Abundant Life Church Blayney

Abundant Life News 24.05.2010

2010-05-27T14:12:00.001+10:00

Here's what is on this week everyone!!

Abundant Life News 21.2.2010

2010-02-21T09:07:00.002+11:00

Here's what is coming up this week... make sure you get involved! Also, Life Groups are changing a little this year so make sure you are at church to listen to Ps. Graeme's sermon Sunday morning, get a copy of it on CD or ask someone about the amazing changes.

Have a great week!

Church News 14.2.2010

2010-02-13T20:30:00.004+11:00

Hey everyone! Here is what's happening these coming weeks. Make sure you get the details and be involved!

Welcome

2010-02-04T18:46:00.008+11:00

Abundant Life Church is a community church of believers in Jesus Christ. We are affiliated with the Australian Christian Churches.

We accept the Bible to the Word of God and believe it is the only authority for our faith and life. We are self-governing and determine our own policies and procedures, as our leadership, consisting of Elders and Pastors, is led by God. Our Elders provide our overall spiritual direction and vision. Our Pastor is responsible for carrying out the purposes of the church and implementing and leadership's vision through the development and oversight of Ministry Leaders.

The people who make up our ever-growing church family come from a variety of backgrounds. As we strive to develop people, our ultimate goal is to help them discover meaning and purpose in life. We want you to know that you have a purpose for being alive and we want to help you discover God’s amazing plan for your life – both here and now, and for eternity.

OUR MISSION

To reach out and serve this community of Blayney Shire with the love of Christ in our hearts, through our lifestyles and via communicating the Good News. Our aim is to show a ‘life more abundant’ by following in the way of God through fellowship, servanthood, faith, trust in God and by good works. 'The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." John 10:10

OUR VALUES

A commitment to a Spirit filled, Bible centered teaching.

A commitment to Relevance to our culture and generation.

A commitment to Love, Acceptance and Forgiveness to all.

A commitment to Excellence

A commitment to Encouragement and Relationship building.

Birthday Shout Out

2009-10-09T22:02:00.003+11:00

One of our awesome youth leaders, Glenda is a year older today! [37 right Glenda?] She does a great job keeping our ratbag kids busy and entertained, So if you see her, shout her a coffee..or a couch lol

Believe And Be Baptised

2009-09-20T17:07:00.003+10:00

Today we had an awesome fellowship BBQ @ the Summersons [They put on a great spread, every time!], followed by an equally awesome Baptism. Here are the scrap pages made of the events [Made by Moi] and if you'd like a copy, just click on the picture, save it to your computer and print it out :o)

Men's Breakfast @ Cowra

2009-09-09T08:51:00.003+10:00

Hi Guys,

As most of you would have received an email about the Men's Breakfast at Cowra. As Most of you know the Carter family come up here for church every Sunday, hence showing some brotherly love by going down there and saring breakfast with them at Mc Donald's. So we are meeting at 7:45am at the front of His Place Bookshop here in Blayney, and then heading of down there and meeting the Carter boys at Mc Donald's about 8:30am for a cheap breakfast and some good fellowship and fun.

Looking forward to seeing you all down there.

Trevor Hibbs

Twilight

2009-06-23T11:01:00.001+10:00

We had a movie night at the church so we could watch Twilight on the big [word] screen. It was a fun night :o)
In the future, whenever we have a church event, i'll scrap it and post it here. Anyone who would like the page for themselves can just click on the pic for a better view. Right click to save, and print out on an A3 sized paper. Or A4 if you don't mind it being smaller.

Church News 10-5-09

2009-05-08T14:45:00.001+10:00

Here is all that is happening this week.

Church News 29-3-09

2009-03-29T00:44:00.000+11:00

There is lots happening this week....

Church News 22-3-09

2009-03-20T20:31:00.001+11:00

News for the week

Church News 15-3-09

2009-03-14T22:38:00.001+11:00

Hi Church, enjoy....

Church News 8-3-09

2009-03-08T00:07:00.001+11:00

Church News for 8-3-09

Church News 1-3-09

2009-02-26T21:38:00.001+11:00

News for the week...

Church News 22-2-09

2009-02-26T12:08:00.002+11:00

Church news for the week ...

Church News 15-2-09

2009-02-14T23:51:00.001+11:00

Hi Church, Enjoy....

Church News 8-2-09

2009-02-13T01:09:00.002+11:00

Here's Church News

Church News 1-2-09

2009-01-31T22:17:00.002+11:00

So much is happening so stay tuned.

Church News 25-1-09

2009-01-24T21:51:00.001+11:00

The year is starting up again so stay tuned to keep up to date with all that is happening.

Church News 11-1-09

2009-01-11T00:30:00.002+11:00

Well its amazing... its 2009 now... the beginning of a great year... stay tuned.

Church News 14.12.08

2008-12-13T23:45:00.001+11:00

What's happening this week??

Church News 7.12.08

2008-12-07T08:30:00.003+11:00

All thats happening this week ...

Church News 30.11.08

2008-11-27T10:42:00.002+11:00

Christmas is fast approaching so stay tuned... lots happening

Church News 23.11.08

2008-11-22T22:37:00.002+11:00

Hi Church, here's an update of all that is happening...

