Reflections
Reflection from the Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - 22 December 2024
Reflection from the Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - 22 December 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Joy to the world! The Lord is come;
Joy to the world! The Lord is come;
let Earth receive her king;
let Earth receive her king;
let every heart prepare him room,
let every heart prepare him room,
and heaven and nature sing, …
and heaven and nature sing, …
In the world around us it’s beginning to look (and sound and feel) a lot like Christmas. I love the
In the world around us it’s beginning to look (and sound and feel) a lot like Christmas. I love the
festiveness, the cheerfulness the positivity and the hope but I question if the ‘joy and the hope’ are
festiveness, the cheerfulness the positivity and the hope but I question if the ‘joy and the hope’ are
because the Lord is come or because we just want the ‘trimmings of Christmas’, to have a good time.
because the Lord is come or because we just want the ‘trimmings of Christmas’, to have a good time.
In 2001 I deployed as chaplain to Bougainville to support the multi-national Peace Monitoring Group
In 2001 I deployed as chaplain to Bougainville to support the multi-national Peace Monitoring Group
over Christmas. Baggage restrictions were pretty tight but I was able to bring a few small Christmas
over Christmas. Baggage restrictions were pretty tight but I was able to bring a few small Christmas
presents from my family. The hundred other members of the PMG seemed to have a similar smattering of small things awaiting opening on Christmas Day. We had to queue to use the phone home (no mobiles) but most of us managed a few minutes speaking with those whose love we were missing. The Army cooks did a great job but I think we were alcohol free.
presents from my family. The hundred other members of the PMG seemed to have a similar smattering of small things awaiting opening on Christmas Day. We had to queue to use the phone home (no mobiles) but most of us managed a few minutes speaking with those whose love we were missing. The Army cooks did a great job but I think we were alcohol free.
Many in the contingent struggled to see how this could possibly be Christmas but for some of us celebrating Christmas in the small palm leaf chapel with a couple of Army musicians playing and the contingent members from Vanuatu on guitar we were able to celebrate the love of the God we knew. Jesus was just as present, perhaps even more so, without the ‘trimmings of Christmas.’
Many in the contingent struggled to see how this could possibly be Christmas but for some of us celebrating Christmas in the small palm leaf chapel with a couple of Army musicians playing and the contingent members from Vanuatu on guitar we were able to celebrate the love of the God we knew. Jesus was just as present, perhaps even more so, without the ‘trimmings of Christmas.’
So this Christmas, as you enjoy the music, the party, the food and drinks; as you laugh with and hug those you love; as you feel and touch the earthly reminders of love, take some time to find the reason for the season – this is ‘Christ Mass’; it is a church service to remember Jesus’s birth.
So this Christmas, as you enjoy the music, the party, the food and drinks; as you laugh with and hug those you love; as you feel and touch the earthly reminders of love, take some time to find the reason for the season – this is ‘Christ Mass’; it is a church service to remember Jesus’s birth.
We are made to live forever with God in heaven but our sinfulness, our rebellion gets in the way.
We are made to live forever with God in heaven but our sinfulness, our rebellion gets in the way.
Into the darkness and pain and fear and empty hopes of this world, God came personally to be and to
Into the darkness and pain and fear and empty hopes of this world, God came personally to be and to
show us the way to eternal perfect life with the God who made us. To say that I’m not a great cook is an understatement. I’m one of those whose cooking people look at and say, “don’t worry we will cover it in sauce.” The ‘trimmings’ can be the sauce which hides the reality of our lives which God in his love came to fix. Are we trimming our Christmas to pretend
show us the way to eternal perfect life with the God who made us. To say that I’m not a great cook is an understatement. I’m one of those whose cooking people look at and say, “don’t worry we will cover it in sauce.” The ‘trimmings’ can be the sauce which hides the reality of our lives which God in his love came to fix. Are we trimming our Christmas to pretend
that our lives don’t need God? Sometimes it is when we don’t have the nice worldly things of Christmas, that we find God’s true love for us; find our reason for joy and hope.
that our lives don’t need God? Sometimes it is when we don’t have the nice worldly things of Christmas, that we find God’s true love for us; find our reason for joy and hope.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son [to save us]. This Christmas may you know
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son [to save us]. This Christmas may you know
personally and celebrate God’s love for you; may you know God’s true eternal hope.
personally and celebrate God’s love for you; may you know God’s true eternal hope.
Grace and peace and hope and life,
Grace and peace and hope and life,
Rob
Rob
Christmas 2024
Christmas 2024
Reflection from the Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Advent II
Reflection from the Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Advent II
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
As we continue in Advent with Christmas, the celebration of God coming personally into the world, fast approaching, there seems to be much to do before we get there.
As we continue in Advent with Christmas, the celebration of God coming personally into the world, fast approaching, there seems to be much to do before we get there.
Last Sunday’s readings were about the ‘end of the world’ or the end of our time in the world and Jesus warning us to be ready, ready for God to rescue, to save us, to bring us home when the end comes. This week of Advent certainly seems to be about the end of the year and all of the many, many things that need to be done or that are happening and for which we need to be ready before the end of the year comes.
Last Sunday’s readings were about the ‘end of the world’ or the end of our time in the world and Jesus warning us to be ready, ready for God to rescue, to save us, to bring us home when the end comes. This week of Advent certainly seems to be about the end of the year and all of the many, many things that need to be done or that are happening and for which we need to be ready before the end of the year comes.
Much at the end of a year is celebration; school concerts and swimming carnivals and dance and music recitals and the end of the school year and many celebrations or parties but each of these brings pressures. There are so many things to do before the end of the year including planning for next year.
Much at the end of a year is celebration; school concerts and swimming carnivals and dance and music recitals and the end of the school year and many celebrations or parties but each of these brings pressures. There are so many things to do before the end of the year including planning for next year.
From a parish perspective, with Parish Council we are putting together plans and a budget for next year to finalise at our PC Meeting on 15 December. Before that I have meetings with Bishop John Roundhill, with The Rev’d Rod Fisher from Brisbane West Uniting Church and with The Rev’d Deb Bird from Kenmore parish. I have some ideas, activities and possible visits to discuss with each of them. I’m also hoping to meet with Cr Greg Aderman to discuss possible grants to help maintain our building. As always, your prayers that we will in these meetings listen to God’s wishes would be appreciated.
From a parish perspective, with Parish Council we are putting together plans and a budget for next year to finalise at our PC Meeting on 15 December. Before that I have meetings with Bishop John Roundhill, with The Rev’d Rod Fisher from Brisbane West Uniting Church and with The Rev’d Deb Bird from Kenmore parish. I have some ideas, activities and possible visits to discuss with each of them. I’m also hoping to meet with Cr Greg Aderman to discuss possible grants to help maintain our building. As always, your prayers that we will in these meetings listen to God’s wishes would be appreciated.
From a personal perspective, I have a paper to finish writing before Christmas; I’m planning to be away on leave for the two Sundays after Christmas and I also officially will be discharged from the Army (after 51 years) in January – freedom.
From a personal perspective, I have a paper to finish writing before Christmas; I’m planning to be away on leave for the two Sundays after Christmas and I also officially will be discharged from the Army (after 51 years) in January – freedom.
Now, back to Christmas, the Nativity play for Christmas Eve is coming together well. We still have plenty of room for more young participants, so if you have friends or family that you would like to be involved please speak to me as soon as possible. We have things for those who just turn up on the night to do but I can write specific parts for people if we know in advance that they will be with us.
Now, back to Christmas, the Nativity play for Christmas Eve is coming together well. We still have plenty of room for more young participants, so if you have friends or family that you would like to be involved please speak to me as soon as possible. We have things for those who just turn up on the night to do but I can write specific parts for people if we know in advance that they will be with us.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
8 December 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Advent Sunday
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Advent Sunday
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
It’s certainly beginning to look and feel and sound a lot like Christmas and so, like the world around us, we should prepare. However, unlike the world around us, we are preparing for something very different.
It’s certainly beginning to look and feel and sound a lot like Christmas and so, like the world around us, we should prepare. However, unlike the world around us, we are preparing for something very different.
As the world prepares for summer and year end; for parties and presents and 2025; we are called to prepare differently. I’m told that 25 December was chosen as ‘Christ Mass’, as the celebration of the birth of the Christ, the Saviour, the Messiah, Jesus because most of the rest of the world was celebrating new life at this time. In the Northern Hemisphere this is the time when the light, the sun starts to reappear after the depths of winter darkness.
As the world prepares for summer and year end; for parties and presents and 2025; we are called to prepare differently. I’m told that 25 December was chosen as ‘Christ Mass’, as the celebration of the birth of the Christ, the Saviour, the Messiah, Jesus because most of the rest of the world was celebrating new life at this time. In the Northern Hemisphere this is the time when the light, the sun starts to reappear after the depths of winter darkness.
Here in the global south, it’s a time of bushfires and cyclonic storms and of course humidity. The month before is appropriately a time to prepare for storms (we’ve already had some good practice) and natural occurrences. It’s also a time to prepare for perhaps a holiday away or lots of visitors at home and for feasting and perhaps for presents. I need a pre-Christmas clean out to make room for the hoped for new things. And, a new year is coming.
Here in the global south, it’s a time of bushfires and cyclonic storms and of course humidity. The month before is appropriately a time to prepare for storms (we’ve already had some good practice) and natural occurrences. It’s also a time to prepare for perhaps a holiday away or lots of visitors at home and for feasting and perhaps for presents. I need a pre-Christmas clean out to make room for the hoped for new things. And, a new year is coming.
Before Christmas, our church calendar invites us to prepare ourselves for the coming into the world of our Saviour. The four Sundays of Advent have different themes and this first Sunday doesn’t feel Christmassy. This first Sunday reminds us of the need for Christmas. Two weeks ago, I preached about living on the Eve of Destruction and Jesus this morning Jesus continues this theme; the end, our end, is coming! In the same way that we need a storm, flood, fire, emergency plan, Jesus reminds us that we also need an end of life or end of the world emergency plan. God is about to send the rescue team – Jesus – do we know how to access his rescue?
Before Christmas, our church calendar invites us to prepare ourselves for the coming into the world of our Saviour. The four Sundays of Advent have different themes and this first Sunday doesn’t feel Christmassy. This first Sunday reminds us of the need for Christmas. Two weeks ago, I preached about living on the Eve of Destruction and Jesus this morning Jesus continues this theme; the end, our end, is coming! In the same way that we need a storm, flood, fire, emergency plan, Jesus reminds us that we also need an end of life or end of the world emergency plan. God is about to send the rescue team – Jesus – do we know how to access his rescue?
We sing, Joy to the world! The Lord is [coming] … let every heart prepare him room. Jesus in the Gospel this morning warns us against having hearts weighed down with ‘dissipation’ – I had to look up the meaning. This Advent let’s make sure that there is room in our lives, in our thoughts and in our hearts for Jesus. In our hearts and lives, is Jesus the light in this world’s darkness; the focus of our hope; the source of our joy, peace and love?
We sing, Joy to the world! The Lord is [coming] … let every heart prepare him room. Jesus in the Gospel this morning warns us against having hearts weighed down with ‘dissipation’ – I had to look up the meaning. This Advent let’s make sure that there is room in our lives, in our thoughts and in our hearts for Jesus. In our hearts and lives, is Jesus the light in this world’s darkness; the focus of our hope; the source of our joy, peace and love?
I look forward, through singing (carols on 9 December), through prayer and confession, through Bible reading and worship to preparing for Christmas, for the year ahead and for eternity.
I look forward, through singing (carols on 9 December), through prayer and confession, through Bible reading and worship to preparing for Christmas, for the year ahead and for eternity.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
1 December 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
This Sunday has traditionally been called Christ the King and I find it a confusing metaphor. We will hear that the Roman Governor Pontius Pilate, just before he condemned Jesus to death, declared Jesus to be a king; Jesus responded that his kingdom was not of this world.
This Sunday has traditionally been called Christ the King and I find it a confusing metaphor. We will hear that the Roman Governor Pontius Pilate, just before he condemned Jesus to death, declared Jesus to be a king; Jesus responded that his kingdom was not of this world.
This ‘kingship’ of Jesus might be one of those concepts that we won’t fully understand in this world but as St Paul declares, in heaven or when the world ends or when Jesus comes again to draw us to himself, when this happens we shall see Jesus face to face and we will fully understand this and all of the worldly metaphors about Jesus.
This ‘kingship’ of Jesus might be one of those concepts that we won’t fully understand in this world but as St Paul declares, in heaven or when the world ends or when Jesus comes again to draw us to himself, when this happens we shall see Jesus face to face and we will fully understand this and all of the worldly metaphors about Jesus.
Next Sunday we enter the season of Advent, the formal preparation for the coming of the Son of God into the world as a baby born at Christmas. Just before we get into Christmas preparation mode, as we bring our Christian year to an end; I encourage you to think about who Jesus is, for you, now.
Next Sunday we enter the season of Advent, the formal preparation for the coming of the Son of God into the world as a baby born at Christmas. Just before we get into Christmas preparation mode, as we bring our Christian year to an end; I encourage you to think about who Jesus is, for you, now.
In his lifetime on Earth, Jesus proclaimed himself to be many things including; the light of the world – a light which shines into the darkness and which no darkness has ever overcome; the living water – which springs up in a person to give eternal life; the bread of life – whoever comes to Jesus will not hunger and whoever believes in him will never be thirsty; the good shepherd – who lays down his life for the sheep; the resurrection and the life – those who believe in Jesus even though they will die yet will they have eternal life; and ‘the way [to heaven] and the truth and the life – no one comes to the Father [and to heaven] except through me’.
In his lifetime on Earth, Jesus proclaimed himself to be many things including; the light of the world – a light which shines into the darkness and which no darkness has ever overcome; the living water – which springs up in a person to give eternal life; the bread of life – whoever comes to Jesus will not hunger and whoever believes in him will never be thirsty; the good shepherd – who lays down his life for the sheep; the resurrection and the life – those who believe in Jesus even though they will die yet will they have eternal life; and ‘the way [to heaven] and the truth and the life – no one comes to the Father [and to heaven] except through me’.
With these and many other metaphors or images Jesus tried to tell us who he was in relationship to us. Of course, the fundamental image from beginning to end of the Bible is that Jesus is a saviour (or Messiah or Christ).
With these and many other metaphors or images Jesus tried to tell us who he was in relationship to us. Of course, the fundamental image from beginning to end of the Bible is that Jesus is a saviour (or Messiah or Christ).
Jesus is an undoubted actual figure of history; all the evidence is that he really did live about 2,000 years ago; but who is Jesus for you and for us and for the world now?
Jesus is an undoubted actual figure of history; all the evidence is that he really did live about 2,000 years ago; but who is Jesus for you and for us and for the world now?
I really loved the children’s activity in church last Sunday. On a piece of card they had a door which opened, ‘the door to heaven’ and when they opened the door they were able to draw or write what they thought was going to be in heaven. The children recognised that Jesus is the door to heaven, and they came up with some beautiful ideas of who and what is in heaven; what would you write or draw in your picture of heaven?
I really loved the children’s activity in church last Sunday. On a piece of card they had a door which opened, ‘the door to heaven’ and when they opened the door they were able to draw or write what they thought was going to be in heaven. The children recognised that Jesus is the door to heaven, and they came up with some beautiful ideas of who and what is in heaven; what would you write or draw in your picture of heaven?
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
24 November 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - 17 November 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - 17 November 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
The wonderful, beautiful, powerful, scary, damaging, lifegiving, spectacular storms that we have had this week seem pretty appropriate with all that is happening in the world around us at the moment.
The wonderful, beautiful, powerful, scary, damaging, lifegiving, spectacular storms that we have had this week seem pretty appropriate with all that is happening in the world around us at the moment.
Around us, we have school graduations and ‘formals’ and end of year functions at every level from kindy, school and work. The past that we have known is ending and the future, with its potential, hope and also uncertainty, is before us.
Around us, we have school graduations and ‘formals’ and end of year functions at every level from kindy, school and work. The past that we have known is ending and the future, with its potential, hope and also uncertainty, is before us.
Next Sunday ends our church year and on 1 December we begin Advent; Yes, Christmas is 5 weeks away! The world or the church or the parish or the school that we have known, and which may have brought us much comfort or stability is changing, but Advent celebrates God’s coming hope.
Next Sunday ends our church year and on 1 December we begin Advent; Yes, Christmas is 5 weeks away! The world or the church or the parish or the school that we have known, and which may have brought us much comfort or stability is changing, but Advent celebrates God’s coming hope.
Around the world and in our own state and in our God’s church, governments or leaders are
Around the world and in our own state and in our God’s church, governments or leaders are
changing. In the Church we find upheaval but last night the Rev’d Deb Bird was inducted as the new Priest-in-Charge of Kenmore-Brookfield Parish. Change offers hope but we can also fear change.
changing. In the Church we find upheaval but last night the Rev’d Deb Bird was inducted as the new Priest-in-Charge of Kenmore-Brookfield Parish. Change offers hope but we can also fear change.
It is too easy to, like the world around us, too easy to be fearful. If we are comfortable in our lives, or as we age and have less ability to deal with, to adapt to and to control our lives as things change we are tempted to fear. For Christians, this shouldn’t be the case, of course we feel the same things as the rest of the world but we need not fear.
It is too easy to, like the world around us, too easy to be fearful. If we are comfortable in our lives, or as we age and have less ability to deal with, to adapt to and to control our lives as things change we are tempted to fear. For Christians, this shouldn’t be the case, of course we feel the same things as the rest of the world but we need not fear.
• First, even if the whole world is changing, our God is unchanging. Psalm 90 is very helpful.
• First, even if the whole world is changing, our God is unchanging. Psalm 90 is very helpful.
“1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. 2 Before the mountains were
“1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. 2 Before the mountains were
brought forth or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. ... 4 For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past or like a watch in the night.”
brought forth or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. ... 4 For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past or like a watch in the night.”
Jesus, in the Gospel this week, warned us, that everything would pass away. The world and all that is in it will pass away; we will pass away; but no matter what might change around us God still is the same; God is still in control of all that happens.
Jesus, in the Gospel this week, warned us, that everything would pass away. The world and all that is in it will pass away; we will pass away; but no matter what might change around us God still is the same; God is still in control of all that happens.
• Second, God loves us. From beginning to end, the Bible is the story of God’s love for His
• Second, God loves us. From beginning to end, the Bible is the story of God’s love for His
creation and particularly for human beings and particularly for those who love God. John
creation and particularly for human beings and particularly for those who love God. John
3:16 reminds us that God loves us so much that Jesus came to save us from the coming
3:16 reminds us that God loves us so much that Jesus came to save us from the coming
destruction. St Paul in 1 Corinthians 13 teaches us that Love, God’s love, lasts or abides
destruction. St Paul in 1 Corinthians 13 teaches us that Love, God’s love, lasts or abides
forever. A few reminders from Psalms and from Prophets.
forever. A few reminders from Psalms and from Prophets.
Isaiah 41: 10 do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41: 10 do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.
Psalm 146:3 Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help.
Psalm 146:3 Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help.
Romans 8:38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
I’ve included additional notices this week including:
I’ve included additional notices this week including:
• A message from our Archbishop about the Archbishop of Canterbury’s resignation.
• A message from our Archbishop about the Archbishop of Canterbury’s resignation.
• A notice about Christmas giving
• A notice about Christmas giving
• Christmas Service times are included (and we would welcome more Nativity Play
• Christmas Service times are included (and we would welcome more Nativity Play
participants).
participants).
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
Rob
17 November 24
17 November 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
This Sunday and Monday which we call Defence Sunday and Remembrance Day make me very
This Sunday and Monday which we call Defence Sunday and Remembrance Day make me very
proud to be an Australian. You all know that I’m proud of the work that the men and women of the
proud to be an Australian. You all know that I’m proud of the work that the men and women of the
Australian Defence Force do; I remember this every day (for I’m still in the Australian Army) but
Australian Defence Force do; I remember this every day (for I’m still in the Australian Army) but
ANZAC Day is particularly our day for remembering those who serve in our name.
ANZAC Day is particularly our day for remembering those who serve in our name.
These young men and women serve to defend, our nation and their families and others who need
These young men and women serve to defend, our nation and their families and others who need
help. They serve to protect the people and things that they love. St John quotes Jesus when he
help. They serve to protect the people and things that they love. St John quotes Jesus when he
says, ‘greater love has no man than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ Jesus loves us
says, ‘greater love has no man than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ Jesus loves us
enough to die for us, even when we are undeserving and our ADF women and men are prepared to
enough to die for us, even when we are undeserving and our ADF women and men are prepared to
do so for their nation, for freedom, for their families and for their mates. They are far from perfect
do so for their nation, for freedom, for their families and for their mates. They are far from perfect
but I’m proud of their love and commitment.
but I’m proud of their love and commitment.
Remembrance Day, the 11th of November commemorates the Armistice that ended the fighting in
Remembrance Day, the 11th of November commemorates the Armistice that ended the fighting in
World War I. By the time the guns fell silent, over 60,000 Australians had been killed in the war.
World War I. By the time the guns fell silent, over 60,000 Australians had been killed in the war.
