night was also the end of year concert at Brighton Primary. For the fourth year running they invited our church to be there, not only as representative of the churches and services in the area, but to participate. Paul McDonald represented us well and the Community Support team will benefit from the schools tin drive.

Today the schools fun continues. Pray, as we head to Warradale Primary School for their celebrations, and also as our own Kidzone have their Christmas party and break-up this afternoon, that we shine God's light in Adelaide's south through these activities.

Marion Primary School

Our Christmas ministry took a fun turn last night with the band participating in a carols night at Marion Primary School. Congratulations to Vanda Shulver and her team for their work in bringing this night together.

We were also given a 30 second spot to advertise the Christmas Gift to the Community/ Street Party this Sunday morning. Hopefully a number of parents would be interested in coming along and bringing the kids for some fun. We took the chance in this 'ad spot' to emphasise the commonality we had with the school in both being critical parts of our community.

A good night had by all - even our own Santa's helper with the uniquely Yorkshire accent.

Consultation

It's a funny word that means different things to different people. This week we are undertaking a consultancy with our shop staff.

Around 40-50 people work in our shop each week. They contribute immensly to our public image, our capacity to help people, our material donation processing, the appearance and maintenance of our centre and our finances. They are good people who need to be heard.

This week (and into next if needed) they each have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with me about marketing and sales, donor care, customer care, volunteer care, displays, waste management, supervision of the shop, OHSW and any new ideas they have.

Please pray that this process is a positive one and that Lucy and I are able to discover the best way forward for the shop in 2010.

Commissioning

I hope that as many of you as possible were able to view the webcasts on the weekend. We had a good time at the hall watching the Sunday afternoon celebration on the big screen. Karyn's testimony was touching to hear, and I'm sure we were all appreciative of the positive reference to her time at Marion. Please pray for her, and Mark, as she assumes her appointment at Craigeburn in the new year.

(For those unaware of Melbourne geography, Craigeburn is a new suburb in Melbourne's far north; quite a big housing development).

These times of celebration remind us about how God is moving in The Salvation Army still. He is still saving people and calling people into ministry - and there are still people responding.

You may like to pray for the other South Australians commissioned on the weekend. Peter and Dianne Hobbs from Unley Corps have been appointed to start a new Corps on the Bellarine Peninsula (near Geelong) in Victoria, and Nathan and Jenny Rowe from ACH have been appointed as the Corps Officers in Shepparton (northern Victoria).

What's happening in the neighbourhood

First some good news. The shop on Tuesday had a record sales day. Well done to Lucy and her team. Also, our community party (only 10 days away) has already recieved some air time on Life FM. Let's look forward to that great day.

Today I was called out to see Todd (name changed). Todd has lost his goods in a house fire a few years ago. He lost his job last year through a worker's compensation claim. He lost his wife a few months ago because she could no longer handle his depression. He cannot afford his rent because they took out the lease when there were two income earners in the house. He cannot afford his child support and has lost access to his son because he cannot afford to feed him.

That's a lot of loss. Todd is ready to quit life. He is serious - and has tried suicide before. He had the intent and the means so we needed to act. We talked through a plan to keep him safe and made access to the mental health intervention team. We made sure that he didn't have the tools available to do anything silly for now. We made a pact for him to keep some appointments tomorrow. We've also made plans for some financial intervention early next week with the help of our financial counsellor, Gail.

What struck me is that this is all going on in a very nice street... only two doors down from one of our key community leaders who has helped our cause out quite often. I wondered as I chatted with Todd if the people in his street had any idea what was happening in their neighbourhood.

Do we have any idea what's happening in our street?

Patience

A guy from NZ in the 80's had a hit song that went something like this:

Patience is a virtue
Posess it if you can
You gotta wait and see

I'm finding patience with myself in short supply this week. I simply can't keep the pace I normally would - not even close! Sitting and writing can wear me out. Hopefully I'll be back on top of things soon.

According to Paul (Gal 5:22), patience is something the Holy Spirit works in us to produce. It is a 'fruit' that grows in our life with the Spirit's influence. Maybe part of my growing this week is to learn more about patience.

Certainly we are seeing the benefits of patience around the centre. Our playground, that we have waited two years to open, is getting very close. There are barrells with soil waiting for plants, the plumbing is finished and this afternoon I get to go and look at some furniture. The BBQ is outside and we are now just waiting for the landscapers to show up with the soft-fall bark. It is our intention to open and dedicate the playground as part of our Christmas party for the community on December 6.

Time

It's an interesting commodity, time. Especially when you have a lot of it on you hands, but can't do much. Causes me to see Paul's letter to the Ephesians in a new light - be careful how you spend your days, as wise and not unwise.

Also causes me to think about all the things we normally spend our time on and whether they are all worth the focus they receive. Let's be wise.

Hospital

Hi all

In not wanting to create a fuss, I seem to have created a fuss. For those that are unaware I have required facial/ sinus surgery this week.

The proceedures were relatively simple, requiring a realignment of my nasal septum, reduction of some swollen glands, excise of a polyp and then resetting the whole thing back in place. Not everything went smoothly - a burst blood vessel in my sinuses that wouldn't corterise caused a few headaches.

This will mean that I am out of action for at least this week. Angela and the team are carrying on, and I'm sure there'll be no interruption to the service or the activity of the Corps. Next week, also, I will be confined to 'desk duties' and the 'light duties' following that.

Ange & I appreciate you support and I look forward to being back in the swing of things - and able to breathe properly for the first time in a while!

One Mission

What a great weekend. Congratulations to the South Australian Divisional Headquarters team on putting together an excellent conference and combined meetings for The Salvation Army in this state.

