St. Margaret’s Parow, South Africa
Service Times
Contact Details
Sundays Holy Eucharist: 07h30 & 09h15
Rector: Rev. Canon Chris Ahrends Cell: 082 902 4194 Email: chris@chrisahrends.com
Sunday School: 09h15
Curate:
Wednesdays Holy Eucharist: 09h00
Rev. Nino Julius Cell: 082 998 0269
Parish Secretary:
Email: njulius9@gmail.com
Jennifer Edwards Tel: 021 939 3943
Ordinands:
Fax: 021 939 2276
James Adams
stmarg@telkomsa.net
Cell: 071 326 1040 Nicky Zyster
Parish Verger:
Cell: 084 332 3325
Innocent Maposa Cell: 0745400527
Fellowship of Vocation Candidate Physical address: 69 Hopkins Street, Parow
Shahieda Gardener
St. Margaret Anglican Church, Parow a church without walls :: swimming upstream :: wounded healers :: a place for community ::
Pastoral Lay Workers Veronica Lodewyk Michael Evertse E-mail CONNECT Editorial team at: Retired Clergy:
mag.stmarg@gmail.com or herschelle@telkomsa.net
Rev. David Isaacs Rev. Arthur September Rev. John Speelman
WATCH OUT FOR OUR NEW WEBSITE
www.stmargaretsparow.org.za 48
A bi-monthly publication encouraging faith, love, family and community June / July 2017
Inside this Issue
Electronic Pledging
Pentecost and Youth month images
3
From Our Vision Statement
4-5
Editor’s Note
6-7
Message from our Rector
8-9
In Conversation with Rev. Nino
10-11
St. Margaret Parish Mission in a Nutshell
12-13
Celebrating Youth Month
St Margaret’s Bank Details Bank: Branch: Code: Account type: Account Number:
14
Reflections from our young people
15-20
How to make a difference as a Christian Youth
21-25
Diocesan Youth Synod
25
BAY Jersey Drive
26
Kahlil Gibran - On Children
27
Sunday School & FBI
Standard Bank, Parow 031110 Cheque 071624392
Please quote your Pledge number
28-29
A Prayer for Peace - Maya Angelou
30
Welcome New Members
31
Creative: Fruit of the Spirit Maze
32
67 Minutes
33
Youth Day - 16 June
34
The Contemplative’s Way
35
AWF
36-37
Fathers Day
37
Health: Kahlil Gibran On Eating and Drinking
38
Green Anglicans
39-40
Parish Diary & Cartoon
41
A Feminist Fathers’ Day - Article
42-44
Book Reviews
45
Lay ministers’ details
46
Electronic Pledging; Revising APB; Invitation
47
Parish Directory & Information
48 2
Please join us for a cup of tea or coffee in the hall after Sunday services - it is an opportunity to get to know each other and to build community! 47
LAY MINISTERS’ CONTACT DETAILS Barry Hermanus Candice Thys Giscard Heradien John Burgess Julena Norkett Kevin Cole Margaret Pelton Mark Solari Pamela Hanekom Shireen Joseph Trevor Bevie Veronica Lodewyk Shahieda Gardener Paddy Williams Michael Evertse
0738701 179 0823654109 083299 2190 0828870959 0834107537 0832864735 0219316450 0219306622 0219395394 0714252255 0219300452 0219396332 0799732629 0825677412 0723785976
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We are St Margaret's – a community of faith who have heard God's call and choose to be God's family in this place and this is our VISION
Book reviews “Have you ever longed to be able to draw or paint, write or compose music? With The Artist's Way you can
1. We are a Church without Walls Welcoming every sister and brother, living by the values of our faith, * Inclusion * Whole-making * Forgiveness * Reconciliation * Hope * Love Sharing God's love in a changing context – in a neighbourhood filled with opportunity, equality, freedom, but also conflict, poverty, unemployment, homelessness and hopelessness, guided by the Holy Spirit, we follow Jesus who himself chose: reconciliation over apartness servanthood over power justice over selfishness hospitality over closed-mindedness forgiveness over the holding of grudges Serving the world as living sacrifices so all may know the love of God, putting our love into action & laying down our wants, our choices for the greater good
discover how to unlock your latent creativity
and make your dreams a reality. With the basic principle that creative expression is the natural direction of life, Julia Cameron leads you through a comprehensive 12-week program to recover your creativity from a variety of blocks, including limiting beliefs, fear, selfsabotage, jealousy, guilt, addictions and other inhibiting forces, replacing them with artistic confidence and productivity. This book links creativity to spirituality by showing how to connect with the creative energies of the universe. The Artist's Way provides a twelve-week course that guides you through the process of recovering your creative self. It dispels the 'I'm not talented enough' conditioning that holds many people back and helps you unleash your own inner artist. Its step-by-step approach will enable you to: start out on your own path to creativity, dissolve the barriers that prevent your creative impulse from finding expression, use your rediscovered talents in whatever way you wish, learn that it is never too late to start fulfilling your dreams. The Artist's Way helps demystify the creative process by making it part of your daily life. It tackles your self-doubts,
2. We Swim Upstream, by
self-criticism and worries about time, money and the support to pursue
Worshipping God through our rich legacy of Anglican all-age worship
your creative dream. It has already helped thousands of people to uncover
in song, in silence, through old and new liturgies, Engaging in on-going Christian education – in being stretched in mind and thought, in theology and action Embracing especially our young people, our junior church and all beginners in the faith, those who meet in homes and in groups Challenging conventions and structures, while being challenged by new ideas and insights
their hidden talents - it can help you, too.”
4
“All began in love, all seeks to return in love. Love is the law, the teacher of wisdom, and the great revealer of mysteries.”― Starhawk 45
relationships, they seem to come out in full force around certain special occasions: proms, weddings, Father’s Day. This Father’s Day, though, I want to have a conversation about what it really means to be a good father. Especially to a daughter. I want to give a shout-out to those fathers that raise their daughters to own themselves and do it proudly. To the fathers that sit through dance recitals and practice hitting line drives with their daughters. To the fathers that let their children shape their own genders. And I want to thank my own father for all he did
3. We are Wounded Healers
for me. For buying me a toolkit that matched his own when I was a little girl at home with him. For telling me how much he always wanted a daughter without
making me feel like that came with a certain expectation. For showing me what it meant to be respected. For teaching me to question. For protecting me not by policing my body, but by demanding that I make my own choices and trust them. These are the things that I want to celebrate about fatherhood this year. Because
fatherhood is not the same thing as patriarchy. And that deserves to be recognized. Because I know that while my father may not identify himself as a feminist, I certainly would not be one without him. And for that, I am forever
Praying daily, individually and collectively, our times of deep and nourishing prayer enable us to grow Spirituality; becoming Green, Caring and Healthy in Lifestyle Living in the grace of new beginnings we become our sister's keepers, our brother's comrades, our children's protectors; caregivers to the sick and homebound, a community for the poor; filled with Spirit of possibilities, our eyes drawn to the Light of Christ; one in Fellowship; Recognising that we have bruised each other and our hearts still break from time to time with memories of a painful past but we choose to stand in together in forgiveness, as prayerful, caring, wounded healers of the gospel of God’s Grace
grateful. Happy Father’s Day.