This was well over 1% of our population at the time, killed; many times this number were wounded
This was well over 1% of our population at the time, killed; many times this number were wounded
and suffered from these wounds the rest of their lives. More Australian soldiers were killed than
and suffered from these wounds the rest of their lives. More Australian soldiers were killed than
the number in our entire Army now. Historians suggest that almost no Australian family was
the number in our entire Army now. Historians suggest that almost no Australian family was
unaffected by these losses.
unaffected by these losses.
On 11 November 1918, the guns fell silent, the peace which had been longed for and prayed for
On 11 November 1918, the guns fell silent, the peace which had been longed for and prayed for
had commenced. Sadly, this wasn’t the last war but the peace was a time of great rejoicing. For
had commenced. Sadly, this wasn’t the last war but the peace was a time of great rejoicing. For
many however, the hard part was just starting. Coming home, coming back to the nation and
many however, the hard part was just starting. Coming home, coming back to the nation and
towns and homes and families that loved our service people dearly proved very difficult.
towns and homes and families that loved our service people dearly proved very difficult.
We might readily understand the difficulties of those significantly injured trying to return to farming
We might readily understand the difficulties of those significantly injured trying to return to farming
or building or labouring. In the days before modern machinery trying to do these things for those
or building or labouring. In the days before modern machinery trying to do these things for those
now blind, deaf or without functioning limbs is understandable but everyone brought home
now blind, deaf or without functioning limbs is understandable but everyone brought home
internal wounds, wounds of mind and spirit. They came home to a nation and to jobs and to
internal wounds, wounds of mind and spirit. They came home to a nation and to jobs and to
families that had also changed.
families that had also changed.
On top of the injuries, illnesses, nightmares and guilt, Australian servicemen and women felt that
On top of the injuries, illnesses, nightmares and guilt, Australian servicemen and women felt that
they no longer belonged and were no longer welcome. The suicide rate post-war was massive.
they no longer belonged and were no longer welcome. The suicide rate post-war was massive.
Our servicewomen and men still serve out of the best of motives, out of love. They still come home
Our servicewomen and men still serve out of the best of motives, out of love. They still come home
or leave ADF service with injuries but also wounded in mind and spirit. Too often, they still feel that
or leave ADF service with injuries but also wounded in mind and spirit. Too often, they still feel that
they don’t belong in within the nation they served, in our homes and towns and industries.
they don’t belong in within the nation they served, in our homes and towns and industries.
Jesus offers healing of spirit to such people; Jesus offers love and acceptance. This Defence Sunday,
Jesus offers healing of spirit to such people; Jesus offers love and acceptance. This Defence Sunday,
this Remembrance Day let us commit to sharing God’s love and healing with those who need it,
this Remembrance Day let us commit to sharing God’s love and healing with those who need it,
with those who have served out of love for us.
with those who have served out of love for us.
We at St Michael’s Moggill will remember them – lest we forget.
We at St Michael’s Moggill will remember them – lest we forget.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
10 November 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Sunday Pentecost XXIV– 3rd November 2024
Sunday Pentecost XXIV– 3rd November 2024
Dear Friends,
This is one of those tough times to be God’s people, God’s church. In the midst of life we are surrounded by death. With the tragedies around us both close to home and far away, I have again had people asking, ‘Why did your God let such bad things happen?’ It’s a good, a very good question when people are seeing images of the Middle East, images of a car running over a fence at a school in Hawthorne killing an 11 year old student.
The sadness of the reality of death and its impact on families is not lost on God. In John 10, we read that ‘Jesus wept’ when he encountered Mary and Martha grieving the death of their brother Lazarus. Jesus himself didn’t avoid death; Jesus rather points our God’s particular blessings and comfort for those who mourn.
I have, and we all should have, words of hope for those who are facing death and for those who mourn. There is a time for words but first, we should do as Jesus did, first we should allow the emotion of our human condition to be real. I try to offer understanding, empathy and love before words of comfort. We, like every human being, we will all die, only the time and method are unknown.
We need to have words to justify our position and our Christian hope of resurrection to eternal life with God in heaven, but more than that, our lives need to show those around us that we believe our words, that we believe Jesus’s words, believe God’s promises.
Jesus showed that death is the natural process at the end of our earthly lives. Jesus could have extended his life on earth, his followers offered to fight for him, and of course he could have summoned the powers of heaven. Instead, Jesus accepted death, a very painful, ignominious death, a crucifixion. Jesus died and then God raised him to life and then he ascended into heaven. Jesus through death shows us God’s plan; he has led the way for us to follow.
Does the world around us, do our families and friends see us accepting death or fighting against it? If people see us personally fighting too hard against death they can question our faith in God and in his eternal life.
For me the two sadnesses of death are the impact on those left behind and the great sadness of those who choose not to follow Jesus. I believe that heaven is real and so is hell. God invites all into his kingdom but only those who don’t reject God’s invitation will have God’s eternal life. This motivates me to live my life showing confidence in God’s eternal life. Living a good life is nice but living as a child of God, living as a confident inheritor of eternal life is a more important witness.
This Sunday, we remember All Saints and All Souls. We are right to mourn; it’s OK to be sad, to weep. It’s vital in our sadness to know and to show God’s comfort; important to know and to show that we are firm in our faith and our hope and God’s love.
I look forward to this opportunity in our church to remember, to cherish, to grieve and to celebrate the love of those whose love and lives we have shared and to be thankful for God’s eternal love.
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
3 November 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Sunday Pentecost XXIII– 27 October 2024
Sunday Pentecost XXIII– 27 October 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I’m a great fan of the ‘democracy sausage’; somehow it symbolises a typical Australian approach to life. Our democracy and the process involved are hard won freedoms and rights that many in our world envy and wish they had. Our process is fair and open; certainly there are limits that our party system and finances bring, but it is an open and transparent process. It is serious but the good old sausage sizzle helps us as Australians celebrate our freedom and keep things real. (I do remember one election day in Canberra cooking sausages for hours at a school fundraiser; I think it took about a week for me to lose the smell of sausages.)
I’m a great fan of the ‘democracy sausage’; somehow it symbolises a typical Australian approach to life. Our democracy and the process involved are hard won freedoms and rights that many in our world envy and wish they had. Our process is fair and open; certainly there are limits that our party system and finances bring, but it is an open and transparent process. It is serious but the good old sausage sizzle helps us as Australians celebrate our freedom and keep things real. (I do remember one election day in Canberra cooking sausages for hours at a school fundraiser; I think it took about a week for me to lose the smell of sausages.)
Our parish is much more than just Sunday morning services. The men’s and ladies’ breakfast gatherings are an opportunity for us to share fellowship. Such connection opportunities have been shown to promote overall wellbeing and to prolong mental health as we age. They also provide time be less formal and more real than Sundays.
Our parish is much more than just Sunday morning services. The men’s and ladies’ breakfast gatherings are an opportunity for us to share fellowship. Such connection opportunities have been shown to promote overall wellbeing and to prolong mental health as we age. They also provide time be less formal and more real than Sundays.
There are other even less formal gatherings; please join us or just invite others for a ‘cuppa’.
There are other even less formal gatherings; please join us or just invite others for a ‘cuppa’.
Next Sunday 3 November we will celebrate and commemorate All Saints and All Souls. Within the service there will be an opportunity for each of us to light a candle of memory a physical symbol od remembrance of those we love who have died. As I wrote last week:
Next Sunday 3 November we will celebrate and commemorate All Saints and All Souls. Within the service there will be an opportunity for each of us to light a candle of memory a physical symbol od remembrance of those we love who have died. As I wrote last week:
God does not want us to ignore or not think about the reality of death. Death is the natural conclusion to our earthly lives. Jesus who told his disciples that he is the way to heaven also told them that he was going to be killed. By dying and then rising from the dead and ascending into heaven, Jesus shows us and leads us into heaven. As Christians, our hope is not to not die, our hope is that when we die, we too, like Jesus will be resurrected in heaven. Those in the world around us who do not have this hope of eternal life after death in heaven, those without this hope in Jesus are justly obsessed with not dying – we are not to be worried about dying.
God does not want us to ignore or not think about the reality of death. Death is the natural conclusion to our earthly lives. Jesus who told his disciples that he is the way to heaven also told them that he was going to be killed. By dying and then rising from the dead and ascending into heaven, Jesus shows us and leads us into heaven. As Christians, our hope is not to not die, our hope is that when we die, we too, like Jesus will be resurrected in heaven. Those in the world around us who do not have this hope of eternal life after death in heaven, those without this hope in Jesus are justly obsessed with not dying – we are not to be worried about dying.
When those we love, those who have loved us, die, we are rightly saddened. It hurts! We are right to mourn and to grieve. St Paul reminds us that the love that they have given us and that we have given them is eternal. We will celebrate this gift of love, this gift that remains with us and remember that such love is the essence of the nature of God.
When those we love, those who have loved us, die, we are rightly saddened. It hurts! We are right to mourn and to grieve. St Paul reminds us that the love that they have given us and that we have given them is eternal. We will celebrate this gift of love, this gift that remains with us and remember that such love is the essence of the nature of God.
I look forward to this opportunity in our church to remember, to cherish, to grieve and to celebrate God’s love.
I look forward to this opportunity in our church to remember, to cherish, to grieve and to celebrate God’s love.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
27 October 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Sunday Pentecost XXII– 20 October 2024
Sunday Pentecost XXII– 20 October 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
My great thanks to those who were able to help at our working bee yesterday; many hands each doing what we are able has made a wonderful difference and breakfast was amazing. It’s also a nice opportunity for us to fellowship. I heard laughter at times and I am envious of some of the power toys that some brought to play with.
My great thanks to those who were able to help at our working bee yesterday; many hands each doing what we are able has made a wonderful difference and breakfast was amazing. It’s also a nice opportunity for us to fellowship. I heard laughter at times and I am envious of some of the power toys that some brought to play with.
Such things are getting harder for all of us. Age, injury, absence and the busy-ness of our lives is a growing reality as is the increasing amount of work that our beautiful but ageing buildings need. We are blest with a huge block of land and a historic church; I love them both but in our planning for next year we will need to think of how we will maintain them going forward.
Such things are getting harder for all of us. Age, injury, absence and the busy-ness of our lives is a growing reality as is the increasing amount of work that our beautiful but ageing buildings need. We are blest with a huge block of land and a historic church; I love them both but in our planning for next year we will need to think of how we will maintain them going forward.
We have a busy month ahead within our church. On Sunday 3 November we will celebrate and commemorate All Saints and All Souls. As part of this there will be an opportunity for each of us to light a candle of memory to remember those we love who have died.
We have a busy month ahead within our church. On Sunday 3 November we will celebrate and commemorate All Saints and All Souls. As part of this there will be an opportunity for each of us to light a candle of memory to remember those we love who have died.
God does not want us to ignore or not think about the reality of death. Death is the natural conclusion to our earthly lives. Jesus who told his disciples that he is the way to heaven also told them that he was going to be killed. By dying and then rising from the dead and ascending into heaven, Jesus shows us and leads us into heaven. As Christians, our hope is not to not die, our hope is that when we die, we too, like Jesus will be resurrected in heaven. Those in the world around us who do not have this hope of eternal life after death in heaven, those without this hope in Jesus are justly obsessed with not dying – we are not to be worried about dying.
God does not want us to ignore or not think about the reality of death. Death is the natural conclusion to our earthly lives. Jesus who told his disciples that he is the way to heaven also told them that he was going to be killed. By dying and then rising from the dead and ascending into heaven, Jesus shows us and leads us into heaven. As Christians, our hope is not to not die, our hope is that when we die, we too, like Jesus will be resurrected in heaven. Those in the world around us who do not have this hope of eternal life after death in heaven, those without this hope in Jesus are justly obsessed with not dying – we are not to be worried about dying.
When those we love, those who have loved us, die, we are rightly saddened. It hurts! We are right to mourn and to grieve. St Paul reminds us that the love that they have given us and that we have given them is eternal. We will celebrate this gift of love, this gift that remains with us and remember that such love is the essence of the nature of God.
When those we love, those who have loved us, die, we are rightly saddened. It hurts! We are right to mourn and to grieve. St Paul reminds us that the love that they have given us and that we have given them is eternal. We will celebrate this gift of love, this gift that remains with us and remember that such love is the essence of the nature of God.
I look forward to this opportunity in our church to remember, to cherish, to grieve and to celebrate God’s love.
I look forward to this opportunity in our church to remember, to cherish, to grieve and to celebrate God’s love.
On Sunday 10 November we will commemorate Remembrance or Defence Sunday. Another day of very mixed emotions. For me, ANZAC Day is the day to remember the wars fought in our name and those who served on our behalf. Remembrance Day which commemorates the end of war is our day to focus on bringing those who have served back home, home to our community. The recent Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide indicates we as a community and as a church have work to do.
On Sunday 10 November we will commemorate Remembrance or Defence Sunday. Another day of very mixed emotions. For me, ANZAC Day is the day to remember the wars fought in our name and those who served on our behalf. Remembrance Day which commemorates the end of war is our day to focus on bringing those who have served back home, home to our community. The recent Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide indicates we as a community and as a church have work to do.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
20 October 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XXI Sunday 13 October 2024
Pentecost XXI Sunday 13 October 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
This week, I have been challenged in many and different ways to think about the issues that Jesus is addressing in the Gospel.
This week, I have been challenged in many and different ways to think about the issues that Jesus is addressing in the Gospel.
A hurricane in the US and evacuation of Australians from Lebanon and people facing the end of life and the end of careers have brought me back to this encounter between Jesus and the rich young
A hurricane in the US and evacuation of Australians from Lebanon and people facing the end of life and the end of careers have brought me back to this encounter between Jesus and the rich young
man.
man.
In Florida, Gaza, Lebanon and of course many other places we see people who have lost their homes. In the tragedy we see so many different reactions!
In Florida, Gaza, Lebanon and of course many other places we see people who have lost their homes. In the tragedy we see so many different reactions!
It is perhaps easy for us here in safe Australia to question why those in Lebanon, for example don’t instantly leave and ‘come home’. This logic, which I understand, avoids all of the reasons why these Australians are in Lebanon. For many this is where their families and friends and careers and houses and possessions are. Leaving all these and fleeing with just what you and your children can fit into a suitcase and then coming to Australia, where you are safe from a war, but may have nothing else, can be unbelievably hard. I strongly applaud our government and the ADF and DFAT and our welfare agencies for their work, but I really empathise with these refugees.
It is perhaps easy for us here in safe Australia to question why those in Lebanon, for example don’t instantly leave and ‘come home’. This logic, which I understand, avoids all of the reasons why these Australians are in Lebanon. For many this is where their families and friends and careers and houses and possessions are. Leaving all these and fleeing with just what you and your children can fit into a suitcase and then coming to Australia, where you are safe from a war, but may have nothing else, can be unbelievably hard. I strongly applaud our government and the ADF and DFAT and our welfare agencies for their work, but I really empathise with these refugees.
Jesus this morning is dealing with similar issues. What is stopping people from accepting God’s invitation to ‘come home’ to heaven? Last week one of my grand daughters performed with the Australian Girls Choir and sang, ‘I still call Australia Home’. It brought tears to my eyes as I remembered many tough times overseas where I was comforted and sustained by knowledge that Australia was my home. Jesus’s challenge to us is
Jesus this morning is dealing with similar issues. What is stopping people from accepting God’s invitation to ‘come home’ to heaven? Last week one of my grand daughters performed with the Australian Girls Choir and sang, ‘I still call Australia Home’. It brought tears to my eyes as I remembered many tough times overseas where I was comforted and sustained by knowledge that Australia was my home. Jesus’s challenge to us is
do we ‘still call God’s heaven home.’
do we ‘still call God’s heaven home.’
Increasingly, those around us will not learn of God’s invitation to heaven in church, well not first in church. Those around us will only hear of their place in God’s heaven from us. Our response to Jesus call for us to follow him will show those around us what we love and where we see home.
Increasingly, those around us will not learn of God’s invitation to heaven in church, well not first in church. Those around us will only hear of their place in God’s heaven from us. Our response to Jesus call for us to follow him will show those around us what we love and where we see home.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
13 October 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XX Sunday 6 October 2024
Pentecost XX Sunday 6 October 2024
Sunday Pentecost XX – 6 October 2024
Sunday Pentecost XX – 6 October 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
This week, I have had more conversations about the world around us than I usually do. I absolutely understand the intellectual, emotional and spiritual turmoil that world events are causing.
This week, I have had more conversations about the world around us than I usually do. I absolutely understand the intellectual, emotional and spiritual turmoil that world events are causing.
We are half a world away from the war and violence in the Middle East and in Africa but the threats and confrontation between disagreeing countries and even tribes and groups that is occurring in the South China Sea and in the Western Pacific and in Papua New Guinea is much closer.
We are half a world away from the war and violence in the Middle East and in Africa but the threats and confrontation between disagreeing countries and even tribes and groups that is occurring in the South China Sea and in the Western Pacific and in Papua New Guinea is much closer.
In our own country, state and city we can see deliberate violence, destruction, assault and fear.
In our own country, state and city we can see deliberate violence, destruction, assault and fear.
We also hear of hurricanes, typhoons and other natural disasters. In each of these events near or far, it is people who suffer.
We also hear of hurricanes, typhoons and other natural disasters. In each of these events near or far, it is people who suffer.
I am encouraged that so many have asked me, ‘where God is in all of this?’ and, ‘for what we should be praying?’
I am encouraged that so many have asked me, ‘where God is in all of this?’ and, ‘for what we should be praying?’
The wisdom of the world around us is proclaiming that either, ‘there is no God,’ or that, ‘God should be fixing all of this.’ ‘Why, O Christian, does your God not stop all of the violence?’
The wisdom of the world around us is proclaiming that either, ‘there is no God,’ or that, ‘God should be fixing all of this.’ ‘Why, O Christian, does your God not stop all of the violence?’
God has told us that this world and all that is in it, all the objects and people that God has created; God has told us that all this is temporary and will pass away. Jesus told his disciples that in the time before the end of the world, there would be wars and disasters and that even the temple would be destroyed. We are to expect these things and not to be distracted or discouraged when they happen. Eternity existed forever before the Earth was created and will exist forever after it ends.
God has told us that this world and all that is in it, all the objects and people that God has created; God has told us that all this is temporary and will pass away. Jesus told his disciples that in the time before the end of the world, there would be wars and disasters and that even the temple would be destroyed. We are to expect these things and not to be distracted or discouraged when they happen. Eternity existed forever before the Earth was created and will exist forever after it ends.
God’s light shines in the darkness – often we can’t see God’s light in the light – no darkness in this world has ever overcome God’s light. Jesus came into this world to save us in and from this world. Jesus came to show, all who will listen to him, the way to heaven, the way home.
God’s light shines in the darkness – often we can’t see God’s light in the light – no darkness in this world has ever overcome God’s light. Jesus came into this world to save us in and from this world. Jesus came to show, all who will listen to him, the way to heaven, the way home.
Our task in this world’s darkness is to know God’s life and light and hope, which is God’s love and even to know God’s glimpses of joy; our task is to know Jesus the light of the world and to grow in faith and hope in God’s love for us. Then, assured of our own relationships with God, to pass this love, God’s love and hope and life to those around us.
Our task in this world’s darkness is to know God’s life and light and hope, which is God’s love and even to know God’s glimpses of joy; our task is to know Jesus the light of the world and to grow in faith and hope in God’s love for us. Then, assured of our own relationships with God, to pass this love, God’s love and hope and life to those around us.
In these new troubled times, the world around us needs the hope of eternal life and perfect love that God offers and they need to see it lived in our lives.
In these new troubled times, the world around us needs the hope of eternal life and perfect love that God offers and they need to see it lived in our lives.
I’ve been to war; I know how sad it is, but I also know the great riches of faith that we can find in war’s darkness. In war, I have found the peace of God which passes all understanding. Our task, is to shine God’s light, love, peace, joy and hope into a world that needs to know God.
I’ve been to war; I know how sad it is, but I also know the great riches of faith that we can find in war’s darkness. In war, I have found the peace of God which passes all understanding. Our task, is to shine God’s light, love, peace, joy and hope into a world that needs to know God.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
6 October 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XI9 Sunday 29 September 2024
Pentecost XI9 Sunday 29 September 2024
St Michael and All Angels Sunday
St Michael and All Angels Sunday
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the Feast of St Michael and All Angels, our ‘Patronal Festival’. This is our opportunity each year, to celebrate, but also to think about ‘who we are’ individually and collectively and we should do this within the context or against the measure of who God has called us to be.
Welcome to the Feast of St Michael and All Angels, our ‘Patronal Festival’. This is our opportunity each year, to celebrate, but also to think about ‘who we are’ individually and collectively and we should do this within the context or against the measure of who God has called us to be.
It is both appropriate and important to celebrate much; we celebrate God’s love for us; we celebrate our existence as a church remembering those who worked so hard to establish our church; and we celebrate who we are now. I’m not looking for a celebration with any particular cake or streamers, no fireworks, no dinner or party, not selling T-shirts or coffee cups. I’d rather see what St Paul describes as the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives. As we celebrate, can those around us (within the church and without) see God’s light and life in us; in our lives, can they see God’s love, joy, peace, goodness, faithfulness and hope?