Church News 16.11.08

2008-11-16T07:58:00.003+11:00

Wow there is lots happening this week, don't miss anything...

Church News 9.11.08

2008-11-09T00:27:00.000+11:00

So whats happening this week and beyond... watch and see...

Church News 2.11.08

2008-11-02T00:08:00.002+11:00

This weeks news is.... enjoy....

Church News 26-10-08

2008-10-30T20:28:00.001+11:00

This weeks church news is.....

Embarrassed Evangelist

2008-10-30T19:04:00.002+11:00

Here is a promo for Glenda Rouxel's wonderful new book!!!

Sunday

2008-08-19T08:50:00.002+10:00

Well I really enjoyed that. Last Sunday. The tremendous morning service, great fellowship over a shared lunch & then a fantastic night service.
Thanks to all of you who shared in the day especially those who helped with the lunch both serving & cleaning up.

I am interested to get some feedback from Sundays messages regarding "The Proverbs 31 wife & the Church". I know there was a lot of meat in there & a stack of scripture & things to process. I will do follow up sermons, picking out a verse or two & relate them back to the church from time to time. This will hopefully help.

I am committed to helping all of us who call Abundant Life Church home to shaping it into all God is calling it to be.

Our prayer meeting this morning was great. Quite cold at 7am but not to bad in His Place. It is good to pray for the church & God's will for Blayney. I am aware that we can't all get to prayer meetings but please try to pray for people when you are prompted, where ever you are.

Have the best week. Remember home groups & youth.

See you there or Sunday.

Love,

Pastor G

Greetings from the Pastor

2008-08-16T10:37:00.003+10:00

Hey guys,

Just though I would post this to thank you all for the way that you lift the name of Jesus high. It is so good to see ours, yours & His church in action each week.

People still are coming out to home groups despite the cold & wintry conditions. We had 12 people at our house on Thursday night. It looks like I'll have to go on ebay to look for more chairs. Our study on "Flowing in the Holy Spirit" is very interesting & challenging while at the same time comforting. It is always good to re-learn that God is the one in control not us. It can really take the pressure off. From what I hear the group meeting at Colin's is also going great. This is the first time we have set it so that we are studying different stuff. Find out what's going on in either group & get along.

I really want to encourage you, if your not going to a home group, give it some thought. There is something special about regularly being in a small group. If you find it difficult to get out but would like to maybe host a home group, come & talk to me & we will see what we can do.

Youth at the Shed is a real joy to me. While I don't get there often enough I certainly am aware of how much the kids are enjoying what Matt & Rach are doing with them at The Shed. The tales from the 'Point & Shoot' night (glad they changed the name from 'Drive by Shooting') went off so well. I even understand that Gabby got the chance to meet Sargent Barry Walker on the drive around Blayney. She got a little nervous I believe when he wanted a chat.

Remember night church starts this Sunday. I am looking forward to what God is going to do in these night services. I am preaching both morning & night & will be doing at least a 2 part sermon. Looking at my notes I could well be split over 3 or 4 services.

Thanks again guys for being apart of what God is doing here in Blayney. Remember that His vision for us is way bigger that you can imagine. We just need to be open & obedient to His prompting. I have no doubt that we will, together, impact this region for Him.

Be assured Jenny & I are praying for Gods best in your lives.

Love,

Pastor G

Bring and share lunch

2008-08-12T22:19:00.004+10:00

This Sunday, the 17th August, we are having a "Bring and Share Lunch" after our morning service. Its in honour of Don Humphris who is turning 50 on that very day. Don't tell him though, its a surprise. (Hope he doesn't read this... lol)

So come to church, enjoy great worship, preaching, and fellowship. And don't forget to bring something really yummy to share for lunch and lets bless Don for his birthday.

See you there.
Heather

Expressway to Hell or a Highway to Heaven

2008-07-23T20:04:00.001+10:00

The Expressway To Hell or the Highway to Heaven.

"Go in through the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the road is spacious that leads to destruction, and many people are entering by it. How narrow is the gate and how constricted is the road that leads to life, and few are the people who find it!"
(Matthew 7:13-14)

There are two routs to travelling from Hornsby on the upper North Shore of Sydney to Newcastle. One is the F3 Expressway and the other is the old Pacific Hwy.

Our journey in life keen take many directions either being married or not, different career courses etc. But there are only two ultimate destinations we all will end up in, and that is the choice of accepting Jesus invitation of Him becoming our Lord and Saviour or not.

So you can either take route that most people take and that is the expressway which looks easy, because you just turn onto it, set ones cruse control at the required speed and off you go without a care in the world, with only oneself to worry about and not single thought about the ultimate destination, HELL!

Where if you turn onto the old highway, which is narrow, winding with lots of witch-backs. Hence this road is far more demanding in which one has to work at driving instead of using the cruse control you have to change down gears, brake into corners and accelerate out of them, thus you have think and concentrate on what you are doing and making decisions the whole trip of what you are doing and where you are going.