Lt Colonel Geanette Seymour and Captain Robin Moulds were inspired choices as speakers in the worship times. Chatswood Songsters, Geoff Bullock, ACH Band, Parafield Gardens Corps Children's Choir, the Raymond sisters - all musical contributions were of the highest standard. Most importantly God was at work.

I am personally disappointed that more of our Corps weren't able to be a part of the weekend. I understand that the heat took out a few people.

For the few that came along: what a weekend!

Protecting the unity of the church

Some events of the last 24 hours have led me to contemplate the unity of the church and those things that can affect it.

While we have great social networking and are possibly more connected than ever through means such as Facebook and MySpace, they are also media that are very public and can damage relationships and how the church is seen.

Let's all make sure that when we post something (e-posting or snail mail), say something or portray something, we take a little time to think with a Kingdom perspective. These media could be the means of bringing someone to a point of decision and salvation, or could drive them from the church and the gospel for good.

Caroling

Yep - we're off and racing for another caroling season. Early? You bet - but we can't pass up the gig to play in Santa at Westfield each year. Our band is seen by more people on the days we go to Westfield than probably most Salvo bands throughout the year.

They did us proud, too, both through the mix of traditional message-laden carols and modern Santa tunes, and through their witness and prayer at the end. Good job guys (and thanks to child care expert Bronwyn).

For everyone who follows, a reminder that tomorrow our church services are at Wayville Showgrounds - Ridley Pavilion. They are at 10 and 2.

Corps Finances

Hi all

I thought that it was worth sending a note to all of our Corps just to let you know about our Corps financial situation.

The Corps runs a very tight monetary ship and has a large budget. Our loan repayments on our building, for example, are around $78,000 per annum and about to increase. Our wage bill is about $6000 per fortnight, not including Angela and I, and not including the CSS staff who are paid by a different cost centre.

Then there's the utilities, projects, programmes... and you end up with an annual budget of just under $0.5 million (again not including CSS which adds around another $250,000).

The reality is that we are running a deficit budget at the moment. Our shop income has decreased this year, even seasonally adjusted, and our Sunday morning offerings have dropped by around $200 per week (which adds up very quickly!). We are doing everything to reign in our expenses by commensurate amounts, but so far to limited avail.

Please pray about this situation and if you are involved in any position where you can influence this matter (even by turning off a light switch), please do so.

Back on the horse

It takes a while to get back into the run of things. Having only been away for less than a fortnight, I feel as if it might as well have been months. Lots of things happen quickly and getting my head around them has been interesting.

In the meantime it has been good to be reminded of the things that matter. Looking at my devotional reading this morning in Galatians 1 & 2 I was reminded by Paul that there is only one message that we need to be proclaiming - God's grace in Jesus and his want for relationship with the world.

Now that I'm back on the horse, I've got to make sure I'm riding on the right track.

What a great Sunday!

Hi all,
Firstly, thank you for your prayers and support while I've been away. I'm back safe and well and in one piece after a great experience.

More importantly, what a great Sunday. Please continue to pray for our newest soldier Sarah, and our newest adherents Brenton, Kaye, Kathleen and Glenda.

I appreciated the message from our Chief Secretary, Colonel Raymond Finger. We have to keep choosing to step out for God, to cross the next line of commitment to holiness and service and to trust that his grace will be sufficient for us in our efforts. Certainly as I am trying to pick up the threads around here after a break I'm relying on God's grace just to know where to start.

But start we do, and we look forward to the rest of the year and all the celebrations and opportunities that come with One Mission, Christmas and the summer season.

Co-operation

Today I was impressed, as I often am, by the co-operation between some of our teams. Monica and Mark had a young guy that was headed off on a camp to help with self-confidence and leadership as part of his employment program. He arrived for the bus without a pillow, a raincoat or some of the other gear that he needed. A quick visit to Lucy and her team and he was kitted out, with the agreement of Kerryn so that CSS could cover any costs.

Just after this Lynette and I were in negotiations with the electoral office about leasing our hall as a poling booth for the upcoming state election. It would require relocation of one of the youth activities. Mark was willing and it looks possible that we might be able to showcase our church to the whole neighbouhood next March.

These are small things but they make the biggest difference to the way we work together and serve our community.

On another note, I've come to love a song by Casting Crowns, and I thought I'd share the lyrics of the chorus with you:

Not because of who I am, but because of what you've done
Not because of what I've done, but because of who you are...
I am a flower quickly fading, here today and gone tomorrow
A wave washed in the ocean, a vapour in the wind
Still you catch me when I'm falling, and you hear me when I'm calling
And you tell me who I am...
I am yours!

Who's in?

It was great for Angela and I to be able to share lunch yesterday with our old friend Graeme; he's over from Melbourne for a week's leave.

Graeme and I have a congregation in Melbourne that is common to our personal histories. It is a place that we love, where there are many good people worshipping and serving God. But it occured to us, with the benefit of hindsight, that it was quite insular. Further, we both think that we were only able to break into that congregation because we were the same as everyone else. We were of the same Salvationist heritage, we were of the same ethnicity and we had some of the same interests.

When we were at the leadership summit last week, one of the Scriptures we looked at was in Luke 15 - the story of the lost son. It struck me that in the end, the ones that were 'in' were the misfits like the lost son. The ones that were 'out' were the supposedly faithful ones - the elder brother - who was too busy sulking in the paddock to enjoy the party. Moreover, the party was paid for out of the elder brother's inheritance!

Let's not lose our inheritance, or the chance to party, through intolerance or a lack of welcome.

Allowing the enquiry

During our Sunday afternoon service on the weekend, we were a little sidetracked by the persistent questioning of one of the congregation. I commend the whole group for their patience and their persistence. Rather than judgement or condemnation, everyone joined in the discussions and the community worked to see if we could assist the enquirer.