“We now aspire to a new and better social model, one that encourages fathers to be equal parents, and pushes them towards spending more of their time doing something that is going to make them happier: spending time with their kids. So to all the dads, Happy Father’s Day. And to all the mothers, grandmothers and daughters and feminist agitators—thank you for helping to make this new social model of being a dad, possible.”
4. We are a Place of Community
Gifted with many talents, gifts, resources we share abundantly and gratefully what we have Building and nurturing our Precinct and Properties for the spread the Gospel and as places of beauty and peace, we create a sanctuary in the city – a place of peace in a busy world Partnering with those who share our values and vision, we offer ourselves and our church as a place of community and love
This is our vision – our picture of our preferred future! We are St Margaret’s – a community committed to walking together, becoming everything we believe God has called us to be! 44
5
Dear Parish family
speech. And it’s true. But more and more these days I have been thinking about
When I am preparing to go away on holiday, I enjoy the anticipation nearly as much as the actual time away! The countdown starts a month away from our departure date and I surround myself with a plethora of to do lists. And of course packing is an essential part of all the preparations. Woe to me that I would arrive at my destination without a few essential items… With all the exciting, deeply spiritual and also heart wrenching experiences that we have encountered this year on our St Margaret’s journey, it is increasingly essential that we are fully equipped with the nuts and bolts of our faith, in order that we can ‘stand and keep on standing’. To this end our ‘Parish Mission in a nutshell’ (albeit a mouthful) makes us aware that the journey has just begun, the ‘work’ is waiting, the need for commitment is real and the call to embark can no longer be ignored. Herschelle and I are convinced that, as we read this edition with open and receptive hearts, there will be something that speaks to our consciences and asks that we roll up our sleeves and join the fray.
the parts of me that are like my father. My occasional sarcasm. My candor. A
In this edition our primary focus is on the youth, our walk with God and a deep consciousness of the preservation of our planet Earth. The reflections of some confirmation candidates and the article directed at the youth on “How to make a difference…” revealed two things: honesty on the part of the candidates as they reflected on the challenges and joys of the journey thus far, as well as the seeds of some interesting future initiatives. It is my deep desire that the hidden gems of this article will be unpicked and revealed by our youth and their leaders. The church hall filled to the rafters with young and old, the sound of laughter and conversation, as well as mouth-watering aromas coming from different stalls, spoke volumes about the resounding social and financial success of our Food Fair. Allow me to reflect on a few of the varied occasions that this humble church hall has witnessed and pay tribute to the faithful band of men and women who make these occasions special: countless Sunday school lessons, Christmas concerts, Alpha and AWF meetings, memorial service and farewell teas and after church breakfasts. My felicitations to fathers and grandfathers: Thank you for the times you cared for us and held us. Thank you for the lessons learnt from your example. Thank you for your love and kindness but also for your guidance. Please spare a thought for fathers who are far away from their children, for children who have lost their fathers, who do not know their fathers, for fathers who sadly have lost their children or whose children do not visit – Please God will you comfort these fathers and their children today and every day. Last Sunday Reverend Arrison painted an illustration that found an echo in my 6
feminism that is grounded and pensive, but sharp. When I was very young my father worked freelance from home and took the lion’s share of watching me during the day. What I remember most about my father were the questions. “Why does your doll feel that way?” “Do you think that’s a good idea or a bad idea?” “What do you think? "My father taught me never to go without questioning. Perhaps at his own peril he raised a child who fully believed it was her right to know. Only now, as a young woman, do I see how powerful that is. Thinking critically is no easy task, especially for a little girl in a world where girls are told to smile more often than they are asked to think. The most specific memory I have is from when I was about eleven or twelve. There was this show on the WB called Unhappily Ever After. For those of you who never saw it, you weren’t missing much. It was a sitcom that featured a typically dysfunctional family, with an idiot son and a brilliant but highly sexualized daughter played by actress Nikki Cox. To highlight this fact, every time Cox’s character appeared onscreen for the first time in an episode, instead of having the routine canned applause track, they would play a canned track of catcalls, hoots, and hollers. For some reason, I became fixated on watching this show. And my father forbade it. “That sound effect they play, Jessye, those whistles—that’s insulting,” he told me. “I don’t like it. Not in my house. No.” As a sulky eleven-yearold I was annoyed. I just wanted to watch the stupid sitcom and not have to really think about it. But now I couldn’t. And now I get it. It was my father who questioned why all the Disney movies featured mothers that were either dead or evil. My father was the one who pointed out that “Santeria” by Sublime featured lyrics about the revenge killing of a girlfriend. And it was my father that taught me never to accept condescension as inevitable or merited. Father-daughter relationships are often talked about in uncomfortably patriarchal terms. Father-daughter dances. The idea of being a “daddy’s girl” or having “daddy issues” calls to mind a kind of father-as-protector-and-owner mentality. While these attitudes by no means encompass the reality of father-daughter 43
Editors’ note: I found this article on the internet and we thought it might be good to share...thought provoking...
A Feminist Father’s Day - An article by Jessamyn Fitzpatrick thoughtcatalog.com/jessamyn-fitzpatrick/ When I travel these days, I find myself thinking a lot about my dad. This could be because he is a frequent flyer himself, I feel a kinship in the small victories and challenges of being on the road. The vegetative delight of hotel cable [satellite]. The sweet flavor of a complimentary cookie. The slow resentment of yet another fast-food dinner clinging to your stomach. But really, I am thinking of my dad because of the work that I do when I travel. My mother used to joke that I was such a feisty child she worried that I would grow up to be some sort of revolutionary. All through my adulthood, I felt twinges of guilt that I’m not. Not really. I don’t lead rallies or host sit-ins. I’m a far better cheerleader than organizer. I’ve read a lot of books but never written a manifesto. Truth be told I’ve never even been to a real protest. When I was in high school and the US declared war on Iraq, hundreds of students at my school staged a walkout. Afraid of getting a fail for the day, I stayed in class. In awe and inspiration I watch my friends in college organize, rally, speak into microphones, and create hand-outs and publications. I would never call myself an activist. The only public speaking I craved was on a stage, behind the veil of a role, or the written word. A few months ago I began working as a presenter for a sexual-assault-prevention program that tours around the country to military bases and college campuses talking about rape culture. This work is the closest I have ever come to feeling like an activist. And it has changed me immensely for the better. But it has also brought to light certain things about my upbringing that I may have taken for granted. To say my mother was instrumental in my feminist upbringing would be an understatement. When most people meet my mother, they tell me I am just like her. Same expansive expressions and hand gestures, same eager smile and rapid-fire
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heart: Which is more important, my love for God or love for my neighbour? Answered by rhetoric questions: Is it more important to breathe in or out? Is one more important than the other? Can you do one without the other? He also encouraged us to continue the love pilgrimage that we are walking with God, the Alpha and the Omega. Something that I am increasingly becoming aware of is how difficult it is to find a quiet place these days. Whether we are at home with the radio, television or cell phone that claims our attention, at our places of work or in malls, shops or restaurants, you will know what I am referring to. I’m sure I am not the only one who asks the waiter or a retail assistant to tone down the music so that I can hear myself thinking or have a conversation! And what about the environmental clatter that we have no control over, such as the chirping of phones, cars hooting, email reminders, music blaring and planes roaring overhead? Don’t forget about the inner racket that echoes in our heads and hearts – the most difficult places to find stillness. Take heart, all is not lost – the old adage of practice makes perfect still holds good. Ask God to give you a quiet heart: pray with the Psalmist: ‘I will listen to what the Lord God will say…’ Then sit quietly and listen what the still small voice of God says. And when God speaks, be quick to say, ‘Yes Lord, I have heard and I will follow.’ My prayer is that we will cultivate quiet places, quiet hearts and find fresh springs of blessing in the Lord’s presence. Speak, Lord, in the stillness While I wait on Thee; Hushed my heart to listen In expectancy Speak, Thy servant heareth Be not silent Lord; Waits my soul upon Thee For the quickening word Speak O blessed Master In this quiet hour; Let me see Thy face Lord, Feel Thy touch of power. Now that the days are becoming shorter and the nights grow longer, may the peace and presence of God be our Comfort and Shelter. May God in His mercy send us showers of rain and blessings. Love and Light Angie 7
St Margaret’s Parow, Proposed Diary 2017 Month
My very dear St Margaret’s family
Events/ Activities
Theme Youth
Let me introduce you to Alvin Ailey. A prodigious talent, dancer, choreographer, director, visionary, his dancing career, directing ability, talent spotting, coaching and ability to bring out the best in young African-American dancers is legendary. Today the Alvin Ailey Dance Company named in his honour (he died in 1989) is renowned across the globe but nowhere more loved that in his hometown of New York. If ever you're able to see a show at the theatre, grab it and enjoy the sublime experience. Today the Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation continues the work, furthering the pioneering vision of the amazing choreographer, dancer, and cultural leader, Alvin Ailey, using the beauty and humanity of the African-American heritage and other cultures to unite people of all races, ages and backgrounds. Alvin Ailey can teach us something about God too. Keep reading.