It is both appropriate and important to celebrate much; we celebrate God’s love for us; we celebrate our existence as a church remembering those who worked so hard to establish our church; and we celebrate who we are now. I’m not looking for a celebration with any particular cake or streamers, no fireworks, no dinner or party, not selling T-shirts or coffee cups. I’d rather see what St Paul describes as the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives. As we celebrate, can those around us (within the church and without) see God’s light and life in us; in our lives, can they see God’s love, joy, peace, goodness, faithfulness and hope?
Michael and angels are hard to have as patrons; hard to follow and with obscure Biblical references. They do, however, give us good reason to look at the work of angels in God’s work. Over the next few weeks, we will use God’s messages to people and to churches, through angels, as a basis for thinking about and measuring, who we are and who God has called us to be.
Michael and angels are hard to have as patrons; hard to follow and with obscure Biblical references. They do, however, give us good reason to look at the work of angels in God’s work. Over the next few weeks, we will use God’s messages to people and to churches, through angels, as a basis for thinking about and measuring, who we are and who God has called us to be.
I was asked this week for some points for our Area Dean to pass to our bishop and archbishop in a meeting. I don’t know if I will get feedback, but it was a helpful prompt to think about who we are and what our top three points to the bishop might be. I have also valued the points which have been raised within our Wednesday Bible Discussion.
I was asked this week for some points for our Area Dean to pass to our bishop and archbishop in a meeting. I don’t know if I will get feedback, but it was a helpful prompt to think about who we are and what our top three points to the bishop might be. I have also valued the points which have been raised within our Wednesday Bible Discussion.
At Christmas, the angel announced to the shepherds that he was bringing [from God] ‘good news of great joy for all people.’
At Christmas, the angel announced to the shepherds that he was bringing [from God] ‘good news of great joy for all people.’
May you know, in your life, God’s good news of great joy; may you know God’s love and joy and peace and hope and life in this world’s darkness.
May you know, in your life, God’s good news of great joy; may you know God’s love and joy and peace and hope and life in this world’s darkness.
Rob
29 Sep 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XVIII Sunday 22 September 2024
Pentecost XVIII Sunday 22 September 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
‘What a wondrous time is Spring’; it’s a line from a hymn (or chorus) that I love but for me, Spring is a time of hope. It’s much more obvious in colder climates but the signs of life and new life following winter are all around us. I love the flowers blooming; in our street the Jacarandas are already showing some purple. We may not appreciate swooping birds and much more active reptiles, but these too are signs of new life.
‘What a wondrous time is Spring’; it’s a line from a hymn (or chorus) that I love but for me, Spring is a time of hope. It’s much more obvious in colder climates but the signs of life and new life following winter are all around us. I love the flowers blooming; in our street the Jacarandas are already showing some purple. We may not appreciate swooping birds and much more active reptiles, but these too are signs of new life.
This is a complex time for us as Christians; we know that Jesus said that the world and all that is in it will pass away; Spring is a helpful reminder of two things.
This is a complex time for us as Christians; we know that Jesus said that the world and all that is in it will pass away; Spring is a helpful reminder of two things.
First, God is still giving life to this world. God has created a world of wonder and delight and, even though we know that it is temporary, and we are even more temporary residents in it, this world is still our place to get to know God. The God that we see in Spring is a God of life and new life.
First, God is still giving life to this world. God has created a world of wonder and delight and, even though we know that it is temporary, and we are even more temporary residents in it, this world is still our place to get to know God. The God that we see in Spring is a God of life and new life.
Second, as we approach Advent and Christmas, the changing life forms that we see around us, eggs hatching, bulbs growing, trees flowering, remind us that we too are to be changed. Jesus comes into this world, into this world that he, who is also the ‘Word’ of God has made, comes into this world to lead, to show us the way and to be the way to this promised new life from God in heaven, eternally. In one sense, Jesus is the first to hatch into new life in heaven and he shows us how to get there.
Second, as we approach Advent and Christmas, the changing life forms that we see around us, eggs hatching, bulbs growing, trees flowering, remind us that we too are to be changed. Jesus comes into this world, into this world that he, who is also the ‘Word’ of God has made, comes into this world to lead, to show us the way and to be the way to this promised new life from God in heaven, eternally. In one sense, Jesus is the first to hatch into new life in heaven and he shows us how to get there.
In the winter of this world’s darkness that we see and feel around us, I cling to the hope of new life that I see in Jesus. In this world God gives us moments of joy, glimpses of heaven; we are not offered heaven on Earth, but God offers his love and peace and his hope now and forever.
In the winter of this world’s darkness that we see and feel around us, I cling to the hope of new life that I see in Jesus. In this world God gives us moments of joy, glimpses of heaven; we are not offered heaven on Earth, but God offers his love and peace and his hope now and forever.
May you know God’s love and joy and hope and life
May you know God’s love and joy and hope and life
Rob
22 Sep 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XVII Sunday 15 September 2024
Pentecost XVII Sunday 15 September 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
So nice to have school holidays; so nice to have Spring.
So nice to have school holidays; so nice to have Spring.
I think that this might be our last chance to catch our breath; to refresh before a pretty frantic race to the end of the year. Some time before the end of the year we get one, or possibly two, ‘democracy sausages’; I think most sports and other activities all have finals underway and Grand Finals coming up; I think we have a car race at Bathurst and if you are interested even a Melbourne Cup. For others there are school formals; of course exams and lots of graduations!
I think that this might be our last chance to catch our breath; to refresh before a pretty frantic race to the end of the year. Some time before the end of the year we get one, or possibly two, ‘democracy sausages’; I think most sports and other activities all have finals underway and Grand Finals coming up; I think we have a car race at Bathurst and if you are interested even a Melbourne Cup. For others there are school formals; of course exams and lots of graduations!
Just as well we have no Moggill Markets for the next two months.
Just as well we have no Moggill Markets for the next two months.
I do hope that teachers (kindy, prep, school and specialists and sports coaches), parents, grand-parents and all our students have a chance to refresh!
I do hope that teachers (kindy, prep, school and specialists and sports coaches), parents, grand-parents and all our students have a chance to refresh!
This week in our Gospel reading Jesus brings to a conclusion our long series of thinking and being challenged about who the Saviour or the Christ or the Messiah of God really is and what God’s Saviour is promising to do. Jesus discussions with three different groups the hope, the hope for eternity that God offers; rather than projecting our hopes onto an imaginary Messiah, St Mark reminds us that in Jesus we find the hope that God is offering.
This week in our Gospel reading Jesus brings to a conclusion our long series of thinking and being challenged about who the Saviour or the Christ or the Messiah of God really is and what God’s Saviour is promising to do. Jesus discussions with three different groups the hope, the hope for eternity that God offers; rather than projecting our hopes onto an imaginary Messiah, St Mark reminds us that in Jesus we find the hope that God is offering.
The disciples were not looking for bad things but they were not hoping for what God is offering. This was a challenging message 2,000 years ago and it still is.
The disciples were not looking for bad things but they were not hoping for what God is offering. This was a challenging message 2,000 years ago and it still is.
May God bless you richly these holidays.
May God bless you richly these holidays.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
15 Sep 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XVI Sunday 8 September 2024
Pentecost XVI Sunday 8 September 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
What a wonderful time is Spring in South Queensland! This is my favourite time of year; for me it’s a time of hope, a time of promised future. The contrasts of the winter that has not yet let go, which I can feel in the chilly mornings, and the summer, which earlier sunrise promises, but which, with its humidity, has not yet arrived. The contrasts abound; we have both flowers to pick and weeds to pull.
What a wonderful time is Spring in South Queensland! This is my favourite time of year; for me it’s a time of hope, a time of promised future. The contrasts of the winter that has not yet let go, which I can feel in the chilly mornings, and the summer, which earlier sunrise promises, but which, with its humidity, has not yet arrived. The contrasts abound; we have both flowers to pick and weeds to pull.
In our Bible readings this Sunday Jesus is showing us God’s springtime. The world into which Jesus came was still a place of darkness and pain and suffering but Jesus showed the light and life and healing and love of God’s kingdom. Jesus brought the hope of God; he announced that God’s kingdom was coming.
In our Bible readings this Sunday Jesus is showing us God’s springtime. The world into which Jesus came was still a place of darkness and pain and suffering but Jesus showed the light and life and healing and love of God’s kingdom. Jesus brought the hope of God; he announced that God’s kingdom was coming.
People understandably hoped that the Messiah would establish ‘heaven on Earth’. Jesus came to tell us that ‘heaven is in heaven’. Jesus gives us glimpses of what God’s heaven is like and brings God’s presence. In Jesus we find both the hope of heaven and God’s presence while we are still on Earth.
People understandably hoped that the Messiah would establish ‘heaven on Earth’. Jesus came to tell us that ‘heaven is in heaven’. Jesus gives us glimpses of what God’s heaven is like and brings God’s presence. In Jesus we find both the hope of heaven and God’s presence while we are still on Earth.
For me personally this also is a time of change. The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide will hand its report to the Governor General this week. The commissioners have done an amazing job; they have personally invested enormous energy and compassion in this task. The stories particularly from families and veterans have been harrowing.
For me personally this also is a time of change. The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide will hand its report to the Governor General this week. The commissioners have done an amazing job; they have personally invested enormous energy and compassion in this task. The stories particularly from families and veterans have been harrowing.
I look forward to reading the report; the Royal Commission has already been a catalyst for some positive changes, and I am hopeful for more. My time seconded to DVA to establish the Veterans’ Chaplaincy Pilot Program has now ended; the report of the evaluation of my program (entitled, ‘It’s life saving work’ is very positive. It is now time for someone else to build whatever chaplaincy support within DVA comes from this and the Royal Commission report.
I look forward to reading the report; the Royal Commission has already been a catalyst for some positive changes, and I am hopeful for more. My time seconded to DVA to establish the Veterans’ Chaplaincy Pilot Program has now ended; the report of the evaluation of my program (entitled, ‘It’s life saving work’ is very positive. It is now time for someone else to build whatever chaplaincy support within DVA comes from this and the Royal Commission report.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
8 Sep 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XV Sunday 1 September 2024
Pentecost XV Sunday 1 September 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Winter is certainly over! There is much discussion, and probably jealousy from many places in the world, about our wonderful climate (until the summer humidity arrives) but we are certainly into the lawn-mowing time of year again. My thanks to those who did such great work this week with mower and other power tools to make the church grounds look so inviting; we do have a very pretty church.
Winter is certainly over! There is much discussion, and probably jealousy from many places in the world, about our wonderful climate (until the summer humidity arrives) but we are certainly into the lawn-mowing time of year again. My thanks to those who did such great work this week with mower and other power tools to make the church grounds look so inviting; we do have a very pretty church.
Of course, God’s gift of new life and growth bring the need for ongoing maintenance and Ann Greenwood, our maintenance coordinator, has included a notice about this.
Of course, God’s gift of new life and growth bring the need for ongoing maintenance and Ann Greenwood, our maintenance coordinator, has included a notice about this.
There is a notice in the following pages about the cessation of the Moggill Markets; this news has only just broken. It will take a while for us to work out what it means for us; there are other opportunities, and we will have a short meeting after church to talk about these.
There is a notice in the following pages about the cessation of the Moggill Markets; this news has only just broken. It will take a while for us to work out what it means for us; there are other opportunities, and we will have a short meeting after church to talk about these.
I love this morning’s Gospel reading. We all became very good at hand washing and sanitising during our COVID times, so we have a good background for Jesus’s point. Jesus tells the church of his time, the Pharisees, to keep things simple and to worry less about things of the world and more about things of God. (I hope I can resist the strong temptation to include toilet humour and plumber jokes in the sermon.)
I love this morning’s Gospel reading. We all became very good at hand washing and sanitising during our COVID times, so we have a good background for Jesus’s point. Jesus tells the church of his time, the Pharisees, to keep things simple and to worry less about things of the world and more about things of God. (I hope I can resist the strong temptation to include toilet humour and plumber jokes in the sermon.)
With other fathers, grand-fathers and great grand-fathers today I give thanks to God for the love of family and particularly of God our Father.
With other fathers, grand-fathers and great grand-fathers today I give thanks to God for the love of family and particularly of God our Father.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
1 Sep 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XIV Sunday 25 August 2024
Pentecost XIV Sunday 25 August 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Pessimists don’t get disappointed (well not as often)! I was not looking forward to the Clergy Conference this past week. Having spoken in Synod against the imposition of things like this on Very Small Churches with part-time clergy, in the end, I went because our bishop and our archdeacon asked me to. Sure, it was on the Gold Coast and we were staying 100 metres from the beach but looking at the CV’s of the speakers, I had set my expectations low.
Pessimists don’t get disappointed (well not as often)! I was not looking forward to the Clergy Conference this past week. Having spoken in Synod against the imposition of things like this on Very Small Churches with part-time clergy, in the end, I went because our bishop and our archdeacon asked me to. Sure, it was on the Gold Coast and we were staying 100 metres from the beach but looking at the CV’s of the speakers, I had set my expectations low.
How nice to be surprised by joy! How nice to, unexpectedly, find amazing new insights into the Book of Exodus and its relevance for us as a ‘Very Small Church’. The content was ‘clergy focussed’ which was to be expected, so I won’t share everything that I found useful but there will be a few things to share in coming weeks. The first is joy.
How nice to be surprised by joy! How nice to, unexpectedly, find amazing new insights into the Book of Exodus and its relevance for us as a ‘Very Small Church’. The content was ‘clergy focussed’ which was to be expected, so I won’t share everything that I found useful but there will be a few things to share in coming weeks. The first is joy.
St Paul lists joy as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit of God. When God’s Spirit lives in us we should expect to encounter and to produce joy. The insight, from those in much tougher circumstances than ours, is that in this world, this joy might just be snippets or glimpses or moments. We should not expect to have lives that are always and everywhere filled with joy, so when we encounter God’s true joy, we should allow ourselves time to appreciate it and to reflect upon it. Chasing joy won’t work but letting it in when it comes is amazing. No matter how deep and painful our darkness, God shines glimpses of joy into our lives; these glimpses give us hope for eternal, never-ending joy.
St Paul lists joy as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit of God. When God’s Spirit lives in us we should expect to encounter and to produce joy. The insight, from those in much tougher circumstances than ours, is that in this world, this joy might just be snippets or glimpses or moments. We should not expect to have lives that are always and everywhere filled with joy, so when we encounter God’s true joy, we should allow ourselves time to appreciate it and to reflect upon it. Chasing joy won’t work but letting it in when it comes is amazing. No matter how deep and painful our darkness, God shines glimpses of joy into our lives; these glimpses give us hope for eternal, never-ending joy.
This week’s readings, without ever mentioning the word, are all about hope. God’s joy gives us hope. The armour of God gives us hope. Jesus the bread of heaven, gives us hope. The readings also challenge us to ensure that our faith and our hope and our love are fixed on things which can never give life.
This week’s readings, without ever mentioning the word, are all about hope. God’s joy gives us hope. The armour of God gives us hope. Jesus the bread of heaven, gives us hope. The readings also challenge us to ensure that our faith and our hope and our love are fixed on things which can never give life.
Grace and peace and joy and hope,
Grace and peace and joy and hope,
Rob
25 August 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XIII Sunday 18 August 2024
Pentecost XIII Sunday 18 August 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
How nice to have the sunshine back; we only had rain for a few days, but it seemed longer. At our place it is lovely to have the tank full of water and even the grass looks green again – of course so do the weeds. For those sleeping rough, not such a great week.
How nice to have the sunshine back; we only had rain for a few days, but it seemed longer. At our place it is lovely to have the tank full of water and even the grass looks green again – of course so do the weeds. For those sleeping rough, not such a great week.
Our reactions to rain are interesting; we react or respond according to our own situation. This might be our experiences growing up or our concern for those around us or the greater need for rain or perhaps just our feelings at the time. We all have views of what ‘good’ is. Growing up on the farm, rain was a constant topic; too little, too much, wrong time.
Our reactions to rain are interesting; we react or respond according to our own situation. This might be our experiences growing up or our concern for those around us or the greater need for rain or perhaps just our feelings at the time. We all have views of what ‘good’ is. Growing up on the farm, rain was a constant topic; too little, too much, wrong time.
The rain at the Ekka may have dampened or spoilt a day out for some but, rain at the Ekka, is low on my ‘care-scale’.
The rain at the Ekka may have dampened or spoilt a day out for some but, rain at the Ekka, is low on my ‘care-scale’.
Higher up my care-scale were those parents struggling to get children to and from school and kindy in the rain, but the children all seemed to think that umbrellas and raincoats and even playing in the mud was fun. I understand wet washing, muddy footprints and trying to dry mud covered dogs but the same situation, ‘rain’, can be good or fun for others at the same time.
Higher up my care-scale were those parents struggling to get children to and from school and kindy in the rain, but the children all seemed to think that umbrellas and raincoats and even playing in the mud was fun. I understand wet washing, muddy footprints and trying to dry mud covered dogs but the same situation, ‘rain’, can be good or fun for others at the same time.
I have slept wet and cold (in the Infantry it’s ‘regardless of season, weather or terrain). So, this week I loved lying in bed, hearing the rain outside, calming my instincts knowing I was warm and dry, and then listening to the gentle rain; it became a truly peaceful feeling.
I have slept wet and cold (in the Infantry it’s ‘regardless of season, weather or terrain). So, this week I loved lying in bed, hearing the rain outside, calming my instincts knowing I was warm and dry, and then listening to the gentle rain; it became a truly peaceful feeling.
Jesus is dealing with the same issue; not rain and mud but everyone had a different view of what good was, what they wanted God to do for them and what heaven should be like. Many people didn’t like the answers that Jesus gave them – then and now. “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, they will live forever.” said Jesus, and “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Jesus is dealing with the same issue; not rain and mud but everyone had a different view of what good was, what they wanted God to do for them and what heaven should be like. Many people didn’t like the answers that Jesus gave them – then and now. “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, they will live forever.” said Jesus, and “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
18 August 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XII Sunday 11August 2024
Pentecost XII Sunday 11August 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
The Olympics fascinate me; people’s reactions fascinate me.
The Olympics fascinate me; people’s reactions fascinate me.
As a child, I was largely unaware of the Olympics or our national heroes. I was introduced to Herb Elliott; I wasn’t told that he was an Olympian famous; to me he just seemed an intense man.
As a child, I was largely unaware of the Olympics or our national heroes. I was introduced to Herb Elliott; I wasn’t told that he was an Olympian famous; to me he just seemed an intense man.
I lived through the lean years when Olympic medals for Australians were scarce but was able to introduce my children to the years from Sydney Olympics onwards with numerous Australian world-beating performances. We travelled to Sydney as a family to watch.
I lived through the lean years when Olympic medals for Australians were scarce but was able to introduce my children to the years from Sydney Olympics onwards with numerous Australian world-beating performances. We travelled to Sydney as a family to watch.
Now I’m more interested in what the Olympic Games mean to others.
Now I’m more interested in what the Olympic Games mean to others.
The original pause in war to allow various warriors to prove their prowess in military skills where men competed naked for a laurel wreath in many ways continues in spirit. I remember ‘cold war’ era competitions between the Russia and the USA and history records Hitler’s games when Jesse Owens won.
The original pause in war to allow various warriors to prove their prowess in military skills where men competed naked for a laurel wreath in many ways continues in spirit. I remember ‘cold war’ era competitions between the Russia and the USA and history records Hitler’s games when Jesse Owens won.
Now, I’m fascinated in people’s responses. I watch my grandchildren recording medal tallies on a chart each morning.
Now, I’m fascinated in people’s responses. I watch my grandchildren recording medal tallies on a chart each morning.
Logic can’t explain why adults feel better about themselves because someone from ‘our country’ has beaten competitors from another country or all other countries but we have been surrounded by the joy and excitement people who feel better because our Olympians have been successful. I admit to tears of joy at some of ‘our’ successes.
Logic can’t explain why adults feel better about themselves because someone from ‘our country’ has beaten competitors from another country or all other countries but we have been surrounded by the joy and excitement people who feel better because our Olympians have been successful. I admit to tears of joy at some of ‘our’ successes.
We know our joy will be fleeting and Olympic success actually fixes nothing.
We know our joy will be fleeting and Olympic success actually fixes nothing.
Our readings this Sunday continue John 6, Jesus tells us that through him, through his own body, God offers us what will give us joy; through Jesus, God offers to feed us with the very food of heaven; God offers us that which will let us feel love, joy and hope forever.
Our readings this Sunday continue John 6, Jesus tells us that through him, through his own body, God offers us what will give us joy; through Jesus, God offers to feed us with the very food of heaven; God offers us that which will let us feel love, joy and hope forever.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
11 August 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost XI Sunday 4 August 2024
Pentecost XI Sunday 4 August 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I wonder what has grabbed your attention this week.
I wonder what has grabbed your attention this week.