I hope that we all come with an inquiring mind to worship and to our service. It's how we learn. It's how we converse and sharpen our ideas.

I hope that both of our congregations continue to be places where people can ask the questions that they feel they need to.

Global Leadership Summit

The Summit is on again. Ten leaders from our church are sharing together, alongside 1000 others in Adelaide and 160,000 others by simulcast around the world, over a two day summit.

This summit is the premier leadership training event on the calendar each year, and it is thanks to the people of the Willow Creek Association for the way that they make it possible for us to access such great teaching.

Today we heard from Bill Hybels about making sure we are equipped to lead the church through the economic situation the world is in, and also about making sure our own 'bucket' of spirit and energy is full enough for us to lead in these times. We heard from the lady that founded KIVA, a micro-credit organisation that lends almost a billion dollars a year in 185 countries after just five years of operation. We heard from an Ugandan entrepreneur about the way that trade is more important than aid. We also heard from Gary Hamel, one of the world's foremost business thinkers about change and transition in the church.

Perhaps the most challenging speaker of the day came last, when we were reminded about the Prodigal God and were warned to be neither the elder or the younger brother in the parable. The challenge was to make sure that as people of God we were obedient because of our salvation, not thinking we were saved because of our obedience.

We look forward to tomorrow's speakers, including Bono and Tony Blair. Please pray for our church's leaders as they learn and are equipped to better serve our community.

The Doc's funeral

There's been a few funerals lately, and we're not finished yet - we celebrate the life of Clive Bates next Tuesday.

Yesterday I was privileged to assist with the celebration and remembrance for Professor Raffele Scicchitano. The Doc, or Raff (as we variably knew him) was a leader in research and treatment of thoracic and lung cancers. He was a leading medical officer in the Australian Army, serving on five deployments for his adopted country. He was a great family man. He was also a man of faith - and an inquisitive and genuine man in the community. All who truly knew him loved him, it was that simple.

I learnt a lot through Raff. I learned about the value of irreverence even in serious matters. I learned about inquisitiveness and the value of the well-phrased question. Indirectly, I learned about awakening someone's faith even in horrific situations, as it was in Afghanistan that he shared living space with Chaplain Craig Potter who helped rekindle the Doc's curiosity about God.

I am honoured to have shared a part of our journeys together and to have been a part of celebrating his life.

General Change

We have been notified this week of the planned General Change for officers in our territory next year. We are pleased to advise that Ange and I will be staying at Marion for at least another year (and hopefully many more).

Please pray for those affected by the general change announcement. There are people connected with our church directly involved - including my parents who are on the move from PNG back to Melbourne where my Dad will take up responsibility for Employment Plus. Our Division is affected with a new Divisional Secretary, Divisional Corps Program Secretary, Divisional Youth Secretary and Divisional Candidates Secretary. And our cadet, Karyn, is affected - but we won't know her appointment for another month.

Remember these people in prayer. Over the next few months of upheaval, they'll need it.

Diverse experiences

A day at Marion Corps is never dull.

Today we started with a relatively calm gathering of people interested in accessing our services. By midday the police and the mental health crisis services were here. Personally, I think it was overkill, but regardless the day had taken a turn for the strange.

This afternoon some order was restored as I was able to meet with our student's supervisor from Flinders University to talk about her progress, and then help Dave with his soldiership classes. Tonight we'll finish with the Pastoral Care Council. Pray for their meeting and counsel.

God is keeping us on our toes. We are not in any way naive to what is occuring in the community - we see it every day - but we are able to share hope, love and grace because of who Jesus is and what he has done. We are able to create an alternative community and culture where our world is confronted by justice and mercy.

Please pray for our community support services staff and volunteers. Pray for their team leader Kerryn. Pray for the safety and security of our centre.

Oh... and PS... plese also tonight pray for the families of officers in our territory that have been notified that they are moving at the end of the year. Their appointments will be mostly announced tomorrow. With that comes some aprehension, uncertainty, expectation and grief at leaving the familiar for the unknown. And... just in case you're wondering, Angela and I aren't going anywhere!

What a weekend

Well, what a weekend!

Friday was huge, with such a great "Main Event" run by our youth team. Over 80 young people enjoyed horizontal bungy, rock climbing, carnival games, DJ groovy sounds, Wii, PS3 - a whole range of activities. A visitor was blown away by both the number of kids and the diversity of the kids - well done to Mark and team.

Congrats to Paul, Sarah and all those involved in the Creative Kids Camp. Angela tells me that Friday night's concert was great.

Sunday morning we were touched as people listed their families and friends on our prayer wall - people that they want to come into relationship with God. As we pray for them this month and onward from here, let's believe in faith that God will come into their lives and transform their worlds.

Sunday morning was also a good chance to speak to some more people who are interested in membership of our movement. Did you know that there are currently 6 people interested in Salvation Army soldiership and 4 people interested in Adeherency. Please pray for them, and for the senior pastoral care council as they counsel and prepare these folk for membership.

Sunday afternoon was a little adventurous as far as services go. Mark spoke on 'getting along with each other' and it seems to have been a salient message. Please pray for stable relationships and healthy community for those attending our afternoon congregation.

Hope you had a restful Labour Day (that sounds contradictory doesn't it). Enjoy the rest of your week.

Service

So it's been a few days since I've blogged. But a lot has happened.

I've been again blessed and impressed by the service offered by Christians in our church.

Two cases in point:

Margery's unit needed cleaning up and her furniture needed to be moved out before the Housing Trust could conduct their inspection. Angela, Dave and a team of others went down to the house yesterday and did their thing.