Jesus never said life was meant to be easy, in fact He said this: I have told you this so that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have trouble, but be courageous-I have overcome the world!"
(John 16:33). I personal enjoy driving along the old highway, I find the rout challenging and exciting, as it is living a life in Christ that is an adventure, that is truly an abundant life, not dull and boring. Now I am rejoicing in my sufferings for you and completing in my flesh whatever remains of Christ's sufferings on behalf of his body, which is the church. I became its servant according to God's commission that was given to me for you, so that I might fulfill the ministry of the word of God. This secret was hidden throughout the ages and generations but has now been revealed to his saints, to whom God wanted to make known the glorious riches of this secret among the gentiles-which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
(Colossians 1:24-27)

So don’t follow the crowd or the world to hell, turn off the expressway and onto the highway to heaven.

Trevor Hibbs
Elder
Abundant Life Church Blayney

Abundant Life Worship

2008-07-13T21:17:00.002+10:00

Worship at Abundant Life Church continues to be a constant revelation of the purpose of God to His people. Afterall, we are created to be living sacrifices, which is our acceptable act of worship to Him. God has so deeply blessed this church with a dedicated and gifted worship team. We recently had 23 at worship practice - wow!!. It's really quite amazing to think that a church of our size has so many in one team. I believe that God is preparing our Church for the next level. So, please pray for me as the Worship Pastor as I seek to discover God's will and direction for creative arts and worship at Abundant Life. Whilst I often feel well out of my depth, I believe that this is where God wants us to be as He stretches and grows us. Of course His strength is made perfect in our weekness, and most definately I am needing to rely more and more in and on Him as we walk forward in His great plan.

God Bless, Ps. Col Crome

The Colour Of Sisterhood

2008-03-13T14:43:00.000+11:00

Last week a group of us girls from church went the Hillsong Colour Conference in Sydneys Acer Arena.

There were 17.000 women from 37 nations, and it was a very lively event with great speakers!
Here's our group [minus me taking the pic and Jenny S who is behind Glenda, and Ruthie who wasn't there yet.]

We all had a great time!

Some more than others.

Some...not so much lol

We all come away having learnt something valuable, and maybe we grew closer as sisters too :o)

Billycart Bash

2008-02-21T21:43:00.004+11:00

Ben Tatchell crossing the finish line at the Billy Cart bash. While he didn't win his race he had a fantastic time racing down the hill. He spent many hours building his billy cart under the expert instruction and guidence of Keith Bond. I think they had as much fun building it as racing it. Well done team.

Parties And Home Groups

2008-02-03T23:04:00.000+11:00

It's Kathryns birthday today. There was a nice little lunch happening down at the park. But i only got told last night, so that's why there's no earlier post.

Last night was Gabbys 21st birthday party as well. It was a dress up party, and gee some of the costumes were great!

Here's some of the costumes.

Photos courtesy of Glenda :o)

Here's Wilma Flintstone and Barny Rubble.

This is Jack Sparrow

Here are Princess Fiona and X-Men's Mystique [ ??? ]

The Mask

And of course, what's a dress up party without a bunch of princesses?!?
*

And don't forget, The home groups [ Cromes and Sommersons ]are starting back this week. Woohoooo!!

-:¦:-CF-:¦:-

2008-01-05T22:06:00.000+11:00

Sarah Jayne, Mark, and Morgan are leaving us for a year so Sarah Jayne can do a mid-wifery course.
Tomorow, after church we will be having a shared lunch, in order to say farewell.
So bring a plate to share :o)

We'll miss you guys :o)

-:¦:-CF-:¦:-

2econd Chance Coming Fast!

2007-11-19T14:46:00.000+11:00

Remember this post about the 2econd Chance youth conference? Well this is the last week to register. If you don't get your tickets this week, you can get them on the day, but they'll be $2 dearer. There'll be sooo much awesome stuff going on:

[An Excert from MySpace]

Pro skater sid tapia

Gosford christian skaters

skate park

big exo day debut band winners sevem mi lord...

purified and the testimony

radio rentals chics tent (massive tv!!!)

2econd chance band

massive tribal wars

international guest Simon Walters

jumping castle

horizontal bungee

gladiator duel

food

total fun

24TH NOVEMBER

BLAYNEY COMMUNITY CENTRE

colin@abundantlife.com

FOR MORE INFO

-:¦:-CF-:¦:-

Just Married!

2007-11-11T17:56:00.000+11:00

Yesterday Sarah Jayne And Mark Thomas [& Morgan] got married. In a little outdoor country ceremony at the Orange Vintage car club.

It was a lovely ceremony, and most of the people there knew each other.

The lucky couple

Here's Paster Graeme and Johnny.
Little circle of party animals.

Ruthie And Me

The kids had games to keep them entertained. Thanks Gabby :o)

And some brave people danced.

It was a really nice day

Congrats to Sarah, Mark & Morgan!

But we couldn't not add this photo of Sarah trying to get rid of one of the 3 flies she nearly swallowed! :o)

-:¦:-CF-:¦:-

-:¦:- Shine -:¦:-

2007-10-27T19:17:00.000+10:00

Today we had our Women's "Shine" conference, And we sure had a wonderful time!

