This morning Keith turned us to 1 Thessalonians 1:8-10 to reflect on the kind of idols people living in Camden might have: the quiet lifestyle or the nice home. We saw from the passage that it is good for people to turn from idols to serve the true and living God - it is good that they turn and escape the wrath to come and it is good that God is rightly glorified.

Prior to our meeting, the men gathered at 6am for their weekly men's breakfast bible study. 6am every Wednesday! That is commitment to be gathering before work to steep in God's word and enjoy breakfast with your brothers. It is an encouragement to us that this group exists.

At midday, the team met with the staff of St John's to glean wisdom from the way they structure and run ministry. One of the biggest things we've noticed on this mission is their pastoral care. They have lay members volunteering their time to visit people who are sick or suffering, or who have missed a few weeks of church. There is structured Word ministry groups throughout the week to grow different parts of the congregation. It was a privilege to sit with the staff and learn from their experience.

At night was Meteors and GFS, the primary aged groups for boys and girls to gather weekly and hear from the bible. Brian, Edwina and Beth gave talks at their respective groups. We are encouraged by the environment and culture of these groups. It is a safe and supportive space for the kids to spur one another on, especially for those with difficult backgrounds or are struggling at school.

Camden fun fact #4: Camdenites love the Evangelical Sisters of Mary. They are a group who rely on donations from the community as an expression of their dependence on God to provide for their every need. We visited them to go on a tour of the place and brought fresh fruit and vegetables to donate. They sung us a Welcome Song upon arrival!

The chapel that they meet in was actually a St John's building. It was sold to the Sisters for them to have a place to gather. It was really interesting to hear about their history and their ministry in producing literature that is sent out worldwide.

We were heartened to hear that they trust in the true gospel and share it with all their visitors and tour groups.

 

http://mission.moore.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/SIsters-of-Mary-Welcome.mp4

 

Please pray for:

the mens bible study to continue building up and strengthening the faith of those who attend

St John's staff to continue serving the church body with joy

the ministry of Meteors and GFS to continue providing a safe space for kids to grow in their love for Jesus and for one another

the Sisters of Mary to hold firm onto the gospel and keep witnessing faithfully to the locals and visitors