June
Baptism People’s Conversation: Parenting
July
7th – 9th Diocesan Youth Synod
August
Archdeaconry Retreat: Clergy People’s Conversation: Parenting Church Warden’s Quiet Day
Gender
I once chatted at some length with a former ballet dancer from Brazil about dancing. She taught me something amazing. She put it this way: First, when we are young, she said, we hear the music and it calls to us to dance – to shake and move and be enthralled by it... Then, as we get older, we become selfconscious and many stop dancing, saying we are too clumsy or too left-footed … But still the dance calls to us; so we tentatively but courageously try again, only to find an exhilarating joy at being able to move around the dance floor. How we enjoy dancing.
Sept
Eco – Festival 22nd Parish Dance (Goodwood Civic) 8-10th Sunday School Camp
Creation
October
15th Confirmation Stewardship Programme
Nov
Stewardship Programme Patronal & Dedication & Baptism New Members Luncheon
Patronal
Dec
Advent Sundays (4) Christmas Day
Advent / Christmas
Some people, my dancing friend continued, hear the dance calling them to be more than just dancers who enjoy dancing. These ones fall in love with dancing, allowing the dance to envelop them, to live inside them, to be completely at one with them until one day, they are no longer themselves, but they become the dance – they are the dance – fully and wonderfully being all that the dance is. It’s like they are not there, only the dance is there and it shines through them. Returning to Mr Ailey – many will agree with my friend, the dancer, who said that one of the amazing gifts Alvin had was to enable his students so to fall in love with dancing that at a point, they seemed to disappear – to become so absorbed in the dance, the music, the choreography that they became the dance – they were the dance. When the show was over, the audience was amazed to meet the actual dancers – because what they had witnessed on the stage, was a sheer mixture of magic, music and moves that told such a convincing story that no one was aware of the dancers dancing – just the dance itself. Taking her understanding of dancing to yet another level, my friend continued. Still, she said, there are some of these amazing dancers, who having become the dance, go on, beyond being the dance to yet another level. Some people, she said, become the very space in which the dance itself happens. They are not even the dance; they are below, above, beyond the dance. They are the space in which others can dance… And such a person was Alvin Ailey, who long after his death, has become a “space” in which others are still dancing today. He lives on, in his dance company, in his moves which are copied and followed today, in the students that come to learn, then become the dance – dancing in the spirit of Alvin Ailey. He has truly become the space, the floor on which the dance takes place. 8
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Health & Wellness
Stewardship
in green print that highlight the special relationship between God and nature. 3.
Connect with your denomination’s environmental advocacy office or grassroots organisation to amplify your voice and multiply your power to protect Creation for our children.
4.
Witness to your faith and make your voice heard by reminding our elected leaders that the despoiling of the ecosystems of this Earth is nothing less than the degradation of God’s Creation. Scripture witnesses to God as creator of the Earth and all that dwells therein (Psalm 24:1). Our leaders need to know that we, as Christians, believe all of Creation is worthy of protection, especially those areas
that are particularly sensitive and whose ecosystems are fragile. And especially when it comes to the health and well-being of our children.
Editors’ note Again, let us be conscious of the children with social conditions very different to many of us).
An extract from an article written by Kevin Winter, a lecturer in Environmental and Geographical Sciences at the University of Cape Town
All of this may sound rather esoteric – but if you have managed to follow the argument, I think my dancing friend and teacher has shared something very profound. Let me explain: Jesus of Nazareth, the face of God, the Holy One of God, who lived amongst the peoples of Galilee and Jerusalem some two thousand years ago and was born of Mary – was in a sense one of the great dancers ever… Of course, we’re talking metaphorically here about Jesus! Just like a great dancers who become so involved in the dance that they seem to disappear and ‘become the dance’ – so too, with Jesus. So involved was he in sharing the truth, the light, the way – that he became the Truth, the Light, the Way. So involved was he in feeding the poor that he became the very Bread of Life. So engaged in healing the sick – he became the very Healing itself. Even as he dies, so filled is he with the music of God, he becomes the Resurrection. Indeed, not only is he the Lord of the Dance, but the very Dance Itself! And then – to bring our metaphor dangerously close to breaking – just as young, talented and passionate dancers continue today dancing on the Alvin Ailey stage – so Jesus, having risen from the death and ascended into heaven becomes the “space’ or “stage” on which we are invited to dance! And at Pentecost, he sends the music – wonderful, tumbling, joyful, beating, pulsating, gentle, throbbing, sublime, inspirational, awe-inspiring, transcendental music in which we can forget ourselves and not only become great dancers like our Master – but that we too, can become the dance, pointing everyone to The Great Dancer in whom we dance, live and have our being… Alleluia! And here, to end… a beautiful little poem – from the 14th Century Iranian poet, Hafiz who magically wrote:
Climate change due to human-caused global warming Winter explained that rainfall to Cape Town’s catchment areas is coming later, dropping more erratically, and often missing the catchments altogether. “We have to acknowledge that carbon dioxide is finding its way into the atmosphere and has reached a new high,” he said. “This is a global system, so the bigger systems are beginning to impact us … there is no doubt that pressure and temperature are related. So, disturb the temperature, you disturb the pressure and you start to see different systems operating.” “Weather variability is suggesting two things to us. One is that the drought interval [the period between less than average rainfall years] is closing and that’s massively problematic if you can’t get a couple of good rainfall years to bring it back up,” Winter said. “[The other is that rainfall is] coming later. … We no longer get a sweep of cold fronts that are here for two or three days and drop the annual rainfall in nice, neat little batches. That’s no longer true.” What this means is that we shouldn’t see the current water crisis as a temporary phenomenon that will resolve in a year or two. It’s a long-term problem. We will need substantial (government) intervention to make Cape Town’s water supply sustainable.