The Olympics has always seemed to promise something of interest for people who would not ordinarily be watching. I love the sports which normally don’t get media attention; great to see medals in canoeing and rowing and equestrian and cycling (yes I also love Australia’s swimming relay wins). Perhaps, by the time you read this, an Australian male will have won gold!
The Olympics has always seemed to promise something of interest for people who would not ordinarily be watching. I love the sports which normally don’t get media attention; great to see medals in canoeing and rowing and equestrian and cycling (yes I also love Australia’s swimming relay wins). Perhaps, by the time you read this, an Australian male will have won gold!
It is human, part of how God made us, to love the struggle against adversity, to love the eventual success. I wish for less focus on gold medallists; more on participants who achieve a personal best or overcome the greatest adversity. I love the stories of a girl from Tasmania, a boy from country South Australia.
It is human, part of how God made us, to love the struggle against adversity, to love the eventual success. I wish for less focus on gold medallists; more on participants who achieve a personal best or overcome the greatest adversity. I love the stories of a girl from Tasmania, a boy from country South Australia.
I don’t think I could be a coach at this, or perhaps any, level. The poor coaches are often forgotten when someone wins but the coach appears so often to wear the blame for a disappointing loss.
I don’t think I could be a coach at this, or perhaps any, level. The poor coaches are often forgotten when someone wins but the coach appears so often to wear the blame for a disappointing loss.
I wonder if this is how God feels; forgotten, when we feel we can achieve through our own efforts but blamed for failure when our efforts don’t succeed.
I wonder if this is how God feels; forgotten, when we feel we can achieve through our own efforts but blamed for failure when our efforts don’t succeed.
In the Bible, God certainly chooses the unlikely to be heroes, the ones that succeed, against all the forces of this world, in God’s power, when they faithfully follow God’s plan. In God’s Olympic games, God has an important job for each of us. Some are called to compete perhaps successfully, but many more are called to be trainers, officials, volunteers, supporters; even spectators who cheer loudly, passionately have a role. Jesus finds each of us so that we can join God’s team and he alone can coach us to the finish in heaven.
In the Bible, God certainly chooses the unlikely to be heroes, the ones that succeed, against all the forces of this world, in God’s power, when they faithfully follow God’s plan. In God’s Olympic games, God has an important job for each of us. Some are called to compete perhaps successfully, but many more are called to be trainers, officials, volunteers, supporters; even spectators who cheer loudly, passionately have a role. Jesus finds each of us so that we can join God’s team and he alone can coach us to the finish in heaven.
Our readings this Sunday continue John 6, Jesus the bread of life, and in the Old Testament continue King David’s ‘downfall’. Each is preparing us to not expect life in this world to be perfect, easy, pain-free, comfortable and without failures – only heaven, says Jesus, will be like that.
Our readings this Sunday continue John 6, Jesus the bread of life, and in the Old Testament continue King David’s ‘downfall’. Each is preparing us to not expect life in this world to be perfect, easy, pain-free, comfortable and without failures – only heaven, says Jesus, will be like that.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
4 August 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost X Sunday 28 July 2024
Pentecost X Sunday 28 July 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Sorry I can’t be with you all this Sunday; Penny and I will be in Sydney attending a memorial service.
Sorry I can’t be with you all this Sunday; Penny and I will be in Sydney attending a memorial service.
It is a pleasure to welcome the Rev’d Simon Kim back to preach again and great to have Angella back after her visit to her family in the UK.
It is a pleasure to welcome the Rev’d Simon Kim back to preach again and great to have Angella back after her visit to her family in the UK.
Our Ladies’ and Men’s breakfasts provide a less formal opportunity for us to fellowship with each other and to share a little more than we can over coffee after church. I was reminded that having them at the same time is obviously convenient for some but excludes those need to look after children. I don’t have an immediate solution but will think about it.
Our Ladies’ and Men’s breakfasts provide a less formal opportunity for us to fellowship with each other and to share a little more than we can over coffee after church. I was reminded that having them at the same time is obviously convenient for some but excludes those need to look after children. I don’t have an immediate solution but will think about it.
I was able to have coffee this week with the new minister from Brisbane West Uniting Church. He is keen to look at things which we, and the other churches in Moggill, can do together.
I was able to have coffee this week with the new minister from Brisbane West Uniting Church. He is keen to look at things which we, and the other churches in Moggill, can do together.
I have had a number of meetings this week with others in our diocese on a couple of issues. Following my motion in synod, I will be involved in a social cohesion working group (I think I have managed to avoid being chair). Also flowing from synod, I will engaging more with other Anglican agencies to attempt to develop more Anglican communities where Australian Defence Force members, families and veterans feel they are welcome.
I have had a number of meetings this week with others in our diocese on a couple of issues. Following my motion in synod, I will be involved in a social cohesion working group (I think I have managed to avoid being chair). Also flowing from synod, I will engaging more with other Anglican agencies to attempt to develop more Anglican communities where Australian Defence Force members, families and veterans feel they are welcome.
We approach our busy end of the month; my thanks and prayers for all involved in the markets next weekend.
We approach our busy end of the month; my thanks and prayers for all involved in the markets next weekend.
Our readings this Sunday begin 5 consecutive weeks of John 6, Jesus the bread of life, and in the Old Testament 2 weeks of King David’s ‘downfall’. Each is preparing us to not expect life in this world to be perfect, easy, pain-free and comfortable – only heaven, says Jesus, will be like that.
Our readings this Sunday begin 5 consecutive weeks of John 6, Jesus the bread of life, and in the Old Testament 2 weeks of King David’s ‘downfall’. Each is preparing us to not expect life in this world to be perfect, easy, pain-free and comfortable – only heaven, says Jesus, will be like that.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
28 July 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost IX Sunday – 21 JULY 2024
Pentecost IX Sunday – 21 JULY 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
What an amazing week around our world.
What an amazing week around our world.
In the Northern Hemisphere there are the joys of summer and holidays in contrast to our bitterly cold westerly winds, colds, flu and virus induced illness.
In the Northern Hemisphere there are the joys of summer and holidays in contrast to our bitterly cold westerly winds, colds, flu and virus induced illness.
In the UK we see the smooth transition of democratically elected government with the pomp of the King’s speech; in the US we have seen the attempted assassination of a former president during an election campaign.
In the UK we see the smooth transition of democratically elected government with the pomp of the King’s speech; in the US we have seen the attempted assassination of a former president during an election campaign.
And then the greatest cyber outage that our world has yet seen with the same issue causing the grounding of aircraft, closing banks, many shops and restaurants. Chemists struggled to fill prescriptions, MacDonalds couldn’t take an order for a hamburger and many, many people couldn’t even buy food because they had no way to pay for it. The cause appears to have been a relatively simple mistake which has had this major, global, effect on so much in our world, our community and our homes.
And then the greatest cyber outage that our world has yet seen with the same issue causing the grounding of aircraft, closing banks, many shops and restaurants. Chemists struggled to fill prescriptions, MacDonalds couldn’t take an order for a hamburger and many, many people couldn’t even buy food because they had no way to pay for it. The cause appears to have been a relatively simple mistake which has had this major, global, effect on so much in our world, our community and our homes.
I don’t want to trivialise the impact, but it was also wonderfully refreshing to see what still worked and in all of this, God still worked!
I don’t want to trivialise the impact, but it was also wonderfully refreshing to see what still worked and in all of this, God still worked!
In this Sunday’s readings God confronts both the apparent logic and the difficulties of the world. King David wanted to build God a temple, a glorious house for God; what a wonderful idea; and yet God said, “No.”
In this Sunday’s readings God confronts both the apparent logic and the difficulties of the world. King David wanted to build God a temple, a glorious house for God; what a wonderful idea; and yet God said, “No.”
The disciples did as Jesus had said, got into the boat and went where Jesus had told them to go but struggled against the wind and the waves.
The disciples did as Jesus had said, got into the boat and went where Jesus had told them to go but struggled against the wind and the waves.
God would not be constrained by being put in one place; God does not promise that what he tells us to do will be easy or achievable in our own power. Rather than us making a house for God, our God promises to make us a house. When our days are fulfilled, we will live in God’s house, surrounded by God’s grace forever; until then we are to learn in God’s power, to trust and obey – even when it's hard or apparently illogical.
God would not be constrained by being put in one place; God does not promise that what he tells us to do will be easy or achievable in our own power. Rather than us making a house for God, our God promises to make us a house. When our days are fulfilled, we will live in God’s house, surrounded by God’s grace forever; until then we are to learn in God’s power, to trust and obey – even when it's hard or apparently illogical.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
21 July 24
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost VIII Sunday – 14 JULY 2024
Pentecost VIII Sunday – 14 JULY 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Bishop John Roundhill’s visit to us last week was a celebration of who we are as the ‘people of God in Moggill.’ Our bishop and his visit representing the wider church and remind us that even as a small church in a big city, we are connected with hundreds of other churches small and large. We know that through the Holy Spirit, God is always with us. Bishop John’s presence reminds us that we join with thousands of others who worship and follow God.
Bishop John Roundhill’s visit to us last week was a celebration of who we are as the ‘people of God in Moggill.’ Our bishop and his visit representing the wider church and remind us that even as a small church in a big city, we are connected with hundreds of other churches small and large. We know that through the Holy Spirit, God is always with us. Bishop John’s presence reminds us that we join with thousands of others who worship and follow God.
This weekend The Rev’d Rod Fisher was inducted at Brisbane West Uniting Church, just on the other side of the school. This is a joyous and hope focussed time for people who have been looking for a minister for quite a while. I pray that God will empower and bless Rod’s ministry and the people of BWUC. I look forward to working with them.
This weekend The Rev’d Rod Fisher was inducted at Brisbane West Uniting Church, just on the other side of the school. This is a joyous and hope focussed time for people who have been looking for a minister for quite a while. I pray that God will empower and bless Rod’s ministry and the people of BWUC. I look forward to working with them.
There are growing signs that the world around us is getting pretty shaken up. We face comparatively peaceful elections here in Queensland; we can’t say the same of all elections around the world. We have peace; very little threat of bombs, rockets, armed drones; we don’t suffer under leaders who might execute us to show their power; we can’t say that for so much of the world.
There are growing signs that the world around us is getting pretty shaken up. We face comparatively peaceful elections here in Queensland; we can’t say the same of all elections around the world. We have peace; very little threat of bombs, rockets, armed drones; we don’t suffer under leaders who might execute us to show their power; we can’t say that for so much of the world.
We have food, power, clean water, education and health care, all the necessities of this world’s life; not so for much of the world.
We have food, power, clean water, education and health care, all the necessities of this world’s life; not so for much of the world.
This Sunday our readings take us into times when God’s followers are looking for hope when they are surrounded by a world of war or enslaved by an occupying power or let down by weak kings. John the Baptist even looked to Jesus for salvation from a weak but ruthless king.
This Sunday our readings take us into times when God’s followers are looking for hope when they are surrounded by a world of war or enslaved by an occupying power or let down by weak kings. John the Baptist even looked to Jesus for salvation from a weak but ruthless king.
Paul’s letter to the Ephesians tells us of the hope that our God offers his faithful. Paul reminds us of our future, our inheritance, ‘blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places,’ and of the promised personal presence of the Holy Spirit ‘who is the guarantee of our inheritance’.
Paul’s letter to the Ephesians tells us of the hope that our God offers his faithful. Paul reminds us of our future, our inheritance, ‘blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places,’ and of the promised personal presence of the Holy Spirit ‘who is the guarantee of our inheritance’.
As the world and as we ourselves are shaken, God wants us to know our eternal future and his personal loving, powerful presence through the Holy Spirit.
As the world and as we ourselves are shaken, God wants us to know our eternal future and his personal loving, powerful presence through the Holy Spirit.
Grace and peace and life and joy and love from our God,
Grace and peace and life and joy and love from our God,
Rob
14 July 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost Vll Sunday – 7 JULY 2024
Pentecost Vll Sunday – 7 JULY 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Wonderful to have Bishop John Roundhill, bishop of the Southern Region of our diocese, with us this morning. This is your opportunity to get ‘up close and personal’ with the bishop; your chance to ask him the tough questions.
Wonderful to have Bishop John Roundhill, bishop of the Southern Region of our diocese, with us this morning. This is your opportunity to get ‘up close and personal’ with the bishop; your chance to ask him the tough questions.
It’s also Bishop John’s birthday – he has obviously heard that we are the parish which does birthdays best.
It’s also Bishop John’s birthday – he has obviously heard that we are the parish which does birthdays best.
My great thanks to all who helped with the Moggill Markets yesterday. I’m never sure, in advance, how a wet weekend in the school holidays will go, but we ended up with a stunning winter day. The money that we raise from our cake stall is needed and very gratefully received by those Anglican Church and other charities that we support.
My great thanks to all who helped with the Moggill Markets yesterday. I’m never sure, in advance, how a wet weekend in the school holidays will go, but we ended up with a stunning winter day. The money that we raise from our cake stall is needed and very gratefully received by those Anglican Church and other charities that we support.
Thanks also to those who lead our Church Children’s Craft on market days. This week I baptised a young baby whose family reconnected with us through coming along to Church Children’s Craft.
Thanks also to those who lead our Church Children’s Craft on market days. This week I baptised a young baby whose family reconnected with us through coming along to Church Children’s Craft.
I noted the Prime Minister’s comments this week on the place of religious parties in our political structure and the potential for this to divide our social cohesion. Two brief points:
I noted the Prime Minister’s comments this week on the place of religious parties in our political structure and the potential for this to divide our social cohesion. Two brief points:
- • We had three political parties with tents and stands at our markets – this is a welcome opportunity for us to engage and for politicians to hear our views.
- • After a synod motion, I will be forming a social cohesion working group within our diocese.
Our bishop has great Bible passages on which to preach this Sunday and I’m looking forward to his insights. I take encouragement from this week’s Gospel. Jesus and his message of life and light and healing and God’s love were rejected by people of his town; we should therefore not be discouraged when those around us, even in our own families, similarly reject God’s love and healing and life and hope.
Our bishop has great Bible passages on which to preach this Sunday and I’m looking forward to his insights. I take encouragement from this week’s Gospel. Jesus and his message of life and light and healing and God’s love were rejected by people of his town; we should therefore not be discouraged when those around us, even in our own families, similarly reject God’s love and healing and life and hope.
Grace and peace and life and joy and love from our God,
Grace and peace and life and joy and love from our God,
Rob
Rob
7 July 2024
7 July 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost VI Sunday – 30 June 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
What a busy place we are and what a full week it has been!
What a busy place we are and what a full week it has been!
Synod last weekend was one of the best that I have attended. I will leave Bron and Sam to tell you more, but our new Archbishop built upon the slightly less formal approach commenced so successfully by Bishop Cameron Venables last year.
Synod last weekend was one of the best that I have attended. I will leave Bron and Sam to tell you more, but our new Archbishop built upon the slightly less formal approach commenced so successfully by Bishop Cameron Venables last year.
Synod, now that we have some new leadership, appeared more open to considering different approaches to deal with the issues that we face and that might be ahead for the Anglican Church and for us as a parish. For example, one consistent theme was why we as a ‘very small church’ with a part-time priest-in-charge, are expected in many areas to pay the same costs as larger parishes with full-time clergy.
Synod, now that we have some new leadership, appeared more open to considering different approaches to deal with the issues that we face and that might be ahead for the Anglican Church and for us as a parish. For example, one consistent theme was why we as a ‘very small church’ with a part-time priest-in-charge, are expected in many areas to pay the same costs as larger parishes with full-time clergy.
I had not intended to participate speak on any motions this synod. As you all expect, I went with a prepared question in case the opportunity arose (it did). On a few occasions when I deemed it really important, I couldn’t remain silent and spoke on your behalf in debate.
I had not intended to participate speak on any motions this synod. As you all expect, I went with a prepared question in case the opportunity arose (it did). On a few occasions when I deemed it really important, I couldn’t remain silent and spoke on your behalf in debate.
This Sunday in our readings the theme is reflected in the words of the Collect,
This Sunday in our readings the theme is reflected in the words of the Collect,
‘O God for whom we search, our help when help has failed: give us courage to expose our need and ask to be made whole;
‘O God for whom we search, our help when help has failed: give us courage to expose our need and ask to be made whole;
God wants to be our god, the source of our hope, and God will take us into those places where, in the words of our opening hymn; in those places Jesus says, ‘Come as you are – my love sets no limits’
God wants to be our god, the source of our hope, and God will take us into those places where, in the words of our opening hymn; in those places Jesus says, ‘Come as you are – my love sets no limits’
God wants to known for His love; known by each of us as the source of hope when things are beyond our resources, the true source of life and love and peace and joy – this is our hope.
God wants to known for His love; known by each of us as the source of hope when things are beyond our resources, the true source of life and love and peace and joy – this is our hope.
Next Sunday we have Bishop John Roundhill joining us as preacher and celebrant. He has said that he is looking forward to delivering a children’s talk and is keen to meet with as many as possible after the service. He will also meet with parish Council.
Next Sunday we have Bishop John Roundhill joining us as preacher and celebrant. He has said that he is looking forward to delivering a children’s talk and is keen to meet with as many as possible after the service. He will also meet with parish Council.
Grace and peace and life and joy and love from our God,
Grace and peace and life and joy and love from our God,
Rob
30 June 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
After last week’s psalm invited us to ‘be still and know that I am God’; I have had a few opportunities to let this be my reality this week. I know it is against my nature to allow this but as I have tried to be still, God has filled the spaces. And, also, sometimes the harder I have tried, the less I have achieved.
After last week’s psalm invited us to ‘be still and know that I am God’; I have had a few opportunities to let this be my reality this week. I know it is against my nature to allow this but as I have tried to be still, God has filled the spaces. And, also, sometimes the harder I have tried, the less I have achieved.
I flew down to Melbourne on Tuesday. It was one of those perfectly clear days when even at 40,000 feet you could see the ground; see the sea and the canals and the islands; see the mountains and the valleys. There was time on the plane for Morning Prayer and time to do as God told me, to look on and be awestruck as God told me to remember that He made all that I could see. The waves and the tiny (from the air) boats and the valleys still filled with cloud took on a new meaning and beauty.
I flew down to Melbourne on Tuesday. It was one of those perfectly clear days when even at 40,000 feet you could see the ground; see the sea and the canals and the islands; see the mountains and the valleys. There was time on the plane for Morning Prayer and time to do as God told me, to look on and be awestruck as God told me to remember that He made all that I could see. The waves and the tiny (from the air) boats and the valleys still filled with cloud took on a new meaning and beauty.
Sometimes being still lets us see God in action and sometimes it gives us time to appreciate all that God has created.
Sometimes being still lets us see God in action and sometimes it gives us time to appreciate all that God has created.
This weekend we have our diocesan synod, our annual formal gathering or parliament of our church. It will be Archbishop Jeremy’s first time leading our synod; his first opportunity to give us his ‘charge’ or message. I look forward to hearing his vision and invocation.
This weekend we have our diocesan synod, our annual formal gathering or parliament of our church. It will be Archbishop Jeremy’s first time leading our synod; his first opportunity to give us his ‘charge’ or message. I look forward to hearing his vision and invocation.
This gathering is also the opportunity for Archbishop Jeremy to consecrate Sarah Ploughman as bishop. Bishop Sarah brings a new skillset. Her background has been in chaplaincy and in clergy selection, training and formation. Sarah is to be bishop of the Northern Region, please pray for her and for her ministry.
This gathering is also the opportunity for Archbishop Jeremy to consecrate Sarah Ploughman as bishop. Bishop Sarah brings a new skillset. Her background has been in chaplaincy and in clergy selection, training and formation. Sarah is to be bishop of the Northern Region, please pray for her and for her ministry.
Finally, our Sunday readings emphasise God’s power over both human adversaries – no matter how great – and over even the extremes of nature. God will take each of us into times of darkness and trouble, into the storms of life. Like the disciples in a sinking boat in the midst of a storm, may we not doubt God’s power and God’s plan and God’s love, may we not lose faith.
Finally, our Sunday readings emphasise God’s power over both human adversaries – no matter how great – and over even the extremes of nature. God will take each of us into times of darkness and trouble, into the storms of life. Like the disciples in a sinking boat in the midst of a storm, may we not doubt God’s power and God’s plan and God’s love, may we not lose faith.
Rob
23 June 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 16 June 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 16 June 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
My thanks to all for your efforts during our working bee this weekend. We are blessed to have a lovely church and grounds but of course these come with the need for tender love and care. The more we are able to do ourselves the better.
My thanks to all for your efforts during our working bee this weekend. We are blessed to have a lovely church and grounds but of course these come with the need for tender love and care. The more we are able to do ourselves the better.
I have had a week of encountering the real and living darkness in which many are living. Most of these are not in our parish but most have some church connection.
I have had a week of encountering the real and living darkness in which many are living. Most of these are not in our parish but most have some church connection.