It started with some of our worship team singing a song they'd adapted from the movie/play "Hairspray" called Good morning Blayney. They done an excellent job too!
Christy then sang a song that she'd written for the conference. She's defiantly got talent there, that girl!

Jenny lead us through each stage of the conference.

Our first guest speaker was long time Friend of Merrilyns, Beth Volkofsky. [She also spoke later in the day] and she had a marvelous message for us.

Then we had morning tea, some foot/hand massages and some time to mingle.

After that we had another guest speaker, Carol Godden. She bought us a lovely, animated message as well!

Then we had a great fashion parade. Our models wore Ideals clothing, sporting the new season collection And everyone really got into it!
:Undiscovered Supermodels:

There were two other lovely models, but the photos didn't turn out :o(

After all that fun, we had lunch.

[Sorry Heather. I tried to warn you lol]

And more foot/hand massaging

Then we were given a very moving talk on the Compassion children's ministry. Such a worthwhile cause!

After that we had afternoon tea, before having another talk from Beth Volkofsky, on self worth.

When the conference was over, 3 big bags of balloons were released from the ceiling, and the worship team sung Good Morning Blayney again...in the afternoon. [Good arvo Blayney?]

It was an awesome day, and I'm sure everyone was glad they came.

Thank you to all the wonderful people who made the day possible!

I can't wait for next years conference all ready :o)

But one last thing.

I said i was going to do this, so i have to stay true to my word.

Sorry Catherine [not really lol]

-:¦:-CF-:¦:-

God's Love, 2econdChances and other stuff

2007-10-24T13:14:00.000+10:00

I never cease to be amazed at the depth of God's love shown to us through His Son, Jesus Christ and by the companionship we enjoy as we walk with our Lord. It only takes a few moments of soul searching for any christian to realise that we are never deserving of His grace. All humanity can take comfort from the fact the God's love to us is a free gift and all that is needed is for us to step into it by receiving Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. God is truly the God of the 2econdChance.

As we experience His unconditional love, we are urged to 'pass it on'. It's easy to love the loveable (or at least those who seem loveable to us), however God wants us to love our enemies and everyone in between. If you are having difficulty loving these people, ask God to implant that love in to you.

So, 2econdChance, this is name of the youth band at Abundant Life Church and we chose the name as it signifies all that God has done for us. On November 24, 2007, ALC is hosting 2econdChance07 - our first major youth event. This will be an amazing day of incredible blessing for every young person who attends. Much is planned and the youth of this region will not want to miss out.

The registration cost is $22 on the day, or $20 prior to the event. For more info email colin@abundantlife.net.au

God Bless, Col

Lots Of Bits!

2007-10-23T23:27:00.000+10:00

This week we had a new worship leader, A new music instrument, and a new painting. Intrigued? read on....

*Sarah Jayne created a nice new painting on Sunday...

This is how she explained it, " On the way to church today, My son, Morgan [8yrs] asked me to paint his new Lego truck, that he and his daddy had made the night before.

It made me think about the gifts God has given us, his children.

This painting is a gift for Morgan. It represents the gifts God has given us. All the small blessings he gives every day.

My son is precious to me. I want to give him good things. I made him this painting of his Lego truck. It was an easy gift to give. God is the same to us, His children.

He wants to give us good gifts too."

*Very nice :o)

*We had a new worship leader this week - Don! That's him with the nice big pink arrow over his head...

He did really well, He was fun and animated. Generally, really fun to sing with!

We also had the pleasure of listening to Colin [B] playing the saxamaphone for the first time. Where were you hiding that talent Colin??

So there you go. That was our Sunday.

Don't forget to register for the "Shine" women's conference this coming Saturday [Register at the His Place bookshop]. It's something special that you REALLY don't want to miss out on, Ladies!!!

-:¦:-CF-:¦:-

Creating Worship

2007-10-18T19:10:00.000+10:00

Anyone who was in church this weekend gone, would have noticed Sarah Jayne painting on the stage, while worship was happening.

For anyone who wasn't there,[Why not? lol] This is what it looked like...

This is how Sarah Jayne explained the painting,

"This painting represents an individuals life. The black charcoal line is the journey they take, the colours represent the people they see/interact with along the way.Some we see more often, others are just happenstance, and we see them only once. We leave an imprint on all of them though, ie: a nice colour, or a not so nice colour. I see this picture as representing an individuals love and compassion towards others. Love and compassion rubs off onto the people we meet as we meander through life. We can make a difference in a positive way, or a negative way."

Sarah Jayne will be doing a new painting each Sunday morning during the service, for a few weeks to come.
It'll be interesting to see what the next one will be :o)

Coffee Shop Grand Opening

2007-10-12T22:16:00.000+10:00

Tonight at 7:30pm, we had the grand opening of the Abundant Life Church coffee shop. And it was a great success!

Everyone behind the counter done a wonderful job, making perfect coffees and hot chocolates.

There weren't enough tables to sit everyone. It was pretty much standing room only.

The kids had a good time too. There was lots of cake and slices to go with their hot coffees.

People came from everywhere. Both church goers and non church goers [for now] alike.
Here's Papa bear and Mother hen, Aka Paster Graeme & his lovely wife, Jenny :o)

The night went really well. And I'm sure it was the beginning of something special in our little town.

