Ministry 

Thanking God for Queen Elizabeth II

Like many around the world, we’ve been saddened by the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last week. Whatever feelings might be held about the monarchy more generally, the service shown by Her Majesty for the last 70 years is remarkable. 

Most people in Australia and beyond do not remember life without Elizabeth as our Queen. So much has changed throughout these 70 years - socially, technologically and culturally. For many, the late Queen stood as a symbol of stability throughout this – one thing that was unchanged amongst all of the change. It has been striking in the last few days how fast things have changed – ‘God save the Queen’ has become ‘God save the King’, public holidays have been declared and renamed, and Kate Middleton now is officially a Princess. While none of these changes may affect us personally, it is true that we often look to things which are unchanging for stability and comfort in the midst of change. Sadly, Her Majesty is no longer one of those things. Hearing mourners interviewed, it is notable that this is one thing which brings great sadness – she who is always been there, is there no longer. For Christians, though we undoubtedly share this sadness, we can cling to the assurance that God, who is eternally unchanging, is always with us. 

As it says in the Bible, “Every good action and every perfect gift is from God. These good gifts come down from the Creator of the sun, moon, and stars, who does not change like their shifting shadows” (James 1:17). Let us give thanks to our unchanging God, for the life and service of Queen Elizabeth II.

Chaplain Fiona 

Kids Connect

On Wednesday lunchtimes for the last few weeks, the Primary School foyer has been noisier than usual. We’ve started running a lunchtime program for upper Primary students called “Kids Connect”. 

This is a chance for students to have a more structured opportunity to build relationships, and work together on games and challenges. Pastor Eugene and I have been enjoying getting to know the kids better, and seeing their teamwork, perseverance and joy. We look forward to continuing this program in Term 4. 

Chaplain Fiona