April 2005
Highlights to end 2004 were very successful "Light Party", and Carols and Candles Service. Mid-February's church picnic great time for all ages, cricket, games, swimming, relaxing in the shade, conversation, and getting to know newcomers. All ministries well underway for 2005. Parenting Seminars with John and Naomi Cowan early March saw full house (350 parents) both nights. New group ("Start-Up") for intermediate age children has relieved pressure on older youth group. Church purchased hall next door will provide space for growing youth work.
May 2005
Easter celebrations began with Lord's supper evening on Thursday, then Good Friday combined service with Methodist, Salvation Army and Wesleyan churches, with fellowship time over hot cross buns. Saturday was the Great Easter Egg Hunt, where 175 children had great fun and heard the real Easter story. Celebration service on Sunday was climax of great weekend. Mark Jackson presented moving and graphic first-hand description one Sunday morning of mission opportunities in India. Marriage of Simon Bigwood and Libby Jensen, happy time for us all.
August 2005
"2 Ways to Live" - the 8 people who completed this course, which is held periodically, now understand their Christian faith better and are able to share the gospel dearly. Self Denial offering was once again wonderful effort in giving. Parenting Cafe - attended by 30+ parents. Good parenting advice and an opportunity to develop relationships over super desserts and good coffee. Book Club thriving. A year on, main focus has become Christian non-fiction. Readers, ranging in age from 16-60, have all read books they wouldn't have read otherwise.
November 2005
Successful music seminar for music team to learn new songs, also gave opportunity for others interested to attend, then perhaps join team. Appreciated Paul Windsor's "Windows and Mirrors" presentation one Saturday afternoon. Now watch videos and movies with new eyes. Fourteen fathers attended discussion group on "Fatherhood". Found two sessions enlightening and encouraging, and recommend study to all fathers. 'Kidzown' enjoyed taking part in Sunday morning family service, in evening families had fish and chip team, followed by board games. Church flower ladies took part in "Flowers in Praise" display, which is annually part of Hastings Blossom Festival.