*
Here's a joke i couldn't resist adding....

Mini Olympics

2007-09-04T09:47:00.000+10:00

Last night [Sept 3rd] the church held a Fathers day Mini Olympics. Dads competing against dads. And kids competing against kids. Everyone had to come looking as sporty as possible, and there was a prize for the best dressed.

The events were; Paper plate discus, Straw javelin, Cotton ball shot put, Marble hand grab, and a sponge game where you had to ring out a sponge to get the most water out of it. I don't know what it was called, and i didn't think to ring someone before posting this, and I'm too lazy to go do it now :o)

Here's the dads and kids doing some warm up exercises. [How did Darth Vader get an invite to a church sports event? Oh well, welcome to church Darth!]

Here's the Paper plate discus event.

Here's the marble grab.

Here's the cotton ball shot put.

After the events, Dawn spoke about what the bible says about parent/children relationships, and everyone hugged their dads.
After a light supper [More like a sugar fix] there was the medal ceremony. Nearly everyone won a medal, and those that didn't got chocolate!

The best dressed prize of a family block of chocolate went to Mark and Morgan, who were dressed as Ninja Turtles. Great costumes guys!

Everyone had a lot of fun. Thanks to the people who organised it! :o)

Happy Fathers Day!

2007-09-02T18:40:00.000+10:00

Today a few families from church went on a Fathers day picnic lunch in between church services, and we had a great time!
Here's Paster Graeme kicking the soccar ball all over the bag of biscuits [Tisk tisk]
And here is us girls, sitting around talking about everything, but nothing in particular.

It was a nice afternoon :o)

Roll on the next one!

Have A Go

2007-08-28T15:03:00.000+10:00

We currently have approx 20 members on our worship team at church. It's a fun part of church to be part of, and we all have such a great time at rehersals!

If you think that you might have a calling in the worship area, Why not come and check it out one rehersal night? Just ask Colin Crome when the next one is.

Can you play an instrument? Have a song writing talent? Can hold a tune?

Why not come and have a go at this awesome ministry!

Trivial Pursuits

2007-08-28T11:44:00.000+10:00

Friday night, the 24th, there was a sports trivia night at the local bowling club. We weren't sure if it was a sports orientated trivia night, or just a trivia night run by a sports organisation.

Someone [Who was that!] put out a challange between the gals and guys of the church.

So we booked a table each, and us girls were REALLY hoping the questions weren't too sports orientated!

....We were out of luck!

We did ok on the non-sports questions. But every second trivia sheet was all sports.

So this is pretty much what we looked like during those questions.

You can do it Ruthie, we need you!

Then there was the guys table. Why do they look like they are sleeping, or close to it?

Coz they won! In fact they were about 15 correct questions in front of everyone else! See that guy in the red shirt? His name is Sam, and he's a sports wizz! Remember his face, because the next time you go to a trivia night, you need this guy!

Well done guys. You done awesomely! :o)

Church News 19.8.07

2007-08-20T21:30:00.000+10:00

New Church Decos

2007-08-19T18:55:00.000+10:00

The back wall of the church has been decorated [By someone who really wanted to do it for God - Me!]

The first painting is of a person in prayer/spending time with God, and the light is the presence of the spirit in response. The person is painted on MDF and seporated from the wall by 2-4 blocks of wood, giving a great lighting effect!
The second image kinda speaks for itself. Allthough the letters are pre-cut MDF as well, for that nice 3-D effect. And the grapes are made from jewels [because the fruits are God's gifts, so what better to use than precious jewels!]

Here's some of the fruit.

The third pic [My favourite!] is of a person worshiping God, and the light represents the closeness this brings us toward God.

This person is seporated from the wall with 2-4 blocks too

They all look pretty good, if i do say so myself. I gave it to God before starting the project. I listened to praise music while doing it, and kept lifting it up to God.
So if you like these pics, praise his awesomeness. If you don't like them, stand in his complaint line! lol

Church News 5.8.07

2007-08-04T21:44:00.000+10:00

Hey everyone...here is what is coming up this week. Oh, and it starts the same as last weeks so don't get confused lol. Make sure you get involved in something and have a great week!

Baptism

2007-08-03T10:03:00.000+10:00

Last Sunday morning my Communion Messege was on dying to ones self and living ones new life in Christ, in relation to Water Baptism that we held at Blayney Centre Point pool that afternoon, which was an great success.The Scripture Verse that the Lord gave me was, Galations 2:20, which says: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." Which means no longer selfish and self centred me, but the new me loving Christ and others, which inturern I love myself as Christ loves me.

Church News 29.7.07

2007-07-30T20:42:00.000+10:00

Check out Church News for what is on this week and an update on events that are coming up. We are hoping this is going to be a regular thing on the blog site.