We believe in and worship a God who speaks of and who came into this world of darkness. Our ‘God is light in whom there is no darkness at all.’ Our God, into the darkness, said ‘Let there be light.’ at the beginning of creation. John’s Gospel reminds us that ‘God’s light shines in the darkness and no darkness has ever overcome it.’ And Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”
We believe in and worship a God who speaks of and who came into this world of darkness. Our ‘God is light in whom there is no darkness at all.’ Our God, into the darkness, said ‘Let there be light.’ at the beginning of creation. John’s Gospel reminds us that ‘God’s light shines in the darkness and no darkness has ever overcome it.’ And Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”
So, I understand that people might expect that for Christians there should be no darkness in this world. It’s true that Jesus did heal some people and cast out their demons and even bring some back to life for a while – this was to show us the power of God not to show us God’s plans for earthly life.
So, I understand that people might expect that for Christians there should be no darkness in this world. It’s true that Jesus did heal some people and cast out their demons and even bring some back to life for a while – this was to show us the power of God not to show us God’s plans for earthly life.
There will be no darkness for those who, after death and God’s judgement. end up in God’s house, in heaven forever. In this world however, God tells us that there will be darkness and sin and pain and evil and persecution and war and injustice and death but that God will personally comfort us in these.
There will be no darkness for those who, after death and God’s judgement. end up in God’s house, in heaven forever. In this world however, God tells us that there will be darkness and sin and pain and evil and persecution and war and injustice and death but that God will personally comfort us in these.
I understand why we look to the things and people of this world to comfort us, to ease our pain and to bring light and joy into our darkness; but God wants us to learn to rely only on God for our comfort and our hope.
I understand why we look to the things and people of this world to comfort us, to ease our pain and to bring light and joy into our darkness; but God wants us to learn to rely only on God for our comfort and our hope.
I love health and life and love and fairness and beauty. I abhor violence and hatred and injustice and persecution and sickness, pain and death. I care much for the sick and lonely and for those who mourn. I do not, however, expect any human power or authority or medical person will be able to prevent these. Too often we allow earthly authorities and medical authorities to prolong our suffering. King David urges us to, ‘put not your trust in princes’.
I love health and life and love and fairness and beauty. I abhor violence and hatred and injustice and persecution and sickness, pain and death. I care much for the sick and lonely and for those who mourn. I do not, however, expect any human power or authority or medical person will be able to prevent these. Too often we allow earthly authorities and medical authorities to prolong our suffering. King David urges us to, ‘put not your trust in princes’.
Jesus could have himself and could have urged us to blame others and to cry out for vengeance and justice but he didn’t!
Jesus could have himself and could have urged us to blame others and to cry out for vengeance and justice but he didn’t!
Isaiah tells the children of Israel that God is using Cyrus the terrible Babylonian Emperor and his armies to wreak havoc but so that people might find and learn the treasures of faith in God that are only in darkness.
Isaiah tells the children of Israel that God is using Cyrus the terrible Babylonian Emperor and his armies to wreak havoc but so that people might find and learn the treasures of faith in God that are only in darkness.
So, as God’s witnesses appointed by Jesus, can we in the power of the Holy Spirit, do as Jesus commanded; can we let God’s light and life and hope and joy and peace into our own darkness and then can we bring this comfort to those in their darkness? This week’s readings implore us to be still and to watch God work; this is a call to be with people but to not try to fix everything; instead to let God bring comfort and love. ‘Be still and know that I am God.’
So, as God’s witnesses appointed by Jesus, can we in the power of the Holy Spirit, do as Jesus commanded; can we let God’s light and life and hope and joy and peace into our own darkness and then can we bring this comfort to those in their darkness? This week’s readings implore us to be still and to watch God work; this is a call to be with people but to not try to fix everything; instead to let God bring comfort and love. ‘Be still and know that I am God.’
Rob
16 June 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost III Sunday – 9 June 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Winter has certainly arrived and it is a beautiful time of year.
Winter has certainly arrived and it is a beautiful time of year.
It’s a time of mixed blessings. Some of us rejoice in being able to wear ‘winter woollies’, to sleep without having the air-conditioning on and to enjoy winter dishes including nice warming soups. For others this is a time when the aches and pains exacerbated by the cold are more painful; there are certainly plenty of winter colds, flu and other virus ailments travelling amongst us (thank you to those who have stayed home to not share).
It’s a time of mixed blessings. Some of us rejoice in being able to wear ‘winter woollies’, to sleep without having the air-conditioning on and to enjoy winter dishes including nice warming soups. For others this is a time when the aches and pains exacerbated by the cold are more painful; there are certainly plenty of winter colds, flu and other virus ailments travelling amongst us (thank you to those who have stayed home to not share).
It's also the time of year when we spend more time at home; this brings pressures and takes away some of our normal coping mechanisms.
It's also the time of year when we spend more time at home; this brings pressures and takes away some of our normal coping mechanisms.
The work of Anglicare and professional agencies is important but they can usually only deal with physical needs. Most of all we need help with our spiritual needs. In the Army I teach people that spiritual health can never just be the work of chaplains.
The work of Anglicare and professional agencies is important but they can usually only deal with physical needs. Most of all we need help with our spiritual needs. In the Army I teach people that spiritual health can never just be the work of chaplains.
Most health work isn’t done by doctors; it’s done by medics and nurses and people on the scene who provide first aid but also by mates, friends and families who might take drive us to the doctor or care for us at home even take us to the shops when we are unable to drive ourselves. Doctors provide acute care and train and supervise others but it isn’t their role to do the rest.
Most health work isn’t done by doctors; it’s done by medics and nurses and people on the scene who provide first aid but also by mates, friends and families who might take drive us to the doctor or care for us at home even take us to the shops when we are unable to drive ourselves. Doctors provide acute care and train and supervise others but it isn’t their role to do the rest.
In the same way spiritual health work shouldn’t and can’t be done just by chaplains or clergy. We all have a role in spiritual health care within our parish and our community – we can all pass on God’s love. Like first aid for the physically injured we can all provide spiritual first aid. Offering to listen over a cup of coffee or to take a person out of the house for a while sounds simple but it can make a spiritual difference. Most people don’t need me as a priest, they need us. Don’t be afraid to offer to pray with people. St Paul tells us God already knows what we need, God is just waiting for us to ask.
In the same way spiritual health work shouldn’t and can’t be done just by chaplains or clergy. We all have a role in spiritual health care within our parish and our community – we can all pass on God’s love. Like first aid for the physically injured we can all provide spiritual first aid. Offering to listen over a cup of coffee or to take a person out of the house for a while sounds simple but it can make a spiritual difference. Most people don’t need me as a priest, they need us. Don’t be afraid to offer to pray with people. St Paul tells us God already knows what we need, God is just waiting for us to ask.
God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit – let us, in the power of the same spirit, pass God’s love to those around us.
God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit – let us, in the power of the same spirit, pass God’s love to those around us.
Rob
9 June 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Pentecost II Sunday – 2 June 2024
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the second half of the church’s year. Since Advent, last December, we have been focussing on the special ‘life of Jesus’ events. We have celebrated the prophesies of and then the reality of the Saviour’s birth at Christmas; we then worked through Jesus’s baptism and ministry and then his suffering, crucifixion, death, burial and then the joyous demonstration of God’s power and love in the resurrection of Jesus at Easter. Our ‘life of Jesus’ journey culminates with the Ascension into heaven and then the handover, the coming of the Holy Spirit.
After all these Christian events, we now move into the time of thinking, and doing and being God’s church, God’s people, God’s witnesses living and working, in the world. These ‘Ordinary Sundays’ are our opportunities to think of the real issues in our world, for our families, and in our lives.
Jesus has said that he will not leave us alone, without help, without comfort.
The purpose of the dramatic events of Pentecost with the Holy Spirit coming upon the disciples with the sound of a rushing wind and with flames of fire appearing on their heads was to show them that the same God whom they had known in Jesus, was with them in the Holy Spirit.
Our task is now to be and to go and to do what Jesus did. This is much harder than being faithful observers or passengers in Jesus’s journey. We are to be God’s own hands and arms and voices for those around us in God’s world. The good news is that we are to have the same power that was in Jesus, the power of God, of God’s Holy Spirit.
Jesus’s final words to his disciples “… but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you will be my witnesses in [the world].’
May the power of God come upon us and our church in God’s world.
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
2 June 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Welcome to Trinity Sunday!
Welcome to Trinity Sunday!
If you sometimes find understanding the relationships within Godself or Father, Son and Holy Spirit then you are in very good company. The church has argued about this forever and our various creeds, The Apostles Creed, The Nicene Creed (the one we say most Sundays) and the Athanasian Creed are all attempts to explain the nature of and relationships with God.
If you sometimes find understanding the relationships within Godself or Father, Son and Holy Spirit then you are in very good company. The church has argued about this forever and our various creeds, The Apostles Creed, The Nicene Creed (the one we say most Sundays) and the Athanasian Creed are all attempts to explain the nature of and relationships with God.
I love some of the history of the Nicene Creed; the Emperor invited 1800 bishops to a meeting (over 300 bishops attended) looking for a consensus on the nature go God – what could possibly go wrong here? Hmmm.
I love some of the history of the Nicene Creed; the Emperor invited 1800 bishops to a meeting (over 300 bishops attended) looking for a consensus on the nature go God – what could possibly go wrong here? Hmmm.
The Nicene Creed, which was subsequently edited by a later council into the form we now have, defined ‘orthodox’ or ‘catholic’ faith which mean normal or true and universal faith for Christians. This orthodox faith was enforceable by the Emperor and later by kings. It was designed amongst other things to stop Christians from killing each other and burning each other’s churches.
The Nicene Creed, which was subsequently edited by a later council into the form we now have, defined ‘orthodox’ or ‘catholic’ faith which mean normal or true and universal faith for Christians. This orthodox faith was enforceable by the Emperor and later by kings. It was designed amongst other things to stop Christians from killing each other and burning each other’s churches.
Understanding the nature of the God who created us and who calls us into a relationship with him is important but throughout the Gospels and the New Testament, Jesus and the Epistle writers remind us that in this world with our human minds, we can only understand a little of God. St Paul, a very educated man, writes that in this world we can only see God as it were in a mirror dimly. In heaven we will see God face to face and will have all of eternity to get to know the whole of an infinite God.
Understanding the nature of the God who created us and who calls us into a relationship with him is important but throughout the Gospels and the New Testament, Jesus and the Epistle writers remind us that in this world with our human minds, we can only understand a little of God. St Paul, a very educated man, writes that in this world we can only see God as it were in a mirror dimly. In heaven we will see God face to face and will have all of eternity to get to know the whole of an infinite God.
This Sunday, we will celebrate and explore a little of the meaning of God being Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
This Sunday, we will celebrate and explore a little of the meaning of God being Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
God has made us in God’s own image and breathed life into us with God’s own breath and God calls us to love and trust and follow and to eventually be reunited with God in heaven forever.
God has made us in God’s own image and breathed life into us with God’s own breath and God calls us to love and trust and follow and to eventually be reunited with God in heaven forever.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
26 May 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 19 May 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 19 May 2024
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday!
Yes, this Sunday, Pentecost Sunday, when we celebrate the gift to us of God’s Holy Spirit, is also the birthday of the Christian Church. Today marks the transition to the third and current era and the third type of relationship of human beings, God’s ultimate creation, with God.
Yes, this Sunday, Pentecost Sunday, when we celebrate the gift to us of God’s Holy Spirit, is also the birthday of the Christian Church. Today marks the transition to the third and current era and the third type of relationship of human beings, God’s ultimate creation, with God.
God has given life to all in creation that has life, but human beings alone are created in the image of God and have life breathed into us with God’s own breath. It is human beings alone that can have this gift of and this relationship with God through God’s indwelling Holy Spirit.
God has given life to all in creation that has life, but human beings alone are created in the image of God and have life breathed into us with God’s own breath. It is human beings alone that can have this gift of and this relationship with God through God’s indwelling Holy Spirit.
There are all sorts of wonderful symbols that we use to mark and to show the presence of the Holy Spirit of God in each of us and within our church.
There are all sorts of wonderful symbols that we use to mark and to show the presence of the Holy Spirit of God in each of us and within our church.
The Bible tells us of the signs of the Spirit coming upon the disciples like a rushing wind and with the appearance of flames above their heads. It sounds amazing, spectacular and impossible to deny or not recognise. The point of these symbols was not that we should try to emulate the symbols but that we should all realise that what followed, the supernatural acts of the disciples, was truly in the power of God, of God’s Holy Spirit.
The Bible tells us of the signs of the Spirit coming upon the disciples like a rushing wind and with the appearance of flames above their heads. It sounds amazing, spectacular and impossible to deny or not recognise. The point of these symbols was not that we should try to emulate the symbols but that we should all realise that what followed, the supernatural acts of the disciples, was truly in the power of God, of God’s Holy Spirit.
This Sunday, we will celebrate and also explore the meaning of Pentecost, of our birthday and the birthday present to us from God, God’s own spirit or breath.
This Sunday, we will celebrate and also explore the meaning of Pentecost, of our birthday and the birthday present to us from God, God’s own spirit or breath.
A few additional notices with more details in this GNT:
A few additional notices with more details in this GNT:
· Bishop John Roundhill has advised that he will be visiting us on Sunday 7 July
· Bishop John Roundhill has advised that he will be visiting us on Sunday 7 July
· Our next Parish working bee is planned for Saturday 15 June
· Our next Parish working bee is planned for Saturday 15 June
Next Sunday as we celebrate Trinity or ‘who is God?’ Sunday.
Next Sunday as we celebrate Trinity or ‘who is God?’ Sunday.
Let us remember Jesus’s message before he left his disciples – “it is to your advantage that I go away … I will send the Advocate [Holy Spirit] to you.
Let us remember Jesus’s message before he left his disciples – “it is to your advantage that I go away … I will send the Advocate [Holy Spirit] to you.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
19 May 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
We have come to the end of Easter!
We have come to the end of Easter!
Yes, this Sunday should be the end of our Easter eggs, but it is also the logical conclusion of Easter. The journey of the Son of God on Earth as a human being born of Mary began at Christmas, continued through his death on good Friday and his resurrection, his life after death and victory over death on Easter Sunday but the natural conclusion of this is a return to heaven.
Yes, this Sunday should be the end of our Easter eggs, but it is also the logical conclusion of Easter. The journey of the Son of God on Earth as a human being born of Mary began at Christmas, continued through his death on good Friday and his resurrection, his life after death and victory over death on Easter Sunday but the natural conclusion of this is a return to heaven.
Next Sunday, 19 May, we will celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit with all of the life and hope that comes with God’s spirit but before we do, we should remember the ascension of Jesus into heaven.
Next Sunday, 19 May, we will celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit with all of the life and hope that comes with God’s spirit but before we do, we should remember the ascension of Jesus into heaven.
Just after telling his disciples that he was going to prepare rooms (or mansions) in God’s house for them, Jesus, on the night before he died, told his disciples “I am the way and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me.”
Just after telling his disciples that he was going to prepare rooms (or mansions) in God’s house for them, Jesus, on the night before he died, told his disciples “I am the way and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me.”
For me, my hope, my ‘Joy to the world.’ begins at Christmas and grows through Easter but it is only complete in heaven. I need to know that Jesus is now in heaven.
For me, my hope, my ‘Joy to the world.’ begins at Christmas and grows through Easter but it is only complete in heaven. I need to know that Jesus is now in heaven.
This Sunday as we remember and celebrate the ascension into heaven of Jesus who had died and been brought back to life by his Father, let us also remember that we too will die but our hope is that we too will be brought to life by the Father and to ascend into heaven to live with God forever.
This Sunday as we remember and celebrate the ascension into heaven of Jesus who had died and been brought back to life by his Father, let us also remember that we too will die but our hope is that we too will be brought to life by the Father and to ascend into heaven to live with God forever.
A special thank you to all who worked so hard and successfully in support of our market stall and children’s craft last weekend – it was a successful day – well done!
A special thank you to all who worked so hard and successfully in support of our market stall and children’s craft last weekend – it was a successful day – well done!
Next Sunday as we celebrate Pentecost, please feel free to wear red or any other celebratory colour.
Next Sunday as we celebrate Pentecost, please feel free to wear red or any other celebratory colour.
Let us remember our hope is through Jesus, the Son of God, risen, ascended, glorified, who has led and who is the only way to the Father.
Let us remember our hope is through Jesus, the Son of God, risen, ascended, glorified, who has led and who is the only way to the Father.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
12 May 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
What a tough week for the world around us; what a challenging week for us.
What a tough week for the world around us; what a challenging week for us.
No matter what your view of the good in the world, there has been something this past week to shake our complacency that our world is all good.
No matter what your view of the good in the world, there has been something this past week to shake our complacency that our world is all good.
It is to people in times in which almost every aspect of the foundations of the world around them were being shaken or destroyed that Jesus spoke and St John wrote in this week’s readings.
It is to people in times in which almost every aspect of the foundations of the world around them were being shaken or destroyed that Jesus spoke and St John wrote in this week’s readings.
Jesus is assuring his disciples (and us) of God’s place in a world that Jesus was about to shake up the next day when he died on a cross. This would challenge forever all that the people around Jesus believed in. St John wrote to believers in a world in which they faced persecution and even death from the people and forces around them because of their faith.
Jesus is assuring his disciples (and us) of God’s place in a world that Jesus was about to shake up the next day when he died on a cross. This would challenge forever all that the people around Jesus believed in. St John wrote to believers in a world in which they faced persecution and even death from the people and forces around them because of their faith.
Into each of these situations Jesus and John wrote to remind and reassure believers of the validity of their faith in God. It is the powers in the world around us who want us to believe that the world is just fine (or will be if we trust in them). As God shakes the world God has created and as God has said it will be shaken, Jesus and John remind us of our sure and certain hope in the eternal God.
Into each of these situations Jesus and John wrote to remind and reassure believers of the validity of their faith in God. It is the powers in the world around us who want us to believe that the world is just fine (or will be if we trust in them). As God shakes the world God has created and as God has said it will be shaken, Jesus and John remind us of our sure and certain hope in the eternal God.
God tells the prophet Isaiah (not in this week’s readings) that God uses the powers of this world to bring darkness so that we might know the treasures of faith and hope in God that we can only find in the darkness. A faith that has never been tested is just growth that is long overdue.
God tells the prophet Isaiah (not in this week’s readings) that God uses the powers of this world to bring darkness so that we might know the treasures of faith and hope in God that we can only find in the darkness. A faith that has never been tested is just growth that is long overdue.
This week, as you contemplate the reality of the darkness and sadness around you, may you both remember how much we really need God and how great God’s love for us is.
This week, as you contemplate the reality of the darkness and sadness around you, may you both remember how much we really need God and how great God’s love for us is.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
5 May 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I’m greatly heartened by the actions of our nation and our community around ANZAC Day.
I’m greatly heartened by the actions of our nation and our community around ANZAC Day.
I have been in contact with many veterans and families this week; this is an emotional time.
I have been in contact with many veterans and families this week; this is an emotional time.
For most veterans, feelings around ANZAC Day are strong but mixed. We do and we want to remember, to not forget the people with whom we have served and those who have suffered, particularly those who have been killed in service of our nation. We do remember and we see their faces, hear their laughter, remember their families.
For most veterans, feelings around ANZAC Day are strong but mixed. We do and we want to remember, to not forget the people with whom we have served and those who have suffered, particularly those who have been killed in service of our nation. We do remember and we see their faces, hear their laughter, remember their families.
But for many of us our minds and our souls do not want to return to the events involved in so much suffering and yet we can not avoid such events if we are to remember the people.
But for many of us our minds and our souls do not want to return to the events involved in so much suffering and yet we can not avoid such events if we are to remember the people.
This is a time with heightened risk of harm for veterans and for those around them.
This is a time with heightened risk of harm for veterans and for those around them.
The risk of suicide is greater as are the risks of accidents due to alcohol consumption. The risks for families of domestic violence and also accidents are increased. Veterans’ families too suffer mental and spiritual health issues as a result of a veteran’s service.
The risk of suicide is greater as are the risks of accidents due to alcohol consumption. The risks for families of domestic violence and also accidents are increased. Veterans’ families too suffer mental and spiritual health issues as a result of a veteran’s service.
We are not all broken but we all suffer. At the core of each person’s service is love. We serve, we do what we have to do in wartime, we suffer, out of love for our nation, for our way of life, and for our families and our mates.
We are not all broken but we all suffer. At the core of each person’s service is love. We serve, we do what we have to do in wartime, we suffer, out of love for our nation, for our way of life, and for our families and our mates.
Our community does ANZAC Day better than most. Our schools, local RSL and community gather to appropriately honour the service of those who have served and suffered. For most who have served this gathering as Australians and this honouring of service and of suffering is all the thanks that we need. We don’t expect understanding but we crave thanks, we want our nation, community and our family and mates to value what we have done; in other words, to love us back.
Our community does ANZAC Day better than most. Our schools, local RSL and community gather to appropriately honour the service of those who have served and suffered. For most who have served this gathering as Australians and this honouring of service and of suffering is all the thanks that we need. We don’t expect understanding but we crave thanks, we want our nation, community and our family and mates to value what we have done; in other words, to love us back.
