Ryde Presbyterian Church

Although we still have a few weeks of our "Women" sermon series to go we are already thinking through and getting ready for the next one! Our next series, "Evangelism - Not!", will be looking at ways that we share God's love with others. Heaps of churches run evangelism workshops and have evangelism sermons, but the only way to share the love of God - is by sharing the love of God! This is not something that we can be 'taught' in a lecture or workshop. Rather, it has to do with our ability to connect with others (and encourage each other to do it), and our ability to love others, through the power of the Holy Spirit. We can learn from Jesus' example and the way that he related to people where they were at, demonstrated practical love to them and spoke the truth in love. I guess it is still evangelism...but it just seems so different to what is often communicated in evangelism seminars!

This week we will be looking at Ephesians 5, where Paul talks about the man being the head of the woman, and Christ being the head of the church. This can be a very confusing passage to look at, but the great truth it reminds us of is the unity that we have in Christ as we submit to one another, and as we share the love that comes from God with each other. As always, anyone is welcome to come along and check church out at RPC - so feel free to drop in!

Tomorrow is our next church lunch together, and we are having a Korean BBQ (yum...). The cost is $3 each, or $10 for families. Church lunches are held on the first Sunday of each month and are a great way for us to get to know each other as a church family. See you there!!

This morning I am looking forward to our first playgroup for the term. First Friends is a group of mums (and the occasional dad...like me) who meet in the hall next to the church from 10 till 12. I have the special task of making coffee (and the occasional tea) for the mums and dads while everyone has a chat and the kids play. Usually at about 11am there is morning tea, followed by a story time, craft and singing. It is informal, friendly and free! The group is made up of people from our church, from the local community, and some who travel (probably for my famous coffee!). It is always a great morning!

This Friday (!st of May) we will see our Kid's Clubs, Teens and Playgroup start back. We are looking forward to another term of fun and madness! All our programs are free and have the aim of building relationships. You certainly do not have to consider yourself to be a Christian to come along. Feel free to check them out!