We also recieved a thank you from Melbourne where Karin recieved a gift from our college friends team.Vida and her supporters have a great ministry supporting cadets that are training for ministry. Did you know that we have two cadets connected with Marion Corps currently in training? Karin Wishart completed her out-placement with us this year, and Fiona Kean (nee Hailes) spent a few years at the corps as a child in the 1980's. Pray for them both.

And keep it up, team!

Be Still

Psalm 46:10 - Be still and know that I am God.

This verse was shared this morning at Margery's funeral. It was among her favourites and it was a pleasure to hear from her own notes why it was so meaningful to her.

As Ange read the verse there was a stillness in the room. I think God was speaking to us very clearly. We need to take those opportunities to stop and know God. Today it was through Margery's testimony. Tomorrow, maybe we'll get to stop and rest and know God. Find some time to be still...

God's goodness

"Surely your goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life" Psalm 23:6
Many of us know this Psalm backward. How many of us read this verse and believe it? The New Living Translation states that "Your goodness... pursues me all the days of my life".

It doesn't mean every day is good. It just means that there is good in every day and that God's goodness is reliable.

A simple thought, but one that has helped me this week.

Saluting the saints

The past 24 hours have been among the saddest for our Corps. While we grieve, we cannot help but thank God for the privilege of serving alongside some wonderful saints.

Margery
Margery Hodgen died early yesterday morning. She sat in our church in the front row each week, usually next to Spencer. I remember tearing up seeing her come to the mercy seat one week, wheeled by Spencer. Margery will be remembered for her softly spoken fervour for the Lord, her extraordinary prayer life, her faith in the Lord and her all-of-life witness to his greatness.

Willy
Willy Kiessling died at lunch time yesterday. We are still in shock. Willy was a woman of the Word, having attended Bible college in her younger days and being a keen attender of the Monday ladies' Bible study whenever health permitted. She smiled even when she was in pain. Correction - she beamed even when in pain. She loved working in the thrift shop, and loved every chance she had to do even the smallest things that may help the children's ministries of our church. At times she knew the worst of circumstances, but her faith never left her. This is a woman who taught us about resilience, persistence, patience and graciousness.

Uncle Dick
My friend Uncle Dick also died on the weekend. He was one of the most beautiful men I ever met. I had the privilege of sitting near him in the Preston band for a number of years - I was on the end of the cornet bench, and he was on the end of the horn bench so we were beside each other. He exuded Jesus Christ in every encounter you had with him. He wanted the world to know his saviour and he started with his family, then the people of our Corps in Melbourne, and then anyone who would listen. An utter gentlemen and a saint, Envoy Richard Collett OF has left a massive hole in the ranks of The Salvation Army with his passing.

So we stop. We take a deep breath. We pray for the families and others concerned. We cry. Most of all we celebrate: We are a fortunate people that have met wonderful saints on our journey and God has allowed us to serve alongside them.

To you alone, O Lord, to you alone, and not to us, must glory be given because of your constant love and faithfulness. (Psalm 115:1) That was the testimony of Margery, Willy and Uncle Dick. It has to be ours, too.

God's timing

This hasn't been the easiest week since I've been a leader in a church. There's a lot going on, and a bit of stress in the air. Much of it is my responsibility (?fault) for being lax around some policies in the interests of community, but that has compromised security, safety and sustainability of some of our workplace practices.

As we've struggled together to resolve this, God keeps sending me messages that are really like refreshing showers:

On Sunday he convicted me to speak to people about playing on when we get hurt.
This morning in my reading plan was a passage from Revelation about 'enduring to the end'.
The passage I was working on for a church parade at the Army barracks next week was about the example we set (from Titus chapter 2).
There has been encouragement from strange sources and friends making contact that I haven't heard from in weeks.

God knows what we need when we need it. He's always there supporting, but of course we need to look positively for his activity in the world to see it sometimes.

Community

Community is sometimes the hardest thing to maintain, even if it is supposedly that which comes most naturally to us. We are made for community. As people made in God's image we are created for relationship. As God has eternally related in relationship between Father, Son and Spirit, so we are meant to eternally live in relationship with God and with others.

Then why does it get hard? Why do we get territorial and protective? Why are we nervous about opening ourselves up to community?

There are no simple answers. There is no simple balance, especially when relational needs in organsations conflict with operational needs. And even though we believe that the community and the relationship take precedence, we cannot neglect the safety, security or sustainability of some aspects of our operations.

Let's keep working toward community and loving. We'll probably have problems along the way, but I'd rather that than miss out on that which God has intended for us.

Family

While we've celebrated as usual this weekend at Marion Salvos, and thank God for trusting us with three new people again yesterday, a sense of sadness is upon us. Our friend Margery is unwell and may not survive the week. She is loved among our 10am congregation where she faithfully attends and sits in the front row.

We are also sad because Margery has no relatives in Adelaide to help with her personal affairs. It is an honour, in many respects, that Flinders Medical Centre have phoned members of our church community, as Margery's "family", for help with some things.

For every Margery that we have reached and connected with, how many are in our communities that we are yet to reach with God's love, light and grace? How many more elderly (or young) ladies (or men!) need us to be their family?

Seek first to understand...

A friend of mine, on his blog, has related the story of a young student that wandered into his church, waited in the foyer and watched. She didn't understand what was going on, and more people were talking about who she was rather than talking to her.

Daryl's church isn't unique - and the story, including the strange glass barrier between the foyer and the sanctuary, could have been written at our church. In fact, I'm sure there are times that what we say and do alienates visitors. We get the picture totally upside-down.

Modern theorists remind us that we should help people belong before we expect them to believe what we share, let alone change behaviours (should that actually be needed).