Every Child Has known God, Not the God of names, Not the God of do’s and don’ts Not the God who demands we’re good, Or behave… But the God who only knows only four words And keeps repeating them, calling to us: “Come. Dance. With. Me.” God bless you this Pentecost – Come, let's dance with Him! Sincerely yours
info@groundup.org.za
Chris
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9
In conversation with Rev. Nino Rev. Nino shares his journey to the Priesthood… H:
When and how did you know you we called to the priesthood?
I was an 8year old boat boy, altar server at St. Georges Cathedral. Our very Rector Chris was celebrating the Eucharist at the time and as he broke the bread at that point something deeper was touched. I fell in love with what happened there…not in awe of Chris but with that moment when bread was broken. There has been this longing ever since, throughout my life. I can remember my cousin and I playing “church” and I always wanted to be the “priest” as matter of fact always played that role. In high school I used to carry a pocket Bible in my blazer teased by my friends and others…often hearing “look at the “Priest”…
Welcoming Children into God’s Creation: 4 Things You Can Do Now April 12, 2017 by Leah D. Schade [Leah D. Schade is the Assistant Professor of Preaching and Worship at Lexington Theological Seminary (Kentucky) and author of the book Creation-Crisis Preaching: Ecology, Theology, and the Pulpit (Chalice Press, 2015)]
The well-being of children and the well-being of God’s creation are fundamentally linked. Here are 4 things you can do to welcome children into God’s Creation. There’s a book I love called The Last Child in the Woods by child advocacy
expert Rich-
Then I finished school and did not bother to go to church, or worry about church for that matter. I became a seasonal attender and life took priority. During this time I of course met Gail and often came to worship with her here at St. Margaret. I struggled to fit coming from the Cathedral and High Church experience!
ard Louv. He writes about “nature deficit disorder,” where he
On the day of my wedding in 2006, Rev. Jerome Francis after my speech at the ceremony, told me that I should be a priest. Of course I laughed and could not connect to that possibility. A few weeks later he came to see me and asked that I consider the lay ministry. Again I did not respond but things started going wrong in my personal life. Many challenges emerged. Rev. Jerome of course continued to knock and approach me.
relationships with nature, but will result in generations of humans who have no interest
He left for a sabbatical and during that period of visiting priests, Rev. John Speelman asked me whether I have ever thought of becoming a priest. Some time passed when one day Rev. Leon van Rheede told me that I have a higher calling.
What does this have to do with the church?
That night I cried and asked God “What do You want from me? If this is what You want, then use me!” On 7 April 2009 I was licenced as lay minister. Thinks started to shift and change in my life and in 2010 the process started with the Fellowship of Vocation. I felt so fulfilled as a lay minister and realised that the secular world never gave me the same kind of fulfilment. I have the gift of discernment and the ability to feel what others are feeling. This has been 10
directly links the lack of
nature in the lives of today’s children to some of the most disturbing childhood trends, such as the rises in obesity, attention disorders, and
depression. We keep kids inside,
wired to their computers and televisions, which not only deprives children of important in protecting or caring for God’s creation. This is because “children will not save what they do not love,” he writes. And so he encourages giving children direct exposure to nature because it’s essential for healthy childhood development and for the physical and emotional health of children and adults.
If we do not speak up for God’s Creation and speak out for the needs of our children, then we will be shirking our responsibility both to protect God’s creation, and preserve the very land into which God wants to welcome them.
As a person committed to caring for children and God’s Creation, I invite you to put your faith into action by doing four things 1.
Take your children outside and help them fall in love with God’s Creation. Plant seeds and trees. Help them understand that they are connected with God’s Creation, and that God’s Creation is part of their family.
2.
Read Bible verses with them that help them frame Creation-care as a faith issue. Order the Green Bible and go on a Scripture scavenger hunt for the verses 39
On Eating and Drinking Kahlil Gibran Would that you could live on the fragrance of the earth, and like an air plant be sustained by the light. But since you must kill to eat, and rob the newly born of its mother's milk to quench your thirst, let it then be an act of worship. And let your board stand an altar on which the pure and the innocent of forest and plain are sacrificed for that which is purer and still more innocent in man. When you kill a beast say to him in your heart, "By the same power that slays you, I too am slain; and I too shall be consumed. For the law that delivered you into my hand shall deliver me into a mightier hand. Your blood and my blood is naught but the sap that feeds the tree of heaven." And when you crush an apple with your teeth, say to it in your heart, "Your seeds shall live in my body, And the buds of your tomorrow shall blossom in my heart, And your fragrance shall be my breath, And together we shall rejoice through all the seasons." And in the autumn, when you gather the grapes of your vineyards for the winepress, say in your heart, "I too am a vineyard, and my fruit shall be gathered for the winepress, And like new wine I shall be kept in eternal vessels." And in winter, when you draw the wine, let there be in your heart a song for each cup; And let there be in the song a remembrance for the autumn days, and for the vineyard, and for the winepress.
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confirmed by many spiritual directors / mentors. It is a gift that I thank God for and I know that I need to grow and nurture this gift in my ministry as a Priest. The challenges and doubts? Herschelle, there were so many! I was employed fulltime when I started the process. I started my theological studies, was newly married with a young family (Gaby was just born when I started FOV). I had to be involved in church ministry and activities and struggled to find the balance! In the end my family was neglected and was sacrificed including myself. The process continued as ordinand and even became more demanding – trainings, schools of prayer, commitments at parish level, demands from the Bishop and Dean of Studies, College of Ordinands etc. In this period and process I had many doubts and questioned God many time. The support and debriefings with other ordinands luckily helped so much. Family life suffered as they had to sacrifice my presence and time. Eli was born during my first year as Ordinand which increased the pressure and demands and of course the doubts! I lost friends, but made the most amazing new friends, actually family, in the process. On this journey. I questioned whether I was good enough? Prayed well enough? Would be a good enough priest? Whether I would be able to lead people? Give them the right advice? The list goes on… There was a defining moment…yes… When I was ordained as Deacon I had an out of body experience in the chapel. That together with the moment I lay prostrated was the defining moment, the moment of total surrender. Recently again when I was ordained a Priest and had to lay prostrated I could not hold back the tears. I was, actually I am so grateful to God…in that moment I fully realised that it was not about me but about God. In that moment I pledged before God to remain humble. What I know for sure? Well, I know I am a Christian, before I am a Priest, before I am an Anglican. I know who I am in Christ. I know God loves me unconditionally. I know God has bestowed so many blessings on me, on my family, so much Grace, so much Mercy.
My message to St. Margaret: Do not be afraid to explore Christ and be used as God’s instruments. 11
St. Margaret Parish Mission in a nutshell FOUR pictures / images guide our mission •
A Church without Walls
– welcoming & outward-looking
•
A Community Swimming Upstream
– fresh & relevant
•
A Community of Wounded Healers
– humble & prayerful
•
A Place of Community
– green and inclusive
Other upcoming events to diarise: Dorcas Day: September 2017
–
St Faith, Epping
th
High Tea (Theme: HATS & HEALS) –4 November 2017 – Recreational Hall, Parow North
We meet every 3rd Thursday at 19H00 in the hall. Please accept this as an invitation to join us in fellowship for devotions and sharing and a cup of tea. All welcome. AWF “United in Prayer, Service and Love” AGM 20th May at St Thomas in Malmesbury
EIGHT ministry areas - slightly revised from 2016 ... 1.
