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Since I last reported I’ve seen more signs of growth and indications of progress – let me share:
Newly Organised Church – Endeavour Hills
I was delighted to be involved in the organisation of the Endeavour Hills Samoan Seventh-day Adventist Church. Sabbath 21 July was truly a day of celebrating what God has done and is doing through His people – and almost 500 people came from all around Melbourne for the special day.
The Endeavour Hills Samoan church was first recognised by the conference in October 2015. In August 2016, the group was granted church company status. Under the leadership of Pr Kanela Alefaio, the group had grown to a regular attendance of 35, with ten people then ready for baptism. The newly formed church now has more than 60 members and has appreciated the contribution of Pr Tini Rimoni, the appointed pastor for the church.
Leaders consider that Bible based preaching and teaching, a clear mission focus and God’s blessing have been major factors in the growth of this church.
New Church Companies
The conference has granted company status for three more church plants/groups: Melton, South East SDA Church (Oromo) and Gateway Lighthouse.
This represents a significant effort on the part of leaders and members alike. It’s wonderful to see God’s hand at work.
Pavilions
If you’ve been past the Nunawading Estate recently, you will have seen a lot of activity. On Monday 30 July, a Sod Turning Event marked the start of pre-work on site. Demolition has begun – the old LE hall is gone, as is the old house and Charis House (storage). So the way is being prepared for building works to follow.
At the last meeting of the infrastructure committee, it was good to hear the positive comments about the project from those who are professionals in the field of property development.
Please pray that God will continue to bless and guide this project.
Excellent attendance to hear It Is Written Speaker, Pr John Bradshaw
In spite of miserable weather, 1500 turned out on a cold wet and windy winter’s morning to spend Sabbath together at the recent regional at Belgrave heights. I arrived early and wondered if I was going to be able to find a place to park, but with the help of wonderful parking attendants who braved the weather, it worked out well. And it was well worth the effort people made. There were so many comments of appreciation for the message Pr Bradshaw shared!
A week later, Gilson College hosted the regional for the western churches. A hall full of people really enjoyed the way Pr John Bradshaw opened God’s word and pointed our minds towards Jesus.
Pr Bradshaw is the main speaker for the evangelistic meetings scheduled for May 2019.
Please pray for the success of the meetings.
Why not plan now to attend and bring a friend.
Pr Graeme Christian
Conference President