This isn't new theory, though. St Francis of Assisi legendarily taught, "Seek first to understand rather than be understood".

Let's always listen and love, so that some may see Christ.

Diversity

It's amazing how diverse a day can be. Today I've seen a couple preparing for marriage, worked with our team leaders at lunchtime workshopping some dreams and ideas, helped our Community Services team while some staff were out, set up for a Camera Crew from Today Tonight that are in our centre and spent some time looking at our review of volunteer police checks.

Never a dull moment.

Whatever it is we are doing, it's important that we make sure it is contributing to God's big picture. How is each thing we do contributing to the transformation of people and their ongoing discipleship? How do we ensure we are glorifying God and being a part of his "Kingdom Come"?

Good questions to keep asking ourselves.

Celebrating the good

There's days that don't run the way you'd like them to. I had one of those today; at one point I felt ill from the way things were going.

It's times like these that you need to celebrate the good. And you don't have to look far to see it. For example, Blake, a young man connected to our church through Community Services and then through our youth program approached Mark (our youth pastor) on Sunday afternoon after worship. He wanted to have God as a part of his life. Praise God. And thank God it's not an isolated incident.

For now, these are the things I'll hold on to. Paul (New Testament type) did tell us that whatever is noble, lovely and pure - we should fix our minds on these things. Good advice.

Oh, and by the way, sorry to those followers who've had trouble leaving comments. I believe that I've now fiddled with the settings to allow this. If you are still having trouble, please let me know.

Cheers all.

St Aiden's Day

A great Sunday at Marion Salvo's again. In the morning there was a spirit of unity - so much so that some of our welcome team commented on the 'feel' as people arrived. The afternoon congregation were challenged by a guest speaker, Brad (what a great name), to take on Jesus yoke.

He used the example of St Aiden, the Ionian missionary sent to the Saxons following their conquest of the Britons. St Aiden was following another missionary who had taken the approach of condemning the Saxons and wondered why it didn't work. Instead, Aiden approached them with humilty and one by one was able to introduce the Anglo Saxon people to Christ.

His approach saw thousands accept Christ. The Anglo Saxon converts became the English people, who formed the Anglican church, from which the Methodists and subsequently the Salvationists come. Our movement owes a lot to Aiden, even though he lived and served in the sixth century.

Today happens to be his feast day in the Anglican tradition. Perhaps Salvationists, too, could take a moment to learn from his story. Look him up on the web. I get the feel that our approach to our community should be like his approach to the Saxons. Let's be a humble, gracious and listening people that journey alongside the people of Adelaide's south and together see where our stories fit into God's big story.

Training

There's always something happening at Marion Salvation Army. For one thing, this weekend we celebrate Mark's 30th birthday - congratulations Mark (Mark is our youth pastor).

Also, Angela, Paul and the children's team are at a training day today entitled "Kidwise". Opportunities like this help them to hone their skills for the sake of the children they endeavour to reach with the gospel. Well done to the team for taking the opportunity to learn.

We all need to keep learning. See you tomorrow in worship.

Ezekiel

Despite my friend Margaret's overview a few weeks ago when she shared the message at our church, I happen to be in the middle of reading Ezekiel. It's part of my regular reading plan.

It's not an easy read. I can only imagine how Ezekiel felt when he was experiencing such visions and being asked to share them with the people of Israel in exile.

Thankfully God promised to steel him for the task, and as always, God kept his promise. And Ezekiel was able to go through with whatever it was that God asked of him and to share whatever it was that God showed him.

May we have the same courage, knowing that we always have the same God and the same support that Ezekiel did.

Holiday?

Apparently I've had one. Let's just call it a week away from the usual, because it doesn't feel like I've actually had a break. Maybe that's what kids do to you.

Even though I return to the mission here at Marion, probably just as tired as when I left, I know God has continued to refresh me spiritually and intellectually. I've been challenged at the Super Cluster gathering and I've had a good time in the Word while we've been away as a family.

Now to put my office back together after the painter has been through and get to work.

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to and end. They're new every morning. Great is his faithfulness. (Lamentations 3)

Supercluster

OK... so it's a wierd name for an event. The Supercluster is a gathering of the Growing Healthy Corps Officers from around our territory each year in Melbourne. It is an opportunity to hear from pastors and officers on the journey toward growing healthy corps in their locality, and to glean ideas for our own journey.

This year's guests were Rev Dr Paul Borden from the American Baptist Churches of the West (California, USA) and Ps Bob and Luann Cherry, also from California. Their honesty and passion were evident as they discussed their journey and fed into our ministries from theirs.

Most important was the reminder that the internal stuff within each of us comes first - i.e. dealing with our individual relationships with our creator God. From there we ventured with the timeless reminder that the church only exists for those that don't belong to it yet - in other words, we are here for our community, not ourselves.

While we are off on furlough for another 10 days now, we know that the Corps is in good hands with our extraordinary staff. We know that on Sunday when Margaret and Mark preach you are in for a treat, as you will be next Sunday with Neil. We also know that God is continuing to prepare our church for an amazing ongoing ministry among the people of Marion.

God be with you all this week.

Blake's day

I love those days when we get to witness a commitment to Christ in the form of a Salvation Army enrolment. Yesterday we welcomed Blake, our newest Junior Soldier. He looked great, for sure, but better still he publicly stated his faith in Jesus. Thank you God.

Qudos, also, to Marion our Junior Soldier Sergeant, Paul our children's pastor and Mark, Blake's Dad, who have all played a part in his discipleship. The whole church community is responsible for helping this young one be all that he can in Christ.

On another note, today we've picked up a pallet load of groceries for our Community Services Team, courtesy of IGA and our friends at the Port Adelaide warehouse. We are forever grateful to God and our community for the generosity of such sponsors that help us continue to serve.