Pastoralia Ministry – parish life and daily ministry
2.
Liturgy & Worship Ministry
3.
Youth Ministry
4.
Social Development, Partnerships & the Environment Ministry
5.
Communications Ministry
6.
Fundraising Ministry
7.
The Building Team Ministry
8.
The Leadership, Finance, Admin and Management Ministry
PARISH COUNCIL meetings’ design The design of our Parish Council meetings’ is quite revolutionary as far as Parish Councils go. We use two kinds of Parish Council Meetings – alternating between formal Parish Council Meetings (with Financial and Ministry Team Reports and Policy issues) and the Parish Council Committee Meetings (with the emphasis on working groups and discussion and planning).
18 June 2017
What are our goals? There are many – but here is some: 12
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Parish Life—AWF
our expanding ministry
Our newly Parish leadership is: Carin September – Michelle Botha – Siyanda Mgudlwa – Ronel Petersen – Freda Plaatjies – Shiyelwa Ngcelwane – Bonita Morgan -
Chairperson Vice Chairperson Secretary Vice Secretary Counsellor Vice- Counsellor Treasurer
The Diocesan AGM (Saldanha Bay) of the Anglican Women’s Fellowship was held on 20th May 2017 at St Thomas in Malmesbury. This yearly event was well attended from all over and led by Reverend Craig Abrahams. This event also highlighted the plight of women and children as well as the recent brutal killings of our children. Special candles were lit – a big candle symbolising Christ and a small candle for each of the children killed in recent weeks. Each member had to bring 2x5litres of water which will be distributed to Elands Huis for disabled children and Siyabonga Care Village for the elderly and safe haven for women and children. The newly elected Diocesan leadership: Nerina Gouws – President Carin September – Vice-President (from St Margaret’s’ Parow) Martha Lombard – Vice-President ( Alternate) Marlene Lochner – Secretary Ursula Jacobs – Treasurer Chrizenia v/d Vent Amaryllis This year our Mary & Martha Day will be on Saturday 28th July in Springbok and like every other year each member must bring a ‘Love Box/Parcel”. This year it will be a Ration Pack for our firefighters and must consist of the following: 1xSustagen Tetra pack, 2x breakfast/cereal bars, 1x Crispbread & Dip, 1 packet (250gm) Dried fruit/Trail Mix, 2x Mars/Health bars, Gatorade/Game (powder added to water)
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To re-plan, re-plant and re-create a beautiful themed Parish Garden that serves our Vision & Mission
Greetings in the Precious name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ Our AGM was held on 18th May were new leadership was elected.
To renovate the Hall kitchen and plan new, green office spaces for
To enthusiastically work alongside and support the fantastic fundraising events and campaigns that will be run this year
To grow our Welcome and New Members Ministry
To manage, grow and develop our Pledge-giving and Stewardship
To continue to manage our parish financial affairs to God’s glory
To continue to produce inspirational and relevant liturgies that enhances our worship and witness
To empower our young people, the 20 to 30 year old age group members to enter into deeper fellowship and growth
To care for and reach out to more of our elderly parishioners
To run a new Christian Education Programme for parishioners and for lay-ministers
To care for our parishioners by offering compassionate counselling & spiritual support, mentoring and direction
To grow our gifts of welcome, outreach, advocacy and wholemaking in the wider community
To partner with and engage in courses co-presented by the Centre for Christian Spirituality
To develop and grow our capacity within the parish ‘wyke’ (wards) and to run programmes suitable for home-groups
To develop one new and significant MISSION project this year – that takes us as a parish out of our comfort zones and into the world of need to make real the love and blessings God has bestowed on us
Come…. join and participate on the exciting journey ... 13
THE CONTEMPLATIVE’S WAY -
Celebrating Youth Month
9 Week Interactive Course Presented by Centre for Christian Spirituality
Prayer for Teenagers in School (bearing in mind that we have very different experiences of schooling, education and social contexts)
The course is now entering its 6th week with 40 participants who are engaged, challenged, learning, growing! The final number greatly exceeded the intention of a smaller pilot programme. God spoke and God’s children responded… The following CREDO forms the framework / curriculum for the course:
Dear God, Thank you for the amazing world you have made. Help us to care for every aspect of your creation.
“Be still and remember From the SOURCE you come
Thank you for the wonder of physics, medicine and astronomy. Help us to engage with each facet of the universe.
And are NOBLY born But CHOOSE separation
Thank you for the pleasure of the creative arts. Help us to sing, paint, dance and act with excellence.
And so EXPERIENCE suffering Until you SURRENDER
Thank you for our incredible bodies. Help us to move, run, play and compete with passion.
And enter the FIELD of WHOLENESS In which you CO-CREATE love
Thank you for family, friendship, community and relationships. Help us to care, love, protect, support, encourage and forgive one another. Thank you for our school. Help us to embrace the world, our education and each other with enthusiasm. Amen. Read more: http://www.prayerscapes.com
What kind of disciples are we? 14
And walk THE CONTEMPLATIVE’S WAY SHARE this.” The course have two tasks: 1.
“To explore a simple contemporary Christian framework for daily living.
2.
To build a meditation practice specifically focused on Christian meditation.”
Each week participants receive informative and thought-provoking coursework material; meditation examples to practice during the week and a task list that is fun & stimulating, yet geared towards a deeper relationship with God, ourselves and others. LOOK OUT FOR THE NEXT COURSE INDEED A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE!
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YOUTH DAY - JUNE 16
Some thoughtful Reflections… St. Margaret Youth and Confirmation Candidates
Youth Day - 16 June - was previously known as Soweto Day. In 1975 protests started in African schools after a directive from the previous Bantu Education Department that Afrikaans had to be used on an equal basis with English as a language of instruction in secondary schools. The issue however, was not so much the Afrikaans as the whole system of Bantu education which was characterised by separate schools and universities, poor facilities, overcrowded classrooms and inadequately trained teachers. On the 16th June in 1976, more than 20 000 pupils from Soweto began a protest march. In the wake of clashes with the police, and the violence that ensued during the next few weeks, approximately seven hundred people, many of them youths, were killed. Youth Day commemorates these events. Despite many gains our education system continue to be in crisis!
YOUTH MONTH EVENTS If you are looking for a worthy cause to donate to during Youth month, Paint & Sip is a fun and unique way to uncork your creativity. An experienced local artist takes you step by step through the process of unleashing your inner Van Gogh to recreate a masterpiece. All proceeds go towards funding Call 2 Care's (NPO) Service Projects. For a small fee, you get a canvas, paint, brushes, a delicious meal and of course, a glass of wine to sip on (for those older than 18) while our featured artist takes you through recreating a featured painting. https://www.call2care.org.za/ and Paint & Sip on Facebook 34
We asked the young people / confirmation candidates to reflect on four questions. Thank you for you honest and thoughtful reflections.
How do you feel about your confirmation journey? Your views on environmental matters and why St Margaret should focus on it? Your views on Mission and Church without walls and the role of young people? Your thoughts as a young Christian youth today?