I’m away next week leading a program called Warrior Welcome Home. It is a program for veterans and families to heal Moral Injury and spiritual wounds. We have found love, the love of family, friends, community, country and of God heals many wounds but often we sabotage this love and we hurt those we love the most. Warrior Welcome Home aims to help veterans learn to let the love of those we love, especially the love of God back in.
I’m away next week leading a program called Warrior Welcome Home. It is a program for veterans and families to heal Moral Injury and spiritual wounds. We have found love, the love of family, friends, community, country and of God heals many wounds but often we sabotage this love and we hurt those we love the most. Warrior Welcome Home aims to help veterans learn to let the love of those we love, especially the love of God back in.
Jesus is the ultimate example of the voluntary suffering of one to prevent the suffering of many. In John’s Gospel Jesus says that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for those they love.
Jesus is the ultimate example of the voluntary suffering of one to prevent the suffering of many. In John’s Gospel Jesus says that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for those they love.
Let us thank God for this love that our service women and men show for us.
Let us thank God for this love that our service women and men show for us.
Rob
25 April 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
What a shocking week! We may be used to hearing and seeing images of violence and massive destruction in other parts of the world; we may shake our heads at the sadness of senseless mass shootings in other counties; we should be distraught at the civilian casualties in the un-declared wars in Ukraine and Gaza but the stabbings in a shopping centre in Bondi Junction and in a church in South West Sydney are very close to home.
What a shocking week! We may be used to hearing and seeing images of violence and massive destruction in other parts of the world; we may shake our heads at the sadness of senseless mass shootings in other counties; we should be distraught at the civilian casualties in the un-declared wars in Ukraine and Gaza but the stabbings in a shopping centre in Bondi Junction and in a church in South West Sydney are very close to home.
The number killed by world standards, fortunately, is very small but the impact is on our sense of security and our feeling of the overall goodness of our little country in the world.
The number killed by world standards, fortunately, is very small but the impact is on our sense of security and our feeling of the overall goodness of our little country in the world.
We must not try to rationalise these by suggesting that the victims were any more evil than the rest of us or that perhaps the Bishop was preaching heresy. Our God and our Bible remind us continually that we have all gone astray from God’s standard; we will all face death and judgement and then by God. These stabbing victims in Sydney were not worse sinners than the rest of us.
We must not try to rationalise these by suggesting that the victims were any more evil than the rest of us or that perhaps the Bishop was preaching heresy. Our God and our Bible remind us continually that we have all gone astray from God’s standard; we will all face death and judgement and then by God. These stabbing victims in Sydney were not worse sinners than the rest of us.
John’s Gospel reminds us that God’s light shines in the darkness and that no darkness has ever overcome God’s light. God offers us his light and life and love, peace and hope in this world and forever.
John’s Gospel reminds us that God’s light shines in the darkness and that no darkness has ever overcome God’s light. God offers us his light and life and love, peace and hope in this world and forever.
As we pray for the victims in Sydney, people who have been killed or injured, those who mourn and grieve, those who struggle with what they have seen or with their experiences of fear, people whose world-view has been shaken, let remember our faith in our God.
As we pray for the victims in Sydney, people who have been killed or injured, those who mourn and grieve, those who struggle with what they have seen or with their experiences of fear, people whose world-view has been shaken, let remember our faith in our God.
We are not to expect to live peaceful, secure, untroubled lives of a certain length, in a certain style; we are to expect the unexpected and to be secure in our sure and certain hope of eternal life in God’s house as God’s beloved children.
We are not to expect to live peaceful, secure, untroubled lives of a certain length, in a certain style; we are to expect the unexpected and to be secure in our sure and certain hope of eternal life in God’s house as God’s beloved children.
As Christians, we know that God has said that there will be darkness in this world. The Bible and particularly Jesus show us that God is with us in the darkness. This Sunday we read Psalm 23 in which David reflects that even when he went through the ‘valley of the shadow of death’ he knew that God was with him, that he need not fear, God was comforting him.
As Christians, we know that God has said that there will be darkness in this world. The Bible and particularly Jesus show us that God is with us in the darkness. This Sunday we read Psalm 23 in which David reflects that even when he went through the ‘valley of the shadow of death’ he knew that God was with him, that he need not fear, God was comforting him.
This Psalm encapsulates God’s message of hope; God does not promise we will see no darkness; rather God promises to be with us to comfort us in even the greatest darkness of this world.
This Psalm encapsulates God’s message of hope; God does not promise we will see no darkness; rather God promises to be with us to comfort us in even the greatest darkness of this world.
I don’t wish pain or sadness or suffering on any of you BUT much more I pray that you may know God’s love, comfort, healing and hope and these we can only find in the darkness. In every darkness which will come upon you, God wants you to know his much greater love.
I don’t wish pain or sadness or suffering on any of you BUT much more I pray that you may know God’s love, comfort, healing and hope and these we can only find in the darkness. In every darkness which will come upon you, God wants you to know his much greater love.
Rob
21 April 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Third Sunday of Easter
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Third Sunday of Easter
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I had the opportunity to share in a clergy discussion group during the week. The presumption, from our diocese, was that we needed them to develop some evangelical resources from a Brisbane Anglican perspective to attract new people to church.
I had the opportunity to share in a clergy discussion group during the week. The presumption, from our diocese, was that we needed them to develop some evangelical resources from a Brisbane Anglican perspective to attract new people to church.
There are of course ‘interesting’ assumptions behind the thoughts of our diocese that I won’t go into here. The feedback from parish clergy was that what was needed wasn’t another evangelism package but rather more resources to help those who are already coming to church. Where are the resources that help us to live as God’s people in Western Brisbane in 2024?
There are of course ‘interesting’ assumptions behind the thoughts of our diocese that I won’t go into here. The feedback from parish clergy was that what was needed wasn’t another evangelism package but rather more resources to help those who are already coming to church. Where are the resources that help us to live as God’s people in Western Brisbane in 2024?
If we follow on from Angela’s very helpful sermon from last Sunday, where are the resources which help us live authentically as God’s people within our families, our workplaces and our community? How will people identify God’s hallmarks in us and our lives?
If we follow on from Angela’s very helpful sermon from last Sunday, where are the resources which help us live authentically as God’s people within our families, our workplaces and our community? How will people identify God’s hallmarks in us and our lives?
Two points were usefully made by the clergy group; new people come to church, new people ask about a relationship with God not because of church leaders but because of those in their families, workplaces and community whose lives they observe. In other words, it’s your job to get people to come to God and perhaps my job to keep them here.
Two points were usefully made by the clergy group; new people come to church, new people ask about a relationship with God not because of church leaders but because of those in their families, workplaces and community whose lives they observe. In other words, it’s your job to get people to come to God and perhaps my job to keep them here.
I’m thinking about my part in this but, we are called to live as disciples of Christ in the world but not of the world. We are called, in this Sundays’ readings, to not love the things of the world. When we do this, in my experience, people ask us, “why?” Our next challenge is to have authentic answers to this, “why?” My answer may well be different to yours.
I’m thinking about my part in this but, we are called to live as disciples of Christ in the world but not of the world. We are called, in this Sundays’ readings, to not love the things of the world. When we do this, in my experience, people ask us, “why?” Our next challenge is to have authentic answers to this, “why?” My answer may well be different to yours.
So, this is the challenge that I’ve given back to our diocese but also a challenge that I’m going to try to address particularly after Easter, Ascension, Pentecost and Trinity.
So, this is the challenge that I’ve given back to our diocese but also a challenge that I’m going to try to address particularly after Easter, Ascension, Pentecost and Trinity.
Jesus the Son of God is risen from the dead; I believe this; Lord God, help me to live this hope!
Jesus the Son of God is risen from the dead; I believe this; Lord God, help me to live this hope!
Rob
14 April 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Second Sunday of Easter
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Second Sunday of Easter
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
It has been wonderful to celebrate the great love of God over the past few weeks, to tell again the old, old story and to worship God in the unique ways that we can only do on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Morning. The story is profound, unique in human history, but the evidence of the witnesses says that it is more than a story.
It has been wonderful to celebrate the great love of God over the past few weeks, to tell again the old, old story and to worship God in the unique ways that we can only do on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Morning. The story is profound, unique in human history, but the evidence of the witnesses says that it is more than a story.
We may be used to a book which is turned into a play and then perhaps a movie and even a musical; each of these can bring new insights and experiences. Some stories are so good that the book is worth re-reading; the musical can be enjoyed more than once and the individual songs many times; some enjoy seeing plays with different actors who have unique interpretations and some great movies are remade.
We may be used to a book which is turned into a play and then perhaps a movie and even a musical; each of these can bring new insights and experiences. Some stories are so good that the book is worth re-reading; the musical can be enjoyed more than once and the individual songs many times; some enjoy seeing plays with different actors who have unique interpretations and some great movies are remade.
The story of God’s love for us is quite different; not only was it foretold thousands of years in advance but God’s love was made real when Jesus lived and died and then was brought back to life again by God to be and to bring and to prove God’s love for us. This story can be re-told in many times and ways and places and languages but it can’t be changed because it really happened.
The story of God’s love for us is quite different; not only was it foretold thousands of years in advance but God’s love was made real when Jesus lived and died and then was brought back to life again by God to be and to bring and to prove God’s love for us. This story can be re-told in many times and ways and places and languages but it can’t be changed because it really happened.
People’s understandable, justified scepticism at hearing that the Son of the Living God had become human and had been through the Easter journey is what the Gospel writers in the Early church are dealing with over the next few weeks. We will hear of Thomas and many others who doubted what they were told. They were right to not believe the unbelievable until God opened their eyes and minds and hearts to God’s unbelievable good news.
People’s understandable, justified scepticism at hearing that the Son of the Living God had become human and had been through the Easter journey is what the Gospel writers in the Early church are dealing with over the next few weeks. We will hear of Thomas and many others who doubted what they were told. They were right to not believe the unbelievable until God opened their eyes and minds and hearts to God’s unbelievable good news.
I hope and pray that we are each able to let the witness of the apostles into our hearts so that we
I hope and pray that we are each able to let the witness of the apostles into our hearts so that we
May come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing [we and those we share this message with] may have life in his name.
May come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing [we and those we share this message with] may have life in his name.
Let us pray that God will again make the reality of his hope and life real to us again!
Let us pray that God will again make the reality of his hope and life real to us again!
Blessed Easter!
Blessed Easter!
Rob
7 April 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Easter Day
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Easter Day
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
The head that once was crowned with thorns and thrown into a grave is now alive and crowned with glory! I want to sing again, ‘Joy to the world.’
The head that once was crowned with thorns and thrown into a grave is now alive and crowned with glory! I want to sing again, ‘Joy to the world.’
Into a world which struggles with the pain and darkness and hopelessness around us, into a world which struggles with the reality that we must all die, Jesus comes to bring and to prove God’s love and life. Our purpose is to live as God’s beloved children in heaven where there will be no suffering, no pain, no tears, no more death. Our true home is God’s house, heaven where we will feel perfectly loved and where we will love perfectly.
Into a world which struggles with the pain and darkness and hopelessness around us, into a world which struggles with the reality that we must all die, Jesus comes to bring and to prove God’s love and life. Our purpose is to live as God’s beloved children in heaven where there will be no suffering, no pain, no tears, no more death. Our true home is God’s house, heaven where we will feel perfectly loved and where we will love perfectly.
The world threw every possible attack at Jesus on Good Friday, even death; the empty tomb, the risen Jesus on Easter morning proves that there is nothing that God can not overcome.
The world threw every possible attack at Jesus on Good Friday, even death; the empty tomb, the risen Jesus on Easter morning proves that there is nothing that God can not overcome.
Our Christian hope is not in Jesus the nice guy, not in Jesus the wise teacher; our hope is in the Jesus the Son of God crucified but now victorious over even death.
Our Christian hope is not in Jesus the nice guy, not in Jesus the wise teacher; our hope is in the Jesus the Son of God crucified but now victorious over even death.
The joy that Jesus brings to the world may start at Christmas with his birth but it is proved, realised when God brings him back to life at Easter.
The joy that Jesus brings to the world may start at Christmas with his birth but it is proved, realised when God brings him back to life at Easter.
Christ has died and Christ has risen and God offers to do the same for those who love him – for those who don’t reject him!
Christ has died and Christ has risen and God offers to do the same for those who love him – for those who don’t reject him!
This journey of Jesus began at Christmas and continues through to his Ascension into heaven, but it is most obvious in the seven days from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday. Jesus lives out God’s love for us. Easter and Jesus rising from his grave to life is very real but so is his journey through betrayal, suffering and death before he defeats sin and death.
This journey of Jesus began at Christmas and continues through to his Ascension into heaven, but it is most obvious in the seven days from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday. Jesus lives out God’s love for us. Easter and Jesus rising from his grave to life is very real but so is his journey through betrayal, suffering and death before he defeats sin and death.
In him is life and the life is the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness and no darkness has ever overcome it.
In him is life and the life is the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness and no darkness has ever overcome it.
Let us rightly praise and thank and worship this God of life; let us share our joy and hope with those around us!
Let us rightly praise and thank and worship this God of life; let us share our joy and hope with those around us!
Blessed Easter!
Blessed Easter!
Rob
31 March 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Lent 6 Reflection Palm Sunday
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Lent 6 Reflection Palm Sunday
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Easter is upon us! It might have been so in our supermarkets for quite a while; hot crossed buns can be sold any time after Christmas and Easter Eggs are available almost as soon as the Valentine’s Day chocolates have moved off the shelves, but the ‘real Easter’ is upon us.
Easter is upon us! It might have been so in our supermarkets for quite a while; hot crossed buns can be sold any time after Christmas and Easter Eggs are available almost as soon as the Valentine’s Day chocolates have moved off the shelves, but the ‘real Easter’ is upon us.
Last Sunday we sang ‘Joy to the World the Lord is come; let Earth receive her king’. It’s a Christmas hymn but appropriate for Palm Sunday. This Sunday, we remember and celebrate Jesus coming into the world, to Jerusalem and being welcomed as hoped for king by cheering crowds. They laid their cloaks on the road for Jesus to ride over and they waved branches in celebration and welcome.
Last Sunday we sang ‘Joy to the World the Lord is come; let Earth receive her king’. It’s a Christmas hymn but appropriate for Palm Sunday. This Sunday, we remember and celebrate Jesus coming into the world, to Jerusalem and being welcomed as hoped for king by cheering crowds. They laid their cloaks on the road for Jesus to ride over and they waved branches in celebration and welcome.
Throughout Lent, which continues until Thursday, throughout Lent we have been looking at how Jesus corrects the misconceptions about God and God’s salvation and God’s promises and what God requires of God’s people. Jesus has not been preaching to the whole world but to those who called themselves the People of God. Palm Sunday and Holy Week continue this message but in an even more dramatic shape.
Throughout Lent, which continues until Thursday, throughout Lent we have been looking at how Jesus corrects the misconceptions about God and God’s salvation and God’s promises and what God requires of God’s people. Jesus has not been preaching to the whole world but to those who called themselves the People of God. Palm Sunday and Holy Week continue this message but in an even more dramatic shape.
God gives us freedom to choose our gods, to choose who we will worship, love, hope in and follow. In Holy Week we see the crowds using this freedom by choosing Jesus as king, messiah, saviour on Sunday and then calling for his death by crucifixion on Friday!
God gives us freedom to choose our gods, to choose who we will worship, love, hope in and follow. In Holy Week we see the crowds using this freedom by choosing Jesus as king, messiah, saviour on Sunday and then calling for his death by crucifixion on Friday!
This journey of Jesus began at Christmas and continues through to his Ascension into heaven, but it is most obvious in the seven days from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday. Jesus lives out God’s love for us. Easter and Jesus rising from his grave to life is very real but so is his journey through betrayal, suffering and death before he defeats sin and death.
This journey of Jesus began at Christmas and continues through to his Ascension into heaven, but it is most obvious in the seven days from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday. Jesus lives out God’s love for us. Easter and Jesus rising from his grave to life is very real but so is his journey through betrayal, suffering and death before he defeats sin and death.
God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.
God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.
I invite you to join us as we travel the Holy Week journey;
I invite you to join us as we travel the Holy Week journey;
- • Palm Sunday at 8:30am – Holy Communion
- • Holy Wednesday 8:30 am – Morning Prayer and Bible discussion
- • Maundy Thursday 5:15 pm – Holy Communion with footwashing
- • Good Friday 8:30am – Ante-communion
- • Holy Saturday (children’s Holy Week craft during the twilight markets)
- • Easter Sunday 6:30 am – New Fire Service (followed by breakfast)
- • Easter Sunday 8:30 am Holy Communion
We will have children’s activities at each service!
We will have children’s activities at each service!
God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.
God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.
Rob
24 March 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Lent 5 Reflection
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Lent 5 Reflection
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I write this with the expectation that I shall soon be munching on a ‘democracy sausage’. This is uniquely Australian; few countries in the world celebrate the democratic election process as we do. We have other unique aspects; compulsory voting is not normal around the world; the privilege of being able to choose our leaders is rare; the freedom to vote without repercussions is very rare.
I write this with the expectation that I shall soon be munching on a ‘democracy sausage’. This is uniquely Australian; few countries in the world celebrate the democratic election process as we do. We have other unique aspects; compulsory voting is not normal around the world; the privilege of being able to choose our leaders is rare; the freedom to vote without repercussions is very rare.
Electoral decisions in Australia are rarely life and death decisions. Usually, we are voting about how to share our nations’ great wealth. Other countries appear to be voting on war-fighting options! As I look around the world, I cherish our freedom to choose and am grateful for our nation’s wealth.
Electoral decisions in Australia are rarely life and death decisions. Usually, we are voting about how to share our nations’ great wealth. Other countries appear to be voting on war-fighting options! As I look around the world, I cherish our freedom to choose and am grateful for our nation’s wealth.
Most candidates and parties in Australia appear to genuinely value us and our vote.
Most candidates and parties in Australia appear to genuinely value us and our vote.
God, similarly, gives each of us freedom to choose who our God will be. The God who created us in His image, who breathed life (or spirit) into us from His own spirit or breath, the God who in Jesus has come to personally rescue us, gives us freedom to choose other gods. God does not conscript anyone into His army; God does not force anyone into His heaven.
God, similarly, gives each of us freedom to choose who our God will be. The God who created us in His image, who breathed life (or spirit) into us from His own spirit or breath, the God who in Jesus has come to personally rescue us, gives us freedom to choose other gods. God does not conscript anyone into His army; God does not force anyone into His heaven.
God wants us to choose him as our personal God, to choose to love him, choose to daily follow his plan but God allows us to choose to go other ways and to love other gods. God is always clear that choosing these other gods and other ways cannot lead us to eternal life with God in heaven. God tells us that we all wander away from God’s path sometimes; the Good News, the Gospel, is that no matter how far away we have wandered (or run) we can always choose afresh to come back to loving God and he promises to help us come back.
God wants us to choose him as our personal God, to choose to love him, choose to daily follow his plan but God allows us to choose to go other ways and to love other gods. God is always clear that choosing these other gods and other ways cannot lead us to eternal life with God in heaven. God tells us that we all wander away from God’s path sometimes; the Good News, the Gospel, is that no matter how far away we have wandered (or run) we can always choose afresh to come back to loving God and he promises to help us come back.
So, this election day, whether or not you have a democracy sausage, whether or not you choose sauce, remember that in your heart you also have to choose who your god will be.
So, this election day, whether or not you have a democracy sausage, whether or not you choose sauce, remember that in your heart you also have to choose who your god will be.
God values you and your vote.
God values you and your vote.
Only those who choose to come back to loving and serving God through Jesus will not perish but will have eternal life.
Only those who choose to come back to loving and serving God through Jesus will not perish but will have eternal life.
My prayer for each of you is that you will choose God, choose life.
My prayer for each of you is that you will choose God, choose life.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
17 March 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Lent 4 Reflection
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Lent 4 Reflection
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
These are difficult times; not just around the world, but also for many in our community our parish and our families. We are right to pray for those in God’s world who are sick or sad, suffering or lonely, starving, dying. We should pray that God will have mercy upon the sick, that oppressors will cease and that those who are crying out for justice do not seek vengeance. Vengeance is mine says the Lord; I will repay.
These are difficult times; not just around the world, but also for many in our community our parish and our families. We are right to pray for those in God’s world who are sick or sad, suffering or lonely, starving, dying. We should pray that God will have mercy upon the sick, that oppressors will cease and that those who are crying out for justice do not seek vengeance. Vengeance is mine says the Lord; I will repay.
I frequently get asked when the world will get better, when this madness will stop and what can we do to make it better? This is the background to Jesus’s encounter with Nicodemus in the Gospel this morning; it’s also the background to the children of Israel’s encounter with the snakes in the wilderness. God does not promise to ‘make the world better’. The world and all that is in it will pass away. God does not promise to fix this world but to rescue us from the destruction in it and of it.
I frequently get asked when the world will get better, when this madness will stop and what can we do to make it better? This is the background to Jesus’s encounter with Nicodemus in the Gospel this morning; it’s also the background to the children of Israel’s encounter with the snakes in the wilderness. God does not promise to ‘make the world better’. The world and all that is in it will pass away. God does not promise to fix this world but to rescue us from the destruction in it and of it.