God be evident to you this week in your journeyings.

Stress

I just arrived home from a day of training to help assist people who have almost given up. Chatting with Ange, I'm told that while some of our team aren't at that stage, certainly there's a little stress in the air today.

Working in communities always has its stressors, as does maintaining and performing well in team environments. Still beats doing it on our own, but we need to find ways in which we can support each other and also care for ourselves.

We are no good to anyone, if not in a good place ourselves.

This week can I encourage everyone at Marion Salvation Army to uphold our team leaders and section leaders in your prayers. Make it a subject of focus during your Pray 155 times. "Pray for us that the message may be delivered and God honoured" (see 1 Thess 3:1)

Vulnerability

Today's topic has been suicide. I've been with a group of Army personnel discussing interventions and care for people contemplating ending their life. It's worth considering the number of vulnerable people in our communities.

It is also worth noting the value of church communities for the vulnerable. They are an incredible resource, when functional and healthy, for people that are in need of support, love and the grace of God. Since I've been home this evening it has been good to chat with a family who need a bit of practical help to prepare their home for the return of a loved one from hospital. I've also chatted with a family in our church bereaved following the loss of a loved one. Both of these families are better off because they have the support of a church around them.

Keep an eye out for the vulnerable around you. Take time to enter into conversation whenever they invite or hint that they may need you. Remember we all need God and as Christians we can offer hope through his good news.

On the run

Well that's how it has felt in the last day or two, but I've got to be thankful for the variety of ministry opportunities that God has brought our way.

Yesterday was a day of diversity. At around 8 am I was talking with a soldier about his concerns with killing. Mid afternoon I was meeting with our retired officers at their regular fellowship meeting where I was able to share about our current ministry experiences. In the evening I was talking to a lady about her heart surgery, and also to a man who has been in hospital with a mystery virus. Each interaction a potential for God's love and grace to be mutually shared.

Today is similar. It's been a bit more formal: meeting with university lecturers and sorting through some financial and property matters at the Corps. But still, it is part of our community context. It is an opportunity for me to explain our ethos and values.

Now when we multiply these opporuntities across the whole of our Corps - each person's interaction with many other people - we see how we are reforming our part of the world through the influence of God in our lives. God be with you all today, and pray, please, for our Pastoral Care Council who have their quarterly meeting tonight.

Keeping focus

Another great day yesterday at Marion. At 4pm it was particularly good to hear a testimony from Kylie and in the morning it was good to hear some of the updates from our Pray 155 season.

Keep the prayer up!

Of course today is another day, and it is possible for people to come crashing down to reality after such a great day in worship. (For me reality hit early with Essendon's tragic loss yesterday). All the more reason for us to have our prioirties right (ref yesterday morning's message) and make sure that as things happen around us we fix our minds on God.

I'll be around and about this week, and ask for your prayers. Tonight and tomorrow I'll be at an infantry soldiers course, sharing with the guys about self respect, belief systems and decision making processes. Tomorrow afternoon I'll be speaking at a meeting for our esteemed retired officers. Later in the week I'll be involved in suicide awareness training.

Trust your week is a good one.

Officers' Fellowship

Readers will note the delay between posts. We've been enjoying a week of Officers' Fellowship in Tanunda, Barossa Valley. It's a time when all of The Salvation Army Officers from around South Australia retreat for some spiritual and physical nourishment. Our divisional leaders have led an extraodinarily good week, and our guest speaker, Roger Brook, was excellent as always.

During the week we were able to have a look at the Territorial programs currently underway: "Salvos Out There", which we will most likely run in January/ February 2010 at Marion, and "Connecting Forward", which is a series of recommendations coming out of the last few years consulation with Salvos around the territory. You will see information on both in our On Fire magazine and in the Marion newsletter.

The most important part of the week, however, was sharing the Word of God around the theme of being "Designed to Last". One verse, in particular, stood out to me during the week. It is John 1:40 - "After they heard what John had to say, they followed Jesus". It stood out because I hope that when I say things, they help others to follow Jesus. In fact, I hope that's the result of everything we say and do at Marion Salvation Army.

A school project

Last term Zoe had a school project where she needed to make a model of a church (she attends our local Catholic parish school). This morning, outside her classroom, there were photos of the class with their models .

Next to the photos were sentences the children had written about the project. Zoe had written, "In the church the people are very important".

"Out of the mouths of babes and infants you have founded a bulwark because of your foes, to silence the enemy and the avenger" (Psalm 8:2 NRSV).

"The Team"

Two or three times a year we are required to sit down with each of our employees individually and conduct a performance review and develop a training and development plan.

I've got to say that this is usually a really pleasurable task, because we have such a great team working here at Marion. This week as we've gone through our mid year reviews, I have again been encouraged by their faithfulness, their Kingdom focus, their love for people and their contribution to our ministries.

Please pray for our staff. They are good people that want to bear God's light to Adelaide's south so that others join us on the discipleship journey.

Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God's people everywhere, I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly. (Ephesians 1:15-16 NLT)

Neighbours

We'd heard stories about our neighbours. He'd gone caravaning. She was almost dead. You name it.

Yesterday I was at the Repat hospital to catch some people and I found our neighbour. The story that was true was quite a bit more tragic than the rumours.

Got me thinking... how well do we know our neighbours? Do we get to know them personally or do we rely on the neighbourhood gossip. I found that a short chat yesterday and I was able to cheer someone up - and get the story straight. I think there's more to be gained for the kingdom when we take the personal approach.

Thanks to everyone who is following the blog. Your comments have been appreciated. Apologies also to the many of you who have said that you can't leave comments on the page to create discussion. I'll try and work out what's happening.