This is what they had to say: Chloe Alcock says:
An experience which has let me know for sure that I’m ready to confirm my faith in God. Strengthened my faith and brought me closer to God. I was able to meet new people and interact with those who share the same faith as I. Teaching me many important things that will assist me in being a Christian throughout my life.
The Western Cape has been declared a disaster area due to the drought as it has been the worst drought since 1904. We should all try to save as much water as possible, especially since the water restrictions will change to level 4. This means that we can only use water to drink, cook and wash essentials. If we don’t all work together this could affect our food levels. Mission is what we can do to help others. Church without walls means church without boundaries getting everyone involved, trying to reach everyone in the community with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
We are attempting to find some sense of identity. We are filled with vision of the future To do well in school. 15
67 Minutes
Logan Subramoney says: Confirmation was not difficult but it was also not easy, because I had to balance school work, confirmation tasks and exams. My journey in confirmation was actually very interesting, because I got to learn a lot about the different prayers. The reason why I enjoy confirmation is because I get taught a lot of new things and because my facilitators are very supportive. Being a server in the servers guild also teaches me things for confirmation. People started to make our environment look bad. St Margaret's can encourage the people in the church to do their part and help the environment. We can create a team that can tell people to help or we can put up posters. St Margaret's includes everyone and anyone into the church, because we are against race and sex discrimination. Being a young Christian is actually very exiting. Being part of the youth, confirmation and servers guild is the most exiting part, because I learn a lot of things and they make me feel like we are all family. They make me feel welcome.
Lisa Seldon says: Confirmation journey opens you up in ways that are unexpected. You learn so much about how to grow your spirituality and how to express it in your own way. It gives you a better understanding of why we do certain things within the Church and that understanding is what gives it meaning instead of just going through the motions. My views on environmental matters? The obvious answer is that we should be involved because it’s the right thing to do but also we were given everything we have so we should do what we can to help. Honestly I just think that there should be no big matters or small matters. The Church should help wherever it can. When people see the wonders and good that can be done through faith, that is when they want to come to Christ. Church without Walls and young people? Mission and church without walls are important because it is how we spread the word which is one of our jobs as 16
"Mr Mandela has spent 67 years making the world a better place. We're asking you for 67 minutes." Nelson Mandela's birthday is on 18 July, and the call is for people everywhere to celebrate his birthday by acting on the idea that each person has the power to change the world. The idea of Mandela Day was inspired by Nelson Mandela at his 90th birthday celebrations in London’s Hyde Park in 2008 when he said: "It is time for new hands to lift the burdens. It is in your hands now." The United Nations officially declared 18 July as Nelson Mandela International Day in November 2009, recognising Mandela’s "values and his dedication to the service of humanity" and acknowledging his contribution "to the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world". Website: www.mandeladay.com UN website: www.un.org/mandeladay Play Your Part is a social network that links individuals eager to make a difference with community organisations: www.playyourpart.co.za The celebration of Mandela Day aims to serve as a global call to action for people to "recognise their individual power to make an imprint and help change the world around them for the better", says the Nelson Mandela Foundation. "Nelson Mandela has been making an imprint on the world for 67 years, beginning in 1942 when he first started to campaign for the human rights of every South African. His life has been an inspiration to the world," the foundation said. By devoting 67 minutes of their time – one minute for every year of Mandela’s public service – people can make a small gesture of solidarity with humanity and a step towards a global movement for good. Take action, inspire change, make every day a Mandela Day – find out about volunteer opportunities or pledge some of your time: www.mandeladay.com Mandela said at the time of the campaign's launch that he would be "honoured if such a day can serve to bring together people around the world to fight poverty and promote peace. City Press editor Ferial Haffajee wrote in June 2013, "The excellent Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory has already made clear what the icon wants by way of legacy … he does not want a legacy cast in copper, concrete or marble, no monuments or highways, but a living legacy of volunteerism and service. "What better direction can we ask for as a nation? As we begin the long clamber up his shoulders to work out how we complete the long walk to freedom, Mandela has shown us how. It is ours to do, to serve, to give and to complete the work of freedom.” For more information, visit www.mandeladay.com 33
Christians. It is how we put into words the statement that we are an inclusive church that cares for all. The role of the young people is to take what they have learnt from church and find new fresh ways to implement these ministries and to carry out what has already been started in their own, unique way. As a young Christian today - There are so many misconceptions about Christianity floating around today. About it being rigid and unaccepting. That can all be changed through mission and ministry and through the youth. When we lead by example or do good in the community, that’s when people see the power of faith and the good that it can do. That’s when things change.
Chadley Francis says: I am really enjoying my confirmation journey at the moment. I enjoy going to confirmation class every Monday night because I am eager to learn more about God and what sacrifices God has made for us. I think that St. Margaret should donate clothes and give to the poor people food to eat. There is quite a few people in my environment that goes to sleep without any food. Donate clothes so that people can be warm at night. I think that every church’s youth are getting better by the day by hosting events and going on outings. It is also important that the youth learn from other people in the church so that they can follow in their footsteps and keep the generation moving on.
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Hadley Petersen says: I am really enjoying my confirmation journey. I’ve learnt a lot about things I never knew about before and things I was not sure about. I feel as if the environment is in trouble and we need to do something about that. We can plant more plants and use our filthy water we throw away to water the plants. Church without Walls should inspire us to spread the word of the Lord with people who are not very familiar with what the word of God is. Young people should help spread the word and inspire others and accept everyone differences.
Psalm 67:1-7 A prayer for the enlargement of Christ's kingdom. May your ways be known throughout the earth, your saving power among people everywhere.
WELCOME…..
A Christian youth I feel we should become more active with the community
Richard Turner and children Leigh, Reeco & Gaby
Willie Jacobs
Kayla Wentzel says:
Edgar Wallace
The confirmation journey is tough. Balancing school work, exams and confirmation tasks. There’s only 5 months and 9 days left until I’m officially confirmed. Being in church every Sunday is hard and tiring. The journey is not what I expected it to be. It’s difficult to stay true to all my beliefs when things get hard. Some people are supportive, but some people make it even harder to be on this journey.
Rodney & René May and daughter Sasha
Edgar & Colleen Robertson and children Kayla & Kaydan
Lisa Robertson
René Ravells and daughter Tamsin
People have started to neglect our environment. St. Margaret can encourage people to do their bit to help the environment. We can team up with an organisation.
Mark & Janette Palmer
St. Margaret’s include everyone in the church. They don’t exclude anyone never mind you race, sexuality. They accept everyone. 18
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A Prayer for peace by Maya Angelou Father, Mother, God, Thank you for your presence during the hard and mean days. For then we have you to lean upon. Thank you for your presence during the bright and sunny days, for then we can share that which we have with those who have less. And thank you for your presence during the Holy Days, for then we are able to celebrate you and our families and our friends. For those who have no voice, we ask you to speak. For those who feel unworthy, we ask you to pour your love out in waterfalls of tenderness. For those who live in pain, we ask you to bathe them in the river of your healing. For those who are lonely, we ask you to keep them company. For those who are depressed, we ask you to shower upon them the light of hope. Dear Creator, You, the borderless sea of substance, we ask you to give to all the world that which we need most—Peace.
Being a young Christian child is very exciting. Being part of the Severs Guild and being part of the youth and the confirmation is nice. It makes me feel welcome and a part of the parish family.