Amazing Grace

2007-07-30T13:06:00.000+10:00

On Thursday night [26th], two cinemas were booked out for a Fusion fundraising event at the Orange Metro 5 cinemas. We pre-paid for tickets to see Amazing Grace [Ioan Gruffudd, Albert Finney, Youssou N'Dour, Romola Garai, Benedict Cumberbatch]

"Amazing Grace is based on the true story of William Wilberforce, a British statesman and reformer from the early part of the 19th century. This feature film chronicles his extraordinary contributions to the world, primarily his 20-year fight to abolish the British slave trade, which he won in 1807. Wilberforce was also instrumental in passing legislation to abolish slavery in the British colonies, a victory he won just three days before his death in 1833." - Cameo Cinemas

It was surprisingly brilliant with a nice blend of humour, romance, testosterone, sadness, and victory. The sets were awesome too!

As a church outing, it was great to go to the movies with our "extended families". We just might have to get a group outing organised to go and see Evan Almighty when it's released on Sept 20 :o)

'Abundance' - Youth Service

2007-07-16T19:05:00.000+10:00

More about the Youth Service. Yep, that's right - the youth organised the service and ran the whole thing. The only thing they needed was the authority to do it. That's the same for everyone in Abundant Life Church. The leadership of ALC are about authorising God centered service, no matter how old, young, experienced or inexperienced you are or are not. The thing that matters is that your activity is God centered and serves the vision of the church. Don't be suprised by the success of the Youth Service. 1 John 2:14-16 talks about how the veterans (that's us oldies) know Jesus, the One who started it all (The Message). But the NewComers - the next generation - will win a victory over the evil one. I'm certain that the 'newcomers' won a victory over the evil one that day, and will continue to do so as we 'the veterans' love the One who started it all, and give authority for the 'newcomers' to act in the power the God has given them.

Keep worshipping and loving the One who started it all - Jesus

God Bless, Ps Col Crome

Youth Encounter

2007-07-15T22:58:00.000+10:00

This morning at church, The youth took over the service! They planned everything how they'd like it, and it turned out great!
We had fellowship and a cuppa before the service. It was weird having a coffee before church, because as you're talking with people, mentaly you're usualy kinda getting ready to leave. It was nice to step out of the comfort zone.
I'm assuming the youth picked all the songs, and they were all awesome songs!

Parishioner participation was encouraged in the form of jumping around to the music. We should dance and praise the Lord! It's within us, crying to get out.If we feel passionate about something, It's got to come out somehow.Weather it be tapping our feet, or dancing in the isles, It's a great thing to encourage!

“Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp” (Psalm 149:3)

This is a great action shot! It looks like we are one people - One in the Lord. Where does one person start and another finish?
The LORD said, "Behold, they are one people, and they all have the same language. And this is what they began to do, and now nothing which they purpose to do will be impossible for them" (Genesis 11:6)

All music needs an honourable heartbeat [And nice socks!]

The messege was bought to us by two wonderful hearts [Sorry Kristy, the photo didn't turn out :o/]

They both had great things to say, and their words really spoke volume! They both did such a great job and we look forward to them speaking again in the future, both near and far!

After the messege there was more awesome music. And then the youth blew us away [Again!] by leading the prayer at the alter call.

Thanks guys, For doing such a great job! :o)

The First Of Many.

2007-07-13T22:43:00.000+10:00

The movie night was a great success! There was lots of yummy food and great company & I think everyone enjoyed the movie.
Thanks to the wonderful people that helped out with setting up and cleaning up. It was very much appreciated :o)

This will be the first of many movie nights hopefully!

Uuummm... One of these guys might have been in trouble if the other had turned around! lol

Christmas In July

2007-07-12T09:56:00.000+10:00

Tomorow night [Friday 13] we will be having a dinner & movie night. It is at the Blayney Presbyterian Church hall on Adelaide St. We are having it there, because it is warmer.

Please bring a plate to go towards our shared dinner that will start at 6pm. Then the movie will start at 7pm.

We are watching The Nativity Story. A beautiful story that "Humanises" Mary, Joseph & the people around them, And the journey they took together as a couple. Even though we know how this story ends, It's nice to be reminded that people in the bible were just that - People. People just like us with every day lives.

So come along and have some great fellowship!

There will be a donation entry, With all money going to the Watoto Children's Ministry in Uganda.

And children need to be supervised so everyone can enjoy the movie.

See you there!!

Abundance

2007-06-29T11:14:00.000+10:00

'Abundance' This is the name of the worship team at Abundant Life Church. I'm the Worship/Associate Pastor of Abundant Life Church, and among other things, I head up the worship and creative arts dept. of the church. I'm very excited about what God has achieved in the 'three plus' years the team has been operating. I was only reflecting just the other day about the numerical growth of the team. Twelve months ago we had 9 members. We now have 21 (wow). I'm encouraged about this, but more than that, I'm astounded at the spiritual growth of the team. We are seeing ever increasing passion, dedication and desire to see God honoured through praise and worship. I am seeing certain members of the team 'stepping up' and operating in newly discovered gifts of prayer, healing and worship. One focus we have is 'home grown' new songs. This area in particular has seen some really significant contributions. 'Because of You' - a powerful slow rock song written in minor chords (Summerson/Crome), 'Heal our Land' - an upbeat 'spoken/sung' style song about seeking revival (Tachell/Crome), 'More Beautiful' - an alternate modern teen culture worship song (J.Summerson/L.Crome) 'All I Can say' - an incredibly powerful 'deep heart' worship song (Laura Crome) just to mention some of the offerings. I am just so immensly aware of God's blessings as He calls His people to worship in 'Absolute Spirit and Profound Truth'. If you are interested in these songs, drop me a line, and we will see what we can do to share them with you. Thanks Pastor G. for inviting me to be an author on this blog, I can see I'm going to have some great fun here.