We've spent a fair bit of today focussed on the physical - our building currently has 17 repair jobs either logged or underway. That's before the big stuff like painting the centre and regrading the carpark are pursued.

I get frustrated when there's so much time consumed with the physical appearance and maintenance of a facility. But we see the need to care for the things with which we've been trusted, and to create the space in which the relational and the spiritual can occur. God, who is everywhere present, does great things within this space so we want to make sure it's a place where people want to come and engage with him.

In the meantime, maybe it's the tradies we're to minister to. Look after them while they help look after our centre.

Interdependence

One of the pleasures of school holidays is the chance to do something with the kids. Zoe and I went to see Ice Age 3 this week. Good (and safe) movie. A few laughs for both the adults and the kids.

One of the themes in each of the Ice Age movies is "interdependence". Everyone in the herd, from the mammoth to the weasel, needs each other.

Sound familiar?

Within any community/ herd/ church everyone needs each other. In fact the care that we have for each other is the way that our community knows we are Jesus' disciples.

Making Connections

Throughout today I have appointments with people from groups we want to connect with better. This morning, for example, we were working out how better to engage with schools in our area. This afternoon it's an employment agency and a mental health worker who may be able to provide training for our staff.

This is the bigger scale stuff. While it's going to be beneficial to our mission if any of them 'get off the ground', I'm still convinced that a lot of our best efforts are one-on-one. Last night for example we were able to deliver some assistance to a man in our community freshly out of hospital. We also met a young man who had walked from Outer Harbour to Marion to speak to someone - he's looking for community and some living skills, and we can help with both.

Take every chance you can to connect with people who come into your life. Speak the gospel into them, either thorugh actions or words.

Alignment

Yesterday I was walking a contractor through our centre - he's working on the playground redevelopment.

As I walked through I had the pleasure of passing the Pioneer Companion Club - a full hall listening to musical entertainment. I then passed by some of the Community Services offices which were in full swing. Out the back Monica was training some of the Southern Edge program participants in job searching. The garage sale was soldiering on despite the rain, and the shop was open. Paul and his team were preparing for the next onslaught of the school holiday program. And so on...

For a moment I was proud - and rightly so, I think, of each of our teams and the efforts they put in to reaching our community with God's light and love. Then I had a fresh realisation of how important it is for our teams to be aligned in what they are trying to achieve. Our church exists to bear God's light to Adelaide's south so that other people join us as disciples of Jesus Christ. All of our ministries must have this aim in mind.

If we do keep everything aligned, the territorial objectives - transforming lives, making disciples, reforming society and caring for people - happen naturally. May it be so.

Finishing a job

Today is a day for things getting done.

Many of you would know that I recently graduated from the Master of Ministry course at the Adelaide College of Divinity. True completion came today as I handed the bound copy of my project thesis to the college for their library/ records. Finally - it's all done.

Similarly we finally see the completion of 18 months of planning this week as the playground at the church gets underway. Within a few weeks we should have a functional space for families, including the BBQ and playground, that they can enjoy most of the year around. (I wouldn't be out there in today's wild weather though).

As this happens around me, I realise that I am a work incomplete. Thank God for that! I can relate to Paul who said, "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me" (Philippians 3:12).

International Leaders' Conference

Did you know that the senior leaders of each territory of The Salvation Army are currently meeting in conference? It's flown under the radar a little, but it's worth noting, and please - support our senior leaders in prayer as they gather.

Newsfeeds tells us that the General gave his keynote speech yesterday to the gathered Commissioners. As part of this, he noted that The Salvation Army globally continued to grow at around 1.4% per annum. There was also much discussion around social justice on a global scale.

What's worth noting for us at Marion is that we are part of this. We are part of this growing movement. We are a people contributing to the advent of social justice in our world. We continue with the same task given the disciples: "to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal" (Luke 9:2).

More on that this Sunday... please join us at 10am and 4 pm at Marion Salvos.

Pray 155

This initiative is changing our Corps. As people pray, individually and together, for the work of God in our community, through our Corps, we are seeing things happen.

Since the launch of this prayer season a month ago, we have not had a single service without a visitor. Nor have we gone more that two services without people seeking God's influence in their lives and circumstances through coming forward for prayer.

Can I encourage you all to keep up the prayer? Pray at 1.55 for 155 (Sturt Rd) and our influence around Marion. It's a great time to be part of our Corps.

Phil 4:6 "... with thanksgiving, present your requests to God..."

Anniversaries

Well, they said it wouldn't last... but nine years ago today, two young Salvation Army lieutenants married in Melbourne. Yep - it's our wedding anniversary. It was nice to be surprised this morning with some apple danish and Farmers' Union IC for breakfast. Ange, in turn, had some flowers in the living room waiting for her.

(We also had a great dinner at Swish on North Terrace last week to celelbrate!)

Surprises do us good. They keep life interesting and they show us that people care.

God cares, and if you look around there's a surprise waiting for you at every turn. The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end - they're new every morning! Great is his faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23)

Students

Emiko Matsuo is the latest student to join us at Marion Salvos. We have social work and community services students with us most of the time, doing their practical placements. Emiko is a third year social work student from Flinders University and will be with us until late November. Welcome Emiko!

As I helped with her induction yesterday, two things occured to me. Firstly I was reminded about how everyone connected with our church needs to be conscious of our mission at all times. Where are we headed? Why do we do what we do? What are the dreams and visions for our Corps?

Secondly, I was reminded that we are all students, and need to be learning throughout our life. One example of how important this can be is in Scripture, when Jesus is tempted by Satan in the wilderness. He responds to each temptation through the use of Scripture. If we are to stand as people of integrity and withstand temptations in our own lives we need the background of Scriptures we have learned to aid us. Keep reading and keep learning.