Tayla Wentzel says: Confirmation is a wonderful journey so far even though I don’t always want to go. I think spiritually I have developed through the confirmation classes. The environment in which we live in affects everyone and it is important that we exhibit a good environment whether it involves cleaning up or our behaviour and coming together as a community. Church without Walls is very crucial because we want children from a young age to feel welcome and accepted. Religion is very important because it has a big impact on your life and can determine a lot.
Blessing Jana says: I feel my confirmation journey will bring me closer to God and make me a better servant in the house of the Lord. I feel as a community of St. Margaret we should work to keep our community clean and pollution free. By doing so it will help us to save the planet and work together. I think as a Church without Walls we can improve our youth fellowship.
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Many communities around us have young
THEME: Armour of GOD
people who struggle with many problems
Where:
We are still exploring our options but hoping to connect with a parish that is less fortunate than ours!
When :
8 - 10 September
which lead them to drugs, suicide and theft. We should help young adults with their problems.
We would like to extend an invitation to St Andrews Eureka but cannot do this without the help of our Support Team. Let us know your thoughts and ideas.
I as a young Christian today believe that I am learning more and more each day. As a person I am surrounded by good and bad and it is my choice to choose what I want to follow. Without God I
“The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to
help others”. Albert Schweitzer
would not be able to make those choices. That is why I want to get to know God better through confirmation.
IDEAS
ADVANCE NOTICE Confirmation 2017 will be held on 15 October 2017.
Suggestions / Complaints/anything you would like see the Sunday School kids do or participate in, please feel free to let us know. ANY feedback is good feedback. This is how we build to become better.
COMMUNICATION IS KEY !!!
S DREN L I H C TY SAFE
A little humour
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CHILD PROGRESS
PLEASE LET US KNOW WHEN KIDS WALK TO SUNDAY SCHOOL OR ARE DROPPED OFF AND NEED TO BE COLLECTED. We are ALL responsible for the safety of our children. If we need to wait with them or assist with lifts, let us know. Some kids walk but with the parents/guardians, we need to monitor that they go straight home and not walk off route.
How is your child finding Sunday School? What is the feedback they are giving you? Perhaps they are new, perhaps there is something they struggle with or really enjoy? Perhaps there is a learning or social skill that we need to be aware of. PLEASE COMMUNICATE WITH US.
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Our Special Agents have been super busy this first half of 2017 investigating God’s word and looking for clues as to how we can better get involved in our St Margaret’s community.
OUR FOCUS: Spiritual Wellness - Serving GOD by Serving Others
We have joined Forces with the Servers Guild and the Soup Kitchen. Our agents and their sidekicks AKA Parents and Families have been kind enough to donate groceries to the cause and we request and encourage this to continue as the need is constant. We are proud to see our special agents in their white and red robes when on Altar Serving Duty, serving our people and most importantly, our Lord Jesus Christ. We have also joined forces with BASS (Bellville Archdeaconry Sunday Schools) 3 June for World Environment Day. St Margaret’s was part of the planning for this event. We sold food and funds raised are towards our parish.
THANK YOU to all for the Food Fair contributions and Support. You are amazing! Our Special Agents had a blast! We are growing our Force and welcomed four new Special Agents to our HQ.
OUR UPCOMING EVENTS: National Sunday School Day 27 August – event TBC If you feel called to serve as Sunday School facilitator please speak to Candice or any one of the current teachers / facilitators. 28
How to Make a Difference As a Christian Youth http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Difference-As-a-Christian-Youth
If you want to make a difference as a Christian youth, you should remember that it's not just about going to church or reading the Bible (although those things matter). You can make a difference by living a Christian life every single day. There are many ways you can give back and make a difference as a Christian youth.
Part 1 - Having the Right Attitude Be a good example for other youth. As a Christian youth, you should lead by example. That means following Christian teachings. Everything you do in your life should reflect the goodness of God.
Show positivity, smile, and do good works. Don’t talk behind other people’s backs. Be kind to all people, including those who aren’t popular. Love thy neighbour as thyself. Walk the walk, don’t just talk the talk.
Be a leader. Don’t participate or laugh at sinful stuff. Just walk away. But also try to get people to stop doing it. If you see bullying occurring, intervene. Be the one person at your school that doesn't tolerate cussing or gossip.
Don’t drink, smoke, party, cheat on tests, gossip or engage in other negative behaviours. Be someone who spends Friday night on their knees in prayer rather than at a party getting wasted.
Be patient and kind. If people can't tell you're a Christian by your actions and words, you're doing it wrong. You need to live every single day with the right attitude.
Love others and be willing to help them even at cost to yourself. This is a fundamental commandment that Jesus gave during his time on Earth. To love others as you love yourself is so important. Don’t let ego and status stop you from treating others as you would your own brothers and sisters.
Don't be close minded. Love all people of all religions, races, sexual orientations, beliefs. Don't swear or speak about inappropriate things. You can't make a positive difference if you are cursing or making dirty jokes. Be respectful, honourable, and pure.
Set an example of Christianity every day at work or school, or both. Be humble, kind, patient, and respectful when engaging with non-Christians.
Reach out to people who are shunned by others. Jesus showed love to people who were treated negatively CHILD by others or regarded lowly by society. Never give up on someone, and especially never give up on God, in the good times and the bad.
OGRESS PR You will encounter islands in school and other settings. This means there are people who only hang out with certain people because they don't know anyone else and
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won't make an effort to know anyone else. It is something everyone does. You need to step up and be a bridge, which means stepping out of your comfort zone.
You can sit with someone who sits alone at lunch and just be a friend. Or you could lend a listening ear to them. Building a personal relationship is a great first step to leading someone to Christ. A subtle but effective way to spread faith is to plant seeds and allow the Holy Spirit to take root within others. You have the relationships with the people around you already, and you can be the one who encourages them, offers prayers, and lives out the Bible so as to be an example of God's love and grace. Treat everyone as an equal. Whatever their status in life or profession, remember that all people are God's creation and deserve a chance to be understood.
On Children - Kahlil Gibran Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself. They come through you but not from you, And though they are with you yet they belong not to you. You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
Be able to take rejection or loss with grace. You should be happy to do the good deeds you do. However, it can be more challenging to show a positive attitude when you are rejected or otherwise face negativity in your life.
For they have their own thoughts.
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
When confronted about your beliefs, don't freak out. Remember that everyone has a different story as to how they became a Christian, whether it was a dramatic conversion or they just grew up in it, but no matter how you became a Christian, it's your first-hand account. Tell people why you believe what you believe even if they ridicule you for it.
Turn the other cheek. If someone is rude to you or cruel, show them forgiveness and love. Forgiveness is a Christian trait. We are all born sinners, and we all struggle and we all fall at times. Don’t let that discourage you. If someone’s hurt you, find a way to forgive.
When you fall, forgive yourself too, and pick yourself back up and try again. What matters to God is how many times you stand up. Strive to grow in a positive way. You are unique, you have your own gifts, talents, strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes. Grow the positive aspects of your personality.
Keep studying your faith. Continue to study and learn about your faith as you get older. Know that even adults still work on the tough questions.
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams. You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you. For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday. You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth. The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite, and He bends you with His might
Part 2 - Learning Your Faith
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
Come to youth group with a heart that wants to learn. People will notice a change in your group. Start answering questions and step out of your comfort zone. Once you step out of your comfort zone, others will start to step out of theirs.
that His arrows may go swift and far. Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness; For even as He loves the arrow that flies, so He loves also the bow that is stable.