God Bless you worshipping people.

Col Crome
Ass.Pastor/Abundant Life Church

July

2007-06-29T10:05:00.000+10:00

Well, July is upon us. This Sunday is July 1st. New financial year. What does that mean for the church? Nothing really! God says in His word 'my blessing are new every morning'.

Is that how you see you life? Full of opportunity & blessing every new day! If not - might be worth a try.

Hillsong conference is on this coming week starting July 2nd. Looking forward to a great week of inspirational teaching & excellent fellowship.

What's coming up back here at home?

Youth are going to the movies tonight. Ladies are Bellydancing on Saturday night at the church. Should be fun. Life Girls is still on with the next meeting to be held after Hillsong. Stay tuned. Home groups are on hold while school holidays are on. Feel free to continue to fellowship with each other, but there is nothing formal organised.

Millthorpe will be on both Sunday the 8th & Sunday the 22nd. These services start at 3:30pm at the School of Arts Hall in Millthorpe. Invite someone along.

Blayney church is as normal each Sunday at 10am in the 'shed' next to the Video Parlour.

Be blessed.

Pastor G

June

2007-05-28T11:01:00.000+10:00

We made it through the 'big weekend'!!

Life Girls on Friday night was outstanding by all reports & 'Wildheart' mens conference on Saturday was fantastic.

The guys had a really good time of fellowship with some great talks from both Craig & Pastor Graeme. It was thrilling to see men from other churches sharing in this great event. It will be back next year bigger & better. The playstation on the big screen was a hit & the food was extraordinary. (thanks to all the ladies who helped in that area especially Dawn who was there to serve us & clean up after every break) The profit from the conference was donated to help Josh fund his trip to Rwanda to help in the Village of Hope program.

Karl Wallace from Shelly Beach CLC preached on Sunday morning. A great message on Forgiveness. The music was super with both Laura & Meg stepping up to lead new songs. It is really inspiring to see the younger ones in our fellowship leading the way.

We had our second Millthorpe service on Sunday afternoon. Jenny preached an inspiring message on the 'furnace', highlighting how our prayers fuel the furnace of heaven.

This week home groups are on as usual at Colin's on Tuesday @ 7pm & the Summo's also @ 7pm but on Thursday. Craft group is on at the Summo's on Wednesday @ 7pm.

Worship team practice is on at the church also on Wednesday night at 7:30pm.

Sunday service as usual on 3rd June @ 10AM. Pastor Graeme will be preaching.

Make sure you try & get to one of these mid week activities. If you can't get out, invite someone over. It's good to practice hospitality.

God Bless
Pastor Graeme

Glory to God

2007-05-14T13:22:00.000+10:00

Thanks to everyone who made the launch of our new Millthorpe Abundant Life Church such a great time. With our supporters from Bathurst CLC & ALC Blayney plus the few Millthorpians (???) who came along it was a very good start to this new outreach. Keep praying for the correct strategies & God's blessing on this work. This church will have services every other week, ie, fortnightly.

At Blayney ALC we had a fantastic Mothers Day service. Jenny preached a cracker of a message, a real challenge from God's word. Gifts were given & warmly received to & by the Mum's.

Home groups on as usual this week. Tuesday & Thursday @ the Crome's & Summo's respectively. Starting at 7pm. Also the Women of Worth study on Thursday at His Place.

Next weekend we just have our normal Sunday morning service at Blayney with no Millthorpe service. Bring a friend.

Our BIG WEEKEND is coming up. Friday night May 25th 'Life Girls', Saturday 26th 'Wildheart' Mens conference, Sunday morning Karl Wallace is speaking at Blayney & Sunday afternoon Graeme is speaking at Millthorpe.

What a intense weekend that will be. It's awesome to see what God is doing here in Blayney.

Have a fantastic week & remember to 'Practise Hospitality'

Pastor G

Big Week Ahead

2007-05-08T16:57:00.000+10:00

What a blast we had last weekend. A fantastic visit from a group of bikers from Macquarie Hills CLC on Sat & Sun & a great message for the church from Pastor Mark Zaia, Senior Pastor of Macquarie Hills.

A generous donation from our friends in Newcastle kicked off our 'Miracle Offering' & what a miracle it turned out to be. As a result of the generosity shown by you all we have now ordered a new Data Projector & screen for the Millthorpe church. Thanks heaps guys.

Speaking of Millthorpe, its all systems go for our inaugural service this Sunday 13th @ 3:30pm in the School of Arts. Please pray for a significant impact for God's kingdom as we launch Abundant Life Church Millthorpe.

The women in our church are having a 'Belly-Dancing' evening at the church. It is a donation entry, the proceeds of which will go to Watoto Children's Ministry.

There are no home cells this week due to work & ministry commitments. This makes a perfect opportunity to practise some hospitality.