The moving of the Holy Spirit

Isn't it great when God's people get together to worship?

Yesterday was just a great day to be in God's house. In both congregations we had people coming forward for prayer, wishing for a fresh encounter with God. In the 10am service, as many of us recognised our own need of prayer, it was superb to be able to stand alongside our brothers and sisters and 'present our requests to God' (Phil 4:7).

Certainly we have so much to thank God for coming out of the weekend. And heading into this week. Please continue to present our requests to God this week, especially as the youth and children's teams both head toward their special school holiday activities. Think of Paul as the primary aged program starts on Wednesday and also Mark as Habit@ have their holiday sleepover on the weekend. Pray for their teams and for the young people that attend. God will use these events to his glory and the salvation of kids in our area!

Youth and Children

I was challenged this week by an article written by Captain Gen Peterson from Melbourne. She asks The Salvation Army to take seroiusly the discipleship of young people - seeing them as soldiers in their own right.

We have a great suite of youth and childrens activities at Marion. For the toddlers there's a playgroup where we can tell Bible stories and use active play as part of their critical development. For the primary aged kids there are gateway groups like U14 Basketball, Kidzone and the holiday programs, and growth groups like Kids Church and Junior Soldiers. For the teenagers there's the Habit@ gateway group and soon there will be Corps Cadets for discipleship. For the young adults there's Ever-lution, Senior Basketball, Small Group Bible Study and worship opportunities on Sunday. Accompanying all of this are the service opportunities that the young people have.

Qudos to Angela, Paul and Mark and their teams for the way that they work with each of these age groups. Let's all of us ensure that our churches are places where the young are welcome (not just tolerated) and seen for their worth. Check out what Jesus has to say about the little ones of the faith (including new adult Christians) in Matthew 18:1-14.

Ambassadors

Yesterday was our quarterly staff meeting. These are days when all our staff and volunteers meet. Did you know that during any given week over 120 people work in the ministries that occur in our centre, whether that be our shop, our Community Services or our youth and children's activities, as some examples.

While these meetings are mandated (in South Australia, a workplace of our size must have a quarterly OHS consultation), it provides a great opportunity for all our weekday workers to be together, to share in the vision for our community and to gather around the Word.

Yesterday in our devotional time we thought about our role as "Ambassadors". We remembered that every time that any of our staff encounter a member of our community they are ambassadors for Christ, our mission to the lost and The Salvation Army as a whole. When they speak, the community believes that The Salvation Army has spoken.

We have a great team at Marion. They represent us well. Lives are changed because of their work. Thank you Lord.

Governor Scarce

Last night I had the privilege of representing my Army unit, and by proxy The Salvation Army, at a reception at Government House. Our Governor, Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC CSC RANR, is warm and personable and takes genuine interest in individuals. We are fortunate to have leaders such as he within South Australia.

My day also included two encounters with good friends. At lunch I was able to have an open and honest conversation with a friend around matters of accountability. I appreciated his reception and was honoured to be a part of such a "real" conversation. Similarly, later last night an old friend rang from Melbourne.

Each of these encounters emphasised to me the importance of cultivating healthy relationships. Relationships where honesty and genuine concern and love season every interaction.

John 15:12, "This is my commandment (said Jesus.) Love each other in the same way I have love you".

Pioneer Companion Club

Yesterday the 'Pioneers' gathered again. This amazing group of seniors - numbering over 150 when they all show up - meet each week and enjoy life together.

I had the privilege of sharing a devotion with them yesterday. This happens each week, by the way; the gospel is shared. I was led to mention the $90 lottery and the impossibility of winning it - about 45 million to 1. This is contrasted by what we know for certain: God loves us, sent Jesus for us and is faithful and just to forgive us. Futher, we are confident of eternity with God if we are people of faith.

I know that I would rather bet on certainties. This "gospel" (i.e. good news) is as sure as it gets.

To blog or not to blog...

After getting this blog underway, I last night read a challenge from Dan Kimball (author: They Like Jesus but not the Church - worth a read). He was in a classroom, and noticed most of the uni students were blogging or twittering rather than listening. Slightly disturbed, he then found that even in his church there were people on facebook rather than participating in worship!

All of these media have their place. And they serve us well. I've caught up with friends through facebook that I haven't seen in over a decade. I've also been able to have important pastoral conversations in chat spaces with people from our corps.

But none of these communication contraptions and programs replace relationship. None of them give us the same meaningful interaction that one-on-one face-to-face does.

While Jesus didn't have these means of communicating in his day - and I'm sure he would have used them sometime if he did - I can't help wonder about the fact that for the most part, healing came with his touch. He was present.

Growing as we journey

What a great day yesterday at Marion Salvos! Show me anyone who wasn't moved as Spencer wheeled Margery to the mercy seat during the 10 am service, seeing Eric join the 10am congregation for the first time in years, or listening as Jermaine testified about God's work in his life during the 4pm service.

God is at work in Marion!

As we've seen these things happen, as we have people growing in God all around us, I am reminded that we all need to keep on the journey. "Get our own testimony squared away", as Mark said in his message to the 4pm congregation. "Continue to work out our own salvation" was they way the apostle Paul worded it.

Let's all keep doing those things, big and small, that help us grow while we journey together.

Testing...

In a suprise move the other day, someone suggested that they missed the CO's devotional thoughts from the front of Marion Salvo's newly styled newsletter...

This got the juices flowing and now there's this - Brad's Blog.

I hope this is a means of sharing that enriches others while challenging me to find something useful, productive, provocative and edifying to say.

Let's journey together...