We, like those before us in the time of Noah and the great flood, like those who followed Moses, like those who survived the various destructions of Jerusalem; we like them are to look for our salvation, our hope and our eternal healing in the saviour or rescuer whom God has sent.
We, like those before us in the time of Noah and the great flood, like those who followed Moses, like those who survived the various destructions of Jerusalem; we like them are to look for our salvation, our hope and our eternal healing in the saviour or rescuer whom God has sent.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in his wonderful face
Look full in his wonderful face
And the things of Earth will grow strangely dim
And the things of Earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of his glory and grace
In the light of his glory and grace
This Lent, may we all return our eyes to Jesus and return our hearts to God’s grace and love.
This Lent, may we all return our eyes to Jesus and return our hearts to God’s grace and love.
This Sunday, we will commission our Parish Council, including our churchwardens, synod representatives, parish nominators, treasurer, secretary and councillors for their work as our representatives. Please regularly pray for Parish Council.
This Sunday, we will commission our Parish Council, including our churchwardens, synod representatives, parish nominators, treasurer, secretary and councillors for their work as our representatives. Please regularly pray for Parish Council.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
10 March 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Lent 3 Reflection
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC - Lent 3 Reflection
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Welcome to March and to Autumn; truly the start of the most pleasant time in beautiful South-East Queensland! I feel like this year is like life with Jesus in Mark’s Gospel. We just finish one thing ‘and immediately’ is the way Mark describes life with Jesus. We have just finished our Annual General Meeting and Annual Reporting to the Diocese and immediately we have the Moggill Markets and immediately after that we have another Sunday and immediately we have another busy week ahead.
Welcome to March and to Autumn; truly the start of the most pleasant time in beautiful South-East Queensland! I feel like this year is like life with Jesus in Mark’s Gospel. We just finish one thing ‘and immediately’ is the way Mark describes life with Jesus. We have just finished our Annual General Meeting and Annual Reporting to the Diocese and immediately we have the Moggill Markets and immediately after that we have another Sunday and immediately we have another busy week ahead.
For me, a week ago I had three busy days in Canberra including a new memorial at the Australian War Memorial, I came back in time to get ready for our AGM and this coming week I am speaking at a conference on the Gold Coast about Moral Injury and healing Spiritual Wounds. It’s not just me, these are examples of the busyness that can swamp us. In the busyness, Jesus took time, often early in the morning, but he took time to pray on his own, . This Lent, in the busyness we too are called to find the time and the space to reconnect, refocus and refresh our relationship with God.
For me, a week ago I had three busy days in Canberra including a new memorial at the Australian War Memorial, I came back in time to get ready for our AGM and this coming week I am speaking at a conference on the Gold Coast about Moral Injury and healing Spiritual Wounds. It’s not just me, these are examples of the busyness that can swamp us. In the busyness, Jesus took time, often early in the morning, but he took time to pray on his own, . This Lent, in the busyness we too are called to find the time and the space to reconnect, refocus and refresh our relationship with God.
We continue our Lenten journey with Wednesday Morning Prayer including a reflection from Bishop Michael Hough. Bishop Michael uses the Sunday readings from Lent as the basis for teaching and challenging us. Friday Evenings have a more reflective approach. I can make the materiel available to any who wish to use it privately.
We continue our Lenten journey with Wednesday Morning Prayer including a reflection from Bishop Michael Hough. Bishop Michael uses the Sunday readings from Lent as the basis for teaching and challenging us. Friday Evenings have a more reflective approach. I can make the materiel available to any who wish to use it privately.
Thank you to all who contributed to our Annual General Meeting last Sunday. I look forward to working with the Parish Council which you have elected.
Thank you to all who contributed to our Annual General Meeting last Sunday. I look forward to working with the Parish Council which you have elected.
Thank you to all who worked so hard to make our market stall within the Moggill Markets such a success. This continues to be one of the many important things we do as a parish. The community engagement, the fundraising and showing people who we are, are important.
Thank you to all who worked so hard to make our market stall within the Moggill Markets such a success. This continues to be one of the many important things we do as a parish. The community engagement, the fundraising and showing people who we are, are important.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
3 March 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC Lent 2
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC Lent 2
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I hope and pray that you are using this time of Lent as a God given opportunity to examine,
I hope and pray that you are using this time of Lent as a God given opportunity to examine,
refocus and strengthen your relationship with God. The reasons for the historic ‘putting
refocus and strengthen your relationship with God. The reasons for the historic ‘putting
aside the things of the world’ for a time has been so that we can better focus on God and
aside the things of the world’ for a time has been so that we can better focus on God and
our relationship with God. It’s hard to focus on our relationship with our God in the midst of
our relationship with God. It’s hard to focus on our relationship with our God in the midst of
the busyness of normal life. Please find or make some time to reflect, refocus and to
the busyness of normal life. Please find or make some time to reflect, refocus and to
recommit on your relationship with God.
recommit on your relationship with God.
Wednesday Morning Prayer will include a reflection from Bishop Michael Hough and
Wednesday Morning Prayer will include a reflection from Bishop Michael Hough and
discussion about this. Bishop Michael uses the Sunday readings from Lent as the basis for
discussion about this. Bishop Michael uses the Sunday readings from Lent as the basis for
teaching and challenging us. Friday Evenings have a more reflective approach. I can make
teaching and challenging us. Friday Evenings have a more reflective approach. I can make
the materiel available to any who wish to use it privately.
the materiel available to any who wish to use it privately.
Our Annual General Meeting will be held after church this Sunday. Please feel free to either
Our Annual General Meeting will be held after church this Sunday. Please feel free to either
attend or free to not attend. We don’t have compulsory voting. Our business is simple, our
attend or free to not attend. We don’t have compulsory voting. Our business is simple, our
reports pre-printed (and brief) ad our elections simple. This is about open-ness and
reports pre-printed (and brief) ad our elections simple. This is about open-ness and
including all on our journey. We have sufficient nominations for all positions but room for
including all on our journey. We have sufficient nominations for all positions but room for
some more! I found the previous Parish Council very effective but some are retiring and this
some more! I found the previous Parish Council very effective but some are retiring and this
is part of us being a community together. Even if you elect a very similar parish council, your
is part of us being a community together. Even if you elect a very similar parish council, your
votes are affirming for those who represent you.
votes are affirming for those who represent you.
I’ve spent a couple of days this week in Canberra at the Australian War Memorial and at
I’ve spent a couple of days this week in Canberra at the Australian War Memorial and at
other events with veterans and families and those who work with them. This has been
other events with veterans and families and those who work with them. This has been
challenging and encouraging and sobering and also a little joyful and hopeful. The requests
challenging and encouraging and sobering and also a little joyful and hopeful. The requests
for chaplain and church support far outstrip the supply of chaplains; it’s one of those ‘nice to
for chaplain and church support far outstrip the supply of chaplains; it’s one of those ‘nice to
be wanted, but how do we find enough to give?’ situations. I’m working on two points:
be wanted, but how do we find enough to give?’ situations. I’m working on two points:
How do we upskill local faith communities (churches like ours) to better support
How do we upskill local faith communities (churches like ours) to better support
veterans and families.
veterans and families.
How do we, individually and as a community, better do as Jesus says in our sentence
How do we, individually and as a community, better do as Jesus says in our sentence
for this morning, take up our cross (or appointed task) and follow Jesus.
for this morning, take up our cross (or appointed task) and follow Jesus.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
25 Feb 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT 18th FEBRUARY 2024.
Dear Friends
Dear Friends
Welcome to Lent! That might sound as counter-cultural to you as ‘Happy Lent’; perhaps Jesus meant it to be confronting. Some translations of the beatitudes in Matthew 5, instead of saying, ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, .. those who mourn, .. the meek,..’ says that these people are ‘Happy’ so in that context may Lent be an opportunity for God to bless you. God has a good purpose for each of us in Lent. We will spend more time thinking about this in church.
Welcome to Lent! That might sound as counter-cultural to you as ‘Happy Lent’; perhaps Jesus meant it to be confronting. Some translations of the beatitudes in Matthew 5, instead of saying, ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, .. those who mourn, .. the meek,..’ says that these people are ‘Happy’ so in that context may Lent be an opportunity for God to bless you. God has a good purpose for each of us in Lent. We will spend more time thinking about this in church.
During Lent we will have two mid-week prayer and reflection opportunities in the church. On Wednesday mornings at 8:30 am we will continue to have a Biblical reflection and discussion within the framework of Morning Prayer. On Friday Evenings, Rev’d Angela will lead a time of quiet reflection and Evening Prayer at 5:15 pm.
During Lent we will have two mid-week prayer and reflection opportunities in the church. On Wednesday mornings at 8:30 am we will continue to have a Biblical reflection and discussion within the framework of Morning Prayer. On Friday Evenings, Rev’d Angela will lead a time of quiet reflection and Evening Prayer at 5:15 pm.
Next Sunday we have our parish Annual General Meeting in the hall following our 8:30 am Service. The required notices are around the church. We hope to keep the reports (including mine) brief; we are required to elect a Parish Council including wardens and synod representatives. In preparation for this I have been completing the statistics required by the Diocese – we have about 48 active volunteers in our parish. That is quite a few more than our average Sunday attendance. 48 volunteers is a wonderful sign of the active involvement of so many people in our church community. We are a very engaged and active church community – some names come up repeatedly but the work of each volunteer is valued and is part of who we are. We also had some new regular worshippers join our church in 2023 (including me) – a little more detail will be in my report. I promise to be brief.
Next Sunday we have our parish Annual General Meeting in the hall following our 8:30 am Service. The required notices are around the church. We hope to keep the reports (including mine) brief; we are required to elect a Parish Council including wardens and synod representatives. In preparation for this I have been completing the statistics required by the Diocese – we have about 48 active volunteers in our parish. That is quite a few more than our average Sunday attendance. 48 volunteers is a wonderful sign of the active involvement of so many people in our church community. We are a very engaged and active church community – some names come up repeatedly but the work of each volunteer is valued and is part of who we are. We also had some new regular worshippers join our church in 2023 (including me) – a little more detail will be in my report. I promise to be brief.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
18 Feb 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
These are ‘interesting times’. February is a busy month for the world around us and also for us as a parish. We have a few more weeks until council elections; every possible sport and other activity appears to be re-commencing for the year; parliaments are back sitting after their break and the wider world seems consumed by elections and wars and terrorism.
These are ‘interesting times’. February is a busy month for the world around us and also for us as a parish. We have a few more weeks until council elections; every possible sport and other activity appears to be re-commencing for the year; parliaments are back sitting after their break and the wider world seems consumed by elections and wars and terrorism.
I’m still greatly saddened by the stabbing death of a 70-year-old grandmother in a shopping centre just over the river from us. The violence that we may recognise from the wider world and even from other Australian cities and towns is right on our doorstep. As Christians and as a church, we are called to remember that Jesus, who is God of God and light of light, came into this world to shine God’s light, to bring God’s life and love and hope, not into a world of light, but into the darkness.
I’m still greatly saddened by the stabbing death of a 70-year-old grandmother in a shopping centre just over the river from us. The violence that we may recognise from the wider world and even from other Australian cities and towns is right on our doorstep. As Christians and as a church, we are called to remember that Jesus, who is God of God and light of light, came into this world to shine God’s light, to bring God’s life and love and hope, not into a world of light, but into the darkness.
This Wednesday we commence Lent. You can give up chocolate or alcohol if you wish but truly, this is supposed to be a time of reflection on our lives and our relationship with God; a time to repent of those things which we find are not what God would have us be or do. Our Parish Annual General Meeting on 25 Feb should also be part of this reflection.
This Wednesday we commence Lent. You can give up chocolate or alcohol if you wish but truly, this is supposed to be a time of reflection on our lives and our relationship with God; a time to repent of those things which we find are not what God would have us be or do. Our Parish Annual General Meeting on 25 Feb should also be part of this reflection.
In church on Sundays in Lent, we will pause our looking at Jesus’s actions, what Jesus did in Mark’s Gospel, and spend time looking at Jesus dealing with the incorrect perceptions that people had about God. Jesus confronts the false views of God that ‘God followers’ had developed about God and worshipping God. That’s coming up!
In church on Sundays in Lent, we will pause our looking at Jesus’s actions, what Jesus did in Mark’s Gospel, and spend time looking at Jesus dealing with the incorrect perceptions that people had about God. Jesus confronts the false views of God that ‘God followers’ had developed about God and worshipping God. That’s coming up!
This Sunday we have, in Mark’s Gospel, what for me, is perhaps the scariest miracle of Jesus. Again, Mark shows us what Jesus did; the message is in Jesus’s actions not lots of words. I’ll save the rest for the sermon.
This Sunday we have, in Mark’s Gospel, what for me, is perhaps the scariest miracle of Jesus. Again, Mark shows us what Jesus did; the message is in Jesus’s actions not lots of words. I’ll save the rest for the sermon.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
11 Feb 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
We are living in ‘interesting times’; the weather around us, in its extent and spread, is unlike anything I can remember. We have had cyclones and floods before and bushfires and heatwaves, but I can’t remember so many spread over such a vast part of our nation.
I have been in touch with various clergy colleagues affected. Two of my chaplains one in Townsville and one on Brisbane’s northside have been affected; they and their families are fine and their houses will recover but it is very unsettling. Throwing out the contents of fridges and freezers because the power has been off for too long, tearing up carpet that stinks and piling thing up on the footpath is dispiriting. I encourage you all to check in on any you know in affected areas. We may be able to do no more than listen; this may be all that is needed.
This month is our reporting and Annual General Meeting, month. I’ve been looking at out attendance figures and, thanks to all of you who come to church so regularly, they are encouraging; if nothing else, we have stopped our decline in numbers. The rest will have to wait for the AGM.
Sunday’s Gospel passage from Mark 1 has Jesus visiting Peter’s home. Once again, the lessons are in Jesus’s actions, and we will look at what Jesus did when he made a ‘home visit’. Here in Peter’s house, we see Jesus being involved in and bringing God’s love into the realities of our normal lives.
My thanks to everyone involved in the Moggill Markets on Saturday. It certainly was warm and humid enough! So nice to have the church grounds looking lovely after the working bee last weekend.
May you know the love of God in the reality of your normal lives.
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
4 February 2024
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Writing this first letter of the year at the end of January feels a bit like Mark’s Gospel – in both cases we are at the beginning of a year but are already in the midst of the action.
So, THANK YOU (that’s a very, big thankyou) to everyone who turned up yesterday to help in our working bee outside and inside the church. It was very hot but very successful with over 20 people involved. Thanks also to those who turned up a day early to get a start on the mowing; thanks for the breakfast.
It was great, last Sunday, to see so many back from everywhere and there’s some excitement (and a lot more traffic) now that schools are also back.
The month ahead of us is already busy:
· next weekend is Moggill Markets – our first opportunity to engage with our local community at ‘our place’;
· 14 February is Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent;
· Our Annual General Meeting will be held after church on Sunday 25 February
This Sunday we continue following Jesus in Mark Chapter 1; again it’s about what we see Jesus doing rather than any profound words. 2000 years ago and today, people may have tried to avoid Jesus’s words but it’s almost impossible to ignore what Jesus does.
St Mark is inviting us to judge Jesus as we would a book or a pudding or a house or rally anything, not by the cover but by the content. It was the reality of Jesus rather than His words which challenged 2000 years ago; it should be the reality of God at work in our lives which challenges the world around us today.
Do people see God at work in our lives?
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
28th January 2024.
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Blessed New Year! This is our Summer Edition of GNT; it will largely be unchanged for the three weeks of Summer Holidays. Our Services on Sunday morning and Wednesday morning continue as normal through January.
Blessed New Year! This is our Summer Edition of GNT; it will largely be unchanged for the three weeks of Summer Holidays. Our Services on Sunday morning and Wednesday morning continue as normal through January.
A ‘new year’ is an interesting concept for those of us who follow God rather than the world. We follow God who is beyond time, who made time and for whom a thousand years are like a day and a day like a thousand years, but we live in a world which decides much around us including years. The seasons and the time it takes for our planet to make a lap around the sun are real but who decided that the 1st of January should begin a year? Nevertheless, a time for new beginnings and some reflection is useful.
A ‘new year’ is an interesting concept for those of us who follow God rather than the world. We follow God who is beyond time, who made time and for whom a thousand years are like a day and a day like a thousand years, but we live in a world which decides much around us including years. The seasons and the time it takes for our planet to make a lap around the sun are real but who decided that the 1st of January should begin a year? Nevertheless, a time for new beginnings and some reflection is useful.
Our church begins its year on Advent Sunday and this year we have the year of Mark’s Gospel but in reality Australia appears to begin our year after Australia Day. I’m not with you for the next three Sundays but you are in the loving hands of Rev’d Angela and Bishop Rob. I look forward to being back for the Sunday before Australia Day.
Our church begins its year on Advent Sunday and this year we have the year of Mark’s Gospel but in reality Australia appears to begin our year after Australia Day. I’m not with you for the next three Sundays but you are in the loving hands of Rev’d Angela and Bishop Rob. I look forward to being back for the Sunday before Australia Day.
I have very much enjoyed my past year as your Locum-tenes, Part-time, Priest-in-charge and look forward to the coming year following wherever God leads. On the last Sunday of our church year, I suggested we should evaluate ourselves, mark our report card on the basis of LOVE UP.
I have very much enjoyed my past year as your Locum-tenes, Part-time, Priest-in-charge and look forward to the coming year following wherever God leads. On the last Sunday of our church year, I suggested we should evaluate ourselves, mark our report card on the basis of LOVE UP.
Love – have we loved the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and loved our neighbours as ourselves – all the time? Of course we haven’t achieved this; I pray for God’s forgiveness when we have failed but this is our parish aim – Love God. We also need to reflect often how much God loves us!
Love – have we loved the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and loved our neighbours as ourselves – all the time? Of course we haven’t achieved this; I pray for God’s forgiveness when we have failed but this is our parish aim – Love God. We also need to reflect often how much God loves us!
Obey – Our God has a perfect plan for each of us within His plan; the outcome is always God’s glory; Jesus’s call to each of His disciples, to each of us is “Follow me.” God calls us to obey His call, to obey.
Obey – Our God has a perfect plan for each of us within His plan; the outcome is always God’s glory; Jesus’s call to each of His disciples, to each of us is “Follow me.” God calls us to obey His call, to obey.
Votive – this really means pray. God calls us to pray to Him without ceasing; we are to take everything to God in prayer but also as above, we are to listen to God in prayer. Prayer is our way of aligning our hopes, dreams, aspirations, actions – our love with God’s perfect plan.
Votive – this really means pray. God calls us to pray to Him without ceasing; we are to take everything to God in prayer but also as above, we are to listen to God in prayer. Prayer is our way of aligning our hopes, dreams, aspirations, actions – our love with God’s perfect plan.
Every – we are to do these three everytime, everywhere and about everything.
Every – we are to do these three everytime, everywhere and about everything.
Use – God wants us to use the gifts that He has given us but also His power and His leading for God’s purposes.
Use – God wants us to use the gifts that He has given us but also His power and His leading for God’s purposes.
Praise – We are to praise God all of the time. My grandchildren love singing Colin Buchanan’s song ‘My God is so big, so strong and mighty, there’s nothing my God can not do.” Once we remember this (daily) we can see that God is using even the darkest of times for His eternal glory.
Praise – We are to praise God all of the time. My grandchildren love singing Colin Buchanan’s song ‘My God is so big, so strong and mighty, there’s nothing my God can not do.” Once we remember this (daily) we can see that God is using even the darkest of times for His eternal glory.
LOVE UP. This will be my aim personally and for St Michael’s this coming year. I look forward to seeing where God will take us as we love and follow Him this coming year.
LOVE UP. This will be my aim personally and for St Michael’s this coming year. I look forward to seeing where God will take us as we love and follow Him this coming year.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
Rob
31 December 2023
31 December 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Joy to the world, the Lord, the Saviour, the Rescuer is come!
Joy to the world, the Lord, the Saviour, the Rescuer is come!
Sadly, this year as it was 2000 years ago He has come to his own, to those who were made
Sadly, this year as it was 2000 years ago He has come to his own, to those who were made
through Him and most will receive Him not. But to all who will receive him He has brought
through Him and most will receive Him not. But to all who will receive him He has brought
rescue, peace with God, eternal hope and God’s perfect love.
rescue, peace with God, eternal hope and God’s perfect love.
No one was saved by Jesus that first Christmas, but God’s rescue of the human race had
No one was saved by Jesus that first Christmas, but God’s rescue of the human race had
begun. Jesus healed no one when He was born, that came about 30 years later, but hope of
begun. Jesus healed no one when He was born, that came about 30 years later, but hope of
salvation and the reality of God’s personal love had been born into this world.
salvation and the reality of God’s personal love had been born into this world.
God revealed His love to a peasant girl and to shepherds and to foreigners. God’s light and
God revealed His love to a peasant girl and to shepherds and to foreigners. God’s light and
love and life shone through to those in darkness!
love and life shone through to those in darkness!