Men, remember the up-coming 'Wildheart' men's conference on Sat 26th May at the church. Pastor Graeme Summerson & Craig Hingston will be speaking. Conference starts at 3pm & finishes around 10pm. It will be great & full of suprises.

Karl Wallace from Shelly Beach CLC will be sharing with us the next day (27th) at church.

Look forward to seeing you on Sunday in Blayney & or Millthorpe.

Remember fellas - it's Mothers Day this Sunday. Don't forget.

God Bless,

Pastor Graeme

"Wise men & women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights." Prov 18:15 Msg

Coming Up

2007-04-27T14:07:00.000+10:00

Well, we survive Abercrombie. It was a great couple of days away. The nights were warm & the kids had a great time in nature. It's good to get away from the phones, computers & tv for a while. Anzac Day was very pleasant with the Rouxel's & Hingston's joining us & the Tatchells for the day.
This weekend kicks off with Life Girls at the church this Friday night. Continuing the study on the Lords Prayer & the various rooms in Gods house.
Sunday morning we have Ps Andy Godden with us from Oberon. Come along & bring a friend, to church & hear a great word of encouragment & inspiration.
His Kids are back after a break with Gabby leading the kids into a great new term.

Home groups as usual at Crome's & Summo's-Tuesday & Thursday.

Remember next weekend 6th May we have Ps Mark Zaia from Macquarie Hills visiting with us. Again invite someone along for a great day.

Millthorpe church starts Sunday 13th 3:30pm @ the School of Arts.

C U on Sunday

Remember, Practice Hospitality

Anzac Day

2007-04-19T20:30:00.000+10:00

Guys, there will be some of us spending Tuesday night down at Abercrombie Caves (camping & cabining) so, lunch on Wednesday will be down there. All are welcome to come on down for the day or better still brave the weather & come down for the Tuesday night. Sing songs around a campfire, ah the memories. Contact Graeme for more info.

Also don't forget the progressive dinner. Invite a friend. It's not restricted to church members only. A great way to show people we are normal.

April Update

2007-04-16T08:57:00.000+10:00

Don't forget the progressive dinner this Saturday 21st April. Starting at the Crome's (3 Lane St) @ 5:30PM for entree's. Contact Merry for more infor or if you want to provide a meal.
Anzac Day, Wednesday 25th. Any takers on a fellowship lunch somewhere? Ideas please.
Remember Home Groups. Crome's on Tuesdays 7:30PM & the Summo's Thursdays 7:00PM (not on this week 19th).
Craft Goup is at the Summo's this Wednesday.
Anyone interested in helping out with our planned church plant please contact Pastor Graeme.
Pastor Andy & Carol Godden from Oberon will be visiting & sharing with us on Sunday 29th April. Invite a friend.
"Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." Heb 13:2
Now that would be cool.

C Ya

Coming Up 4 April

2007-03-27T16:26:00.000+10:00

Remember, Sam & Kylie Collins will be with us the first weekend of April. Sam will be preaching on Sunday 1st. Be there.

Simon & Michelle Potter will be visiting over Easter, be sure to catch up with them while there are here. They will be staying at the Summo's. Stay tuned for news of a Easter Friday service.

Remember prayer meetings on Tuesday @ 7am & home groups on Tuesdays & Thursdays @ the Crome's & the Summo's repectively.

Pray that Colin, Merry & the rest of the bus people have a great holiday.

We are having a progressive dinner on Saturday night 21st. Details to follow.

Anzac Day falls on wed 25th. Any ideas for something to do. Summo's might go to Abercrombie overnight Tues 24th if you want to join us.

& to finish off the month we have a real treat in Pastor Andy Godden from Oberon CLC sharing with us on Sunday 29th, don't miss it. Pastor Andy & his wife Carol are doing a great work in Oberon where Andy also works as a GP.

Let's all have a great month.

Set you hearts on 'Love, Acceptance & Forgiveness' & Remember

-- Practice Hospitality

Coming Up - March

2007-03-09T19:36:00.000+11:00

This Saturday 10th, Life Girls are having a brunch at the Old Mill Cafe in Millthorpe 10:30am. Contact Jenny for more details

Harvest Church in Orange are puuting on a youth day. 'Day in the Park' Anson St 4pm - 9pm. Skateboard demos, music with guest speaker Matt Tickner from Youth Alive. All welcome.

Church as normal @ 10am Sunday. Looking forward to a great day.
There will be a Elders meeting after church.

Colour starts on Thurs 15th till Sat 17th. Jen, Ruthie, Gabby & Annie will be heading down. Pray that the Summo's don't poison ourselves with Jen gone.

Don't forget the Hillsong album recording @ 5pm 18th Acer Arena. Tickets $5 through Hillsong.

There is a combined churches youth event (Harvest) on at Oberon CLC Fri 30th. Details to come.

Sam & KylieCollins will be spending the weekend with us 31st & 1st. Sam is a powerful & gifted preacher from Shelly Beach CLC (Vince's church) & will be sharing with us on the Sunday morning.

Contact Graeme or Colin regarding Home groups during March.

REMEMBER: Practice Hospitallity