Spouting verse is all well and good, but understanding the deeper meaning behind it all, how it fits into the entire narrative of the Bible, is more important. You can say "God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son..." (John 3:16), but until you can show that same love to others, it's difficult for others to see the positive change caused by your faith.
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BAY Jersey Drive The Bellville Archdeaconry Youth will be embarking on a Jersey Drive which will run from Sunday 30th
Read the Bible. You could try to read a scripture a day. God’s word is vital to a Christian life because it provides guidelines. You could also listen to podcasts or watch YouTube videos on your faith.
Ask questions. You won’t know everything. There are many Christians who have studied faith for their whole lives, but they still don’t know everything. Keep in mind that historical context, language, translation, context or meaning can matter when reading Christian teachings.
Seek out older religious teachers and show them great respect, such as a pastor or priest or a Sunday school teacher. Ask them to help you learn more about your faith. Make sure that you keep involved in a Bible study, preferably involving kids your age. This is much more effective in helping you learn and relate to the Bible than attending only traditional worship services.
nd
April until Sunday 2 July 2017 which will be social outreach for Mandela Day with the distribution of the nd
jersey’s on Saturday 22 July 2017. Our request as the Social Committee is for each parish within the Archdeaconry to participate in the project. We will be distributing the jerseys to two facilities i.e. children’s home, seniors home or a shelter. As the Archdeaconry consists of 11 parishes we will not be able to visit two facilities on the same day therefore we split the Archdeaconry into two areas which is as follows:
Pray as often as you can and go to church. You can simply start off by saying, “God, I do not know what to do, but I have this desire in my heart to make a difference.” God doesn’t care what you say to Him. He just loves to listen to you.
You could start a prayer journal so that you can remember what you prayed for and then see how God has answered your prayers. Don’t forget to pray for others too, not just for yourself.
You should attend church as much as you can and ask your parents if they can drive you. Try memorizing some important prayers and saying them before you go to bed and every meal. Just take time out of your day to relax and think about God, what are you thankful for and what you did wrong and could improve.
Ask God what to do through prayer. God knows all your abilities, strengths, and weaknesses and he knows what’s right for you to do to make a difference. Don't let your age or comfort zones get in the way of doing what God calls you to do.
St Andrews Northpine, St Mary’s Kraaifontein, St John’s Bellville South, Church of Transfiguration Bellville and All Saints Durbanville (BAY 1)
St Francis Ravensmead, St Joseph Bishop Lavis, St Nicholas Matroosfontein, St Andrews Eureka, St Faith’s Epping and St Margaret’s Parow (BAY 2)
Once jerseys has been collected in the respective parishes youth leaders must BAY 1
BAY 2
St Johns Bellville – drop off and sort
St Faith Epping – drop off and sort
Contact person : Llano Kleinsmidt
Contact person : Emile Davids
Contact number : 079 032 4332
Contact number : 073 698 9533
Part 3 - Giving Back to Others
ensure that it is dropped off at the following parishes on Saturday 15th July 2017
Lead a fundraiser to help someone in need. Maybe you start out by collecting spare change or donating your allowance. Find a worthy cause, and help collect donations for it. Or just give whatever money you have to a good cause.
from 09h00am until 13h00pm for sorting:
You could use an online donation site. You can also help by joining or helping a cause that revolves around helping people know about God and His Word; there are many organizations that cater to the needs of less fortunate people all across the world as well as teach them about Christ.
Perhaps you sell your old books. It’s not necessarily how much you donate that counts. It’s the fact you’re giving most or all of what you have that matters.
Blessings Nino
Join a youth group or mission. This is another way that you can give back: By getting involved with group activities associated with your church. Try to get involved in your local church's mission trips, whether they are around the world, national, or local. If your church 26
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does not have these types of trips, you could bring the idea to the congregation.
Try tithing (giving 10% of your money to your church), or donating some of the stuff you don't use anymore. Inviting your friends to church or youth group are great ideas too.
Don’t treat youth group like school, and don’t act like it bores you. Dedicate yourself to God, and show this by always staying happy and cheerful and giving what you can to the group. You could also start/join a Christian club at your school (if it's allowed)
Remember that a mission doesn't have to be across an ocean. You could go on a mission trip to a local college or high school and help out staff with some church friends and talk about Jesus to anyone willing to listen.
Be open about your faith and principles. At times, this might be very difficult. You might feel like the only Christian youth around who is open about faith. Stand your ground. Actively develop your relationship with Christ. Get out and interact with people and develop relationships.
Christian youth are ambassadors, not secret agents. In order to change people's hearts, you first need to interact with them. Be as outward as possible about your faith. You could wear shirts that spark conversations.
Stand up for and voice your moral beliefs. You can do this in a way that sounds positive, not negative. Be willing to stand up for what you believe in. Be a witness to what God has done for you as a Christian. A lot of young people have some, little, or absolutely no faith in God whatsoever. By being walking proof about what the word has to offer, you are making a difference somewhere.
Give back by volunteering your time. You could help the homeless, take care of an elderly or disabled person, or work at an animal shelter. Help at your church, school, and in your home too.
You can also give back in smaller ways by simply being a positive force in your environment. Help classmates with schoolwork out of class, for example. You can organize park clean-ups or volunteer for blood drives. Help your church. Basically just volunteer to help your church. It could be something as simple as holding the door for people visiting your church. You could offer to clean up after the services.
Share your faith if you think it will help others. This doesn’t mean that you try to push your beliefs on others. However, if someone asks you about what keeps you strong in all you do, gently tell them you believe in God, and you put all your worries/fears/pain onto God so that you can help others with theirs.
Also don't be afraid to share your testimony- talk to your youth minister/pastor about opportunities to share your story, and where you can help within the church. The important thing to remember is that simply letting people know you are a Christian can sometimes be enough as long as you are happy and friendly and don't force anything down anyone's throat. 24
It’s a good idea to let more people know that God has their back if you perceive that a person is struggling and receptive to the message. However, understand that being a Christian is not about showing up other religions. Christianity is a peaceful and loving religion. Learn to love the people around you for who they are and that you cannot change them by shoving a Bible down their throat. If you want to show how Christianity has made you a better person, be kind to those around you regardless of their beliefs.
Diocesan Youth Synod For the first time in the life of our Diocese we will be having a Diocesan Youth Synod. This is a very HISTRORICAL moment for our diocese, but most of all in the life of our young people. I think the important thing for people to note is that this is not a decision making body. It is an opportunity for our young people to come and voice their concerns, but also to challenge the church on certain issues. This is why we decided as the steering committee to give the theme “Your Voice Matters”. This is a very important moment for our young people. The young people have been overlooked for many years in the Church. So at this Synod the young people will be given the platform to voice their concerns. However it will also be an opportunity for our young people to discuss a document which is a “draft constitution” for young people’s ministries. So the Youth Synod will take place at ILHATI private bush camp in Atlantis, 7-9 July 2017. Our representatives are Kelly Fortuin and Ethan Cole. Please connect with them to take the your issues to the Synod. Please continue to prayer for the representatives for Synod, but most of all for our young people of this Diocese. Blessings Nino 25