That first Christmas hate for, and fear of God were also very evident.
That first Christmas hate for, and fear of God were also very evident.
This weekend is complicated; on Sunday morning we will think of Mary the young mother of
This weekend is complicated; on Sunday morning we will think of Mary the young mother of
Jesus; on Christmas Eve we will re-enact Jesus’s birth and on Christmas Morning we will
Jesus; on Christmas Eve we will re-enact Jesus’s birth and on Christmas Morning we will
celebrate God’s great love and our hope.
celebrate God’s great love and our hope.
May you know God’s great personal love for you and your family this Christmas.
May you know God’s great personal love for you and your family this Christmas.
I shall be away for three Sundays after Christmas (for a holiday and a family wedding).
I shall be away for three Sundays after Christmas (for a holiday and a family wedding).
We will have our usual Sunday morning services (thanks Rev’d Angella and Bishop Rob) and
We will have our usual Sunday morning services (thanks Rev’d Angella and Bishop Rob) and
we will continue to have mid-week Morning Prayer throughout January.
we will continue to have mid-week Morning Prayer throughout January.
May God’s light and love and hope be born afresh in your hearts and lives the Christmas;
May God’s light and love and hope be born afresh in your hearts and lives the Christmas;
may you know the joy which has been born as your hope.
may you know the joy which has been born as your hope.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
24 December 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 17 December 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 17 December 2023
Dear Friends,
Christmas may not be quite here but holidays certainly are. Yes, it’s more stressful for parents juggling everything but there is a youthful energy and excitement all around us. Whilst I love the brightness that I see all around in shopping centers and even decorated houses and trees along the roadside; it is hard to find much that speaks of Jesus; hard to see anyone putting their hope in God.
It was into a world such as this that the Son of God broke or smashed his way in from heaven. Jesus comes personally to bring and to be God’s hope. Israel and Judah were occupied by the Romans; power rested with the Army who supported a Roman Governor. Ordinary people were struggling financially under the Roman tax burden and burdens imposed by the Jewish religious authorities.
There were many offers of hope. The Romans offered the Pax Romana, the absence of war within the Empire. The religious authorities offered peace with God if you could pay your temple tax and could provide the appropriate animals to be sacrificed. Armed gangs offered freedom if you joined their armed rebellion.
Today, we (or our children or grandchildren) are similarly stressed and pressured; there are many offers of hope apparent. I don’t need any more offers of Christmas joy sent to me from unsolicited text messages or emails, no more Christmas sales, no more movies trying to convince me that a perfect Christmas is a happy family in a snow-covered house with a large roast turkey dinner. Perhaps in this heat a snow-covered house for Christmas has some appeal but, let’s not go there.
This Advent, as you prepare for Christmas, please think about from whence you are hoping that your love, joy and peace will come.
God is sending, Jesus is personally bringing and being, God’s joy into our world; joy breaks in at Christmas but only those who are looking for it, whose hearts long for it and whose lives have time for God’s joy will find it.
Let every heart (and life) prepare him room and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven, and heaven and nature sing.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
17 December 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 26 November 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 26 November 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
This Sunday is like the Church’s New Year’s Eve; perhaps you want to view it as like a
This Sunday is like the Church’s New Year’s Eve; perhaps you want to view it as like a
graduation ceremony; perhaps it’s a relief to have made it through the year. Although I love
graduation ceremony; perhaps it’s a relief to have made it through the year. Although I love
Christmas and Advent, I want to encourage us to not jump ahead too quickly. Before we get
Christmas and Advent, I want to encourage us to not jump ahead too quickly. Before we get
to God’s incarnation, God’s personal birth; I want to explore the hopes and fears of all the
to God’s incarnation, God’s personal birth; I want to explore the hopes and fears of all the
years and the joy of the world in Christ the King.
years and the joy of the world in Christ the King.
Our readings aren’t apparently regal or victorious so we will see what God is offering after a
Our readings aren’t apparently regal or victorious so we will see what God is offering after a
whole year journeying with St Matthew’s Gospel.
whole year journeying with St Matthew’s Gospel.
Next week Advent Sunday, we commence our new church year and a year in which we will
Next week Advent Sunday, we commence our new church year and a year in which we will
follow Mark’s Gospel. Mark is the short, sharp, all action Gospel and I look forward to it but
follow Mark’s Gospel. Mark is the short, sharp, all action Gospel and I look forward to it but
Matthew is a well considered Gospel written for a church struggling to survive in a modern
Matthew is a well considered Gospel written for a church struggling to survive in a modern
(Roman) world.
(Roman) world.
This Sunday, now Christ the King but formerly the Sunday Next Before Advent gives an Auld
This Sunday, now Christ the King but formerly the Sunday Next Before Advent gives an Auld
Lang Syne opportunity which can be helpful but better is ‘so where to from here, what now,
Lang Syne opportunity which can be helpful but better is ‘so where to from here, what now,
and how?’ If you are looking for Jesus commissioning of the church for the future, we
and how?’ If you are looking for Jesus commissioning of the church for the future, we
covered that after Ascension (Matthew 28:16-20), rather, our church ends with a statement
covered that after Ascension (Matthew 28:16-20), rather, our church ends with a statement
about ‘When Jesus comes in all his glory with all the angels with him, then he will sit on the
about ‘When Jesus comes in all his glory with all the angels with him, then he will sit on the
throne of his glory.’ Ascension was about life after Jesus left the Earth; this is about life
throne of his glory.’ Ascension was about life after Jesus left the Earth; this is about life
after we leave this Earth, eternal heaven or eternal hell.
after we leave this Earth, eternal heaven or eternal hell.
May you know the hope of eternal life to which God has called you and Jesus made possible.
May you know the hope of eternal life to which God has called you and Jesus made possible.
Grace and peace and hope and joy
Grace and peace and hope and joy
Rob
Rob
26 November 2023
26 November 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 19 November 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 19 November 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I was chatting with one of my grandsons; he asked me questions about heaven. He liked the answer that Jesus says that he has gone to prepare a room for each of us in God’s house and he was sure it was going to be a nice room. He asked how Jesus would comeback again to get us and so we talked about Jesus coming back down from the clouds just the same way that he left rising up into the clouds. Then he told me that God wrote the Bible to tell us things.
I was chatting with one of my grandsons; he asked me questions about heaven. He liked the answer that Jesus says that he has gone to prepare a room for each of us in God’s house and he was sure it was going to be a nice room. He asked how Jesus would comeback again to get us and so we talked about Jesus coming back down from the clouds just the same way that he left rising up into the clouds. Then he told me that God wrote the Bible to tell us things.
I wonder if we are listening.
I wonder if we are listening.
God is telling us things that are relevant to our current national and world situation in each of our readings this Sunday.
God is telling us things that are relevant to our current national and world situation in each of our readings this Sunday.
In Judges 4, we read that it was only after the people of Israel had been cruelly oppressed by Jabin and Sisera for 20 years that they cried to the Lord for help … and the Lord rescued them. In another conversation this week I was asked what we Australians should be doing about the Israel/Gaza situation. At Government and at an individual level we can do nothing effective; none of our protests or diplomatic efforts or our positioning of RAAF aircraft make any substantive difference. It saddens me that people are not crying to the Lord for help.
In Judges 4, we read that it was only after the people of Israel had been cruelly oppressed by Jabin and Sisera for 20 years that they cried to the Lord for help … and the Lord rescued them. In another conversation this week I was asked what we Australians should be doing about the Israel/Gaza situation. At Government and at an individual level we can do nothing effective; none of our protests or diplomatic efforts or our positioning of RAAF aircraft make any substantive difference. It saddens me that people are not crying to the Lord for help.
1 Thessalonians 5, our Epistle for the day, begins with a sentence about dates and times for the end times. Our Gospel passage speaks of a wealthy man going on a journey and entrusting his wealth to his servants but then he eventually comes back. Jesus has gone on a journey, has given us some of God’s wealth but, he will come back.
1 Thessalonians 5, our Epistle for the day, begins with a sentence about dates and times for the end times. Our Gospel passage speaks of a wealthy man going on a journey and entrusting his wealth to his servants but then he eventually comes back. Jesus has gone on a journey, has given us some of God’s wealth but, he will come back.
I wonder if we are listening.
I wonder if we are listening.
Grace and peace and hope,
Grace and peace and hope,
Rob
19 Nov 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 12 November 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 12 November 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Yesterday, 11 November was Remembrance Day, the 105th anniversary of the end of WW I. This war was so shocking that it was called the war to end all wars. The first Remembrance Day, then Armistice Day when the guns fell silent at 11:00 am was a day of enormous pain, grief and sadness but also of great hope. These hopes were individual and personal but also collective almost universal. Sadly, again this year, as we remember wars of the past, we are surrounded by images of the realities of wars of the present day.
Yesterday, 11 November was Remembrance Day, the 105th anniversary of the end of WW I. This war was so shocking that it was called the war to end all wars. The first Remembrance Day, then Armistice Day when the guns fell silent at 11:00 am was a day of enormous pain, grief and sadness but also of great hope. These hopes were individual and personal but also collective almost universal. Sadly, again this year, as we remember wars of the past, we are surrounded by images of the realities of wars of the present day.
Defence Sunday in our Anglican church is the Sunday closest to Remembrance Day; all Anglicans are encouraged to remember and to pray for those who serve in our Defence Forces today.
Defence Sunday in our Anglican church is the Sunday closest to Remembrance Day; all Anglicans are encouraged to remember and to pray for those who serve in our Defence Forces today.
We live in a community with 4 times the national average of serving ADF members and veterans and of course their families. It was a privilege to be part of our own community Remembrance Day Service at the War Memorial at Bellbowrie yesterday; encouraging that our community does remember, so good to see young Army cadets next to elderly veterans.
We live in a community with 4 times the national average of serving ADF members and veterans and of course their families. It was a privilege to be part of our own community Remembrance Day Service at the War Memorial at Bellbowrie yesterday; encouraging that our community does remember, so good to see young Army cadets next to elderly veterans.
Yesterday we heard a community reflection, a good one, from our local RSL President. Defence Sunday in church is our opportunity as a Christian community to remember, to reflect from a Biblical and Christian perspective and to both thank and pray to God.
Yesterday we heard a community reflection, a good one, from our local RSL President. Defence Sunday in church is our opportunity as a Christian community to remember, to reflect from a Biblical and Christian perspective and to both thank and pray to God.
Anzac Day is our day to reflect on the courage, love and self-sacrificing service of those sailors, soldiers and aviators who serve in our name, serve for us. As a nation, we are appropriately grateful for their service and, despite the great sadness of war, proud of what they do – Australians fight fair and hard with compassion and mercy. Remembrance Day is about bringing them home.
Anzac Day is our day to reflect on the courage, love and self-sacrificing service of those sailors, soldiers and aviators who serve in our name, serve for us. As a nation, we are appropriately grateful for their service and, despite the great sadness of war, proud of what they do – Australians fight fair and hard with compassion and mercy. Remembrance Day is about bringing them home.
Going to war hurts; there are obvious physical injuries and we are learning of the mental wounds such as Post-traumatic Stress Disorder but spiritual wounds like Moral Injury – it is these that lead to suicide.
Going to war hurts; there are obvious physical injuries and we are learning of the mental wounds such as Post-traumatic Stress Disorder but spiritual wounds like Moral Injury – it is these that lead to suicide.
Defence Sunday is our opportunity to think of and commit to the hard work of bringing our service men and women home to our nation, our community and our families. Our Bible and particularly Jesus speak directly to wounded veterans. What can we as a small local church do to bring our veterans home?
Defence Sunday is our opportunity to think of and commit to the hard work of bringing our service men and women home to our nation, our community and our families. Our Bible and particularly Jesus speak directly to wounded veterans. What can we as a small local church do to bring our veterans home?
As we remember and thank God for those who have served; let us look at what we can do to bring God’s healing love to those who need it; let us pray for those who serve in our name today.
As we remember and thank God for those who have served; let us look at what we can do to bring God’s healing love to those who need it; let us pray for those who serve in our name today.
Anglican Focus have published a Remembrance Day Reflection that I wrote. The internet link is
Anglican Focus have published a Remembrance Day Reflection that I wrote. The internet link is
(Copies are available at the back of the church)
(Copies are available at the back of the church)
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
12 November 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 5 November 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 5 November 2023
Dear Friends,
Welcome to our Sunday when we celebrate ‘All Saints’ which in ancient times was called ‘All Hallows’. For me this is a celebration of our relationship with God (and if people can hand out chocolate the night before All Hallows Day on ‘All Hallows E’en’ then we certainly should be able to celebrate our relationship with God with chocolate.)
I’m not a great fan of the official list of saints. I don’t doubt that those who are so recognised deserve it but I think God has a much, much, much bigger list than the various churches have come up with.
If saints are people who love and follow Jesus then what does that mean for each of us?
This Sunday we will celebrate the relationships that saints have with God; we will sing and give thanks to God for the lives of, ‘.. all the saints, who from their labours rest.’ We will check to see if our hopes are reflected in the lives of those who we regard as saints.
I would rather call this Sunday, ‘All Hopes’!
May we all learn from the lives and witness of the Christian saints who have gone before us and celebrate those who live around us.
Grace and peace and hope and love and joy
Rob
5 Nov 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 29 October 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 29 October 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Much of the time in our lives we get to focus on one thing at a time. I loved it when the
Much of the time in our lives we get to focus on one thing at a time. I loved it when the
Matildas performance at the world cup seemed to dominate our national consciousness.
Matildas performance at the world cup seemed to dominate our national consciousness.
This week, things that might once have been standout features, such as an Australian Prime
This week, things that might once have been standout features, such as an Australian Prime
Minister being hosted by a US President at the White House, have to compete for our
Minister being hosted by a US President at the White House, have to compete for our
attention with the crisis in the Middle- East (which is competing with the war in Ukraine)
attention with the crisis in the Middle- East (which is competing with the war in Ukraine)
and of course the realities of our lives including inflation and the violence and murder
and of course the realities of our lives including inflation and the violence and murder
around us.
around us.
I love having all of my children and grand children around me, but the reality is that I’m at
I love having all of my children and grand children around me, but the reality is that I’m at
my best when I focus on one thing and one person at a time; it is not so for God. Our God
my best when I focus on one thing and one person at a time; it is not so for God. Our God
has complete focus on us and our issues all of the time. God has the capacity for a personal
has complete focus on us and our issues all of the time. God has the capacity for a personal
relationship with billions and billions and billions of people all at the same time and all of
relationship with billions and billions and billions of people all at the same time and all of
the wars in the world and all of our personal and local crises. God loves each of us
the wars in the world and all of our personal and local crises. God loves each of us
personally, always. God is not a ‘part-time God’ or a part-time lover distracted by other
personally, always. God is not a ‘part-time God’ or a part-time lover distracted by other
people or issues. Our God isn’t distracted from listening to or attending to us by the latest
people or issues. Our God isn’t distracted from listening to or attending to us by the latest
text message or mobile phone call.
text message or mobile phone call.
God wants our response to him to be the same; God expects us to love him without
God wants our response to him to be the same; God expects us to love him without
distraction all of the time with all that we are.
distraction all of the time with all that we are.
It is a great privilege to welcome the Rev’d Simon Kim as our preacher this week. Simon is a
It is a great privilege to welcome the Rev’d Simon Kim as our preacher this week. Simon is a
relatively new Brisbane Anglican priest but he has been in Christian ministry in South Korea
relatively new Brisbane Anglican priest but he has been in Christian ministry in South Korea
and Brisbane for decades; it is nice that St David’s Chelmer have given him a Sunday off to
and Brisbane for decades; it is nice that St David’s Chelmer have given him a Sunday off to
come to join us.
come to join us.
I close with a reminder that the end of our church year is nearly upon us; our final women’s
I close with a reminder that the end of our church year is nearly upon us; our final women’s
and men’s breakfasts and parish Council are now in ‘coming events’. We will celebrate ‘All
and men’s breakfasts and parish Council are now in ‘coming events’. We will celebrate ‘All
Saints’ on Sunday 5 November. Advent Sunday our Christian ‘ New Year’ will be Sunday 3
Saints’ on Sunday 5 November. Advent Sunday our Christian ‘ New Year’ will be Sunday 3
December and we will commence promoting our Christmas Services next week.
December and we will commence promoting our Christmas Services next week.
May you love the God who loves you always and everywhere, with all that you are always.
May you love the God who loves you always and everywhere, with all that you are always.
Rob
Rob
29 Oct 2023
29 Oct 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 22October 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 22October 2023
Dear Friends,
What daunting times these are; the world that we thought we knew and in which we thought we could trust seems to be collapsing in around us. I find the things happening in our world, and in our nation and in our community, our diocese and even our own families and lives very challenging – so challenging that it can be hard to see where God is in all of this.
We had a helpful Bible Study discussion as part of Morning Prayer last Wednesday looking at Joshua as a focus on the Israel and Gaza but also on Matthew 24 looking at world events.
The disciples were shocked and probably dismayed when Jesus told them that the temple, Solomon’s temple, in which they trusted would be destroyed. Jesus warned them of wars to come and of natural disasters and of course they Jesus was about to show that even he was going to suffer and die to open the way to heaven.
I suspect that God shakes the world around us, our church, even into our own families and our own lives so that we learn not to hope or trust the love of anything or anyone in this world ahead of God. God shows us again and again and again that his light shines in the darkness (even the deepest darkness or the valley of the shadow of death) and no darkness has or will overcome God’s light if we look for it.
Part of me wishes that I could offer everyone God’s richest blessings of good times and great love in this world; the Bible only lets me do so if I also point to a God who shows his love to the outcasts and the sick and the lame and those who have suffered in this world.
Matthew West sings of a ‘broken and beautiful gone mad and magical, awfully wonderful life,’ in God.
I am so very grateful for the love and the blessings that I have; I have much and many; but these should point me to God and show me the nature of God (for God is love and God longs to bless us in the heavenly places) not suffice in place of God.
All my hope on God is founded; he is my eternal source of hope; his light shines in the darkness – no matter how dark.
Grace and peace and hope and joy,
Rob
22 Oct 23
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 15 October 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 15 October 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
What a joy our celebration last Sunday of the Feast of St Michael and All Angels was. Perhaps I didn’t choose the most singable hymns but everything else was ‘pretty great’. Someone commented after the service that The Rev’d Dr Ruth Mathieson preached the best St Michael and All Angels sermon ever! It was certainly the best that I have heard; I took a page of notes. For any who missed it the text is available on our website.
What a joy our celebration last Sunday of the Feast of St Michael and All Angels was. Perhaps I didn’t choose the most singable hymns but everything else was ‘pretty great’. Someone commented after the service that The Rev’d Dr Ruth Mathieson preached the best St Michael and All Angels sermon ever! It was certainly the best that I have heard; I took a page of notes. For any who missed it the text is available on our website.
The new processional cross has turned out to be even better that I had hoped. Angela did a great job ‘lifting high the cross’, including not hitting any of the ceiling fans on the way in or out of church. Many who have seen the cross, including our bishop, have remarked very positively on its beauty (lovely wood, craftsmanship) and its uniqueness. If you would like a closer look or touch, the cross now lives in the sanctuary.
The new processional cross has turned out to be even better that I had hoped. Angela did a great job ‘lifting high the cross’, including not hitting any of the ceiling fans on the way in or out of church. Many who have seen the cross, including our bishop, have remarked very positively on its beauty (lovely wood, craftsmanship) and its uniqueness. If you would like a closer look or touch, the cross now lives in the sanctuary.
Sadly, so very sadly, this past week will be more remembered for the devastating events in Israel and Gaza. This continuation of what these peoples have been doing to each other for thousands of years is much more stark in the TV age. I don’t see this as right against wrong rather it is wrong against even more wrong. Thousands have already died, many more have been injured and countless families are now homeless and without power or water. Please join me in praying that God will have mercy on the innocent civilian families who can not escape the violence around them.
Sadly, so very sadly, this past week will be more remembered for the devastating events in Israel and Gaza. This continuation of what these peoples have been doing to each other for thousands of years is much more stark in the TV age. I don’t see this as right against wrong rather it is wrong against even more wrong. Thousands have already died, many more have been injured and countless families are now homeless and without power or water. Please join me in praying that God will have mercy on the innocent civilian families who can not escape the violence around them.
At such times we should take time to value our own families and the peace within which God has granted us to live. Let us remember again how blest we are.
At such times we should take time to value our own families and the peace within which God has granted us to live. Let us remember again how blest we are.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
15 October 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 8 October 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 8 October 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
It’s been a packed but pretty wonderful week. I love public holidays and I enjoyed the King’s Birthday break but of course the payback is that we squeeze five days of work into four. The Moggill Road traffic is now back to normal after school holidays
It’s been a packed but pretty wonderful week. I love public holidays and I enjoyed the King’s Birthday break but of course the payback is that we squeeze five days of work into four. The Moggill Road traffic is now back to normal after school holidays
Our special service in St John’s Cathedral last Tuesday with Bishop John Roundhill blessing our new processional cross was momentous. Ten of us were able to join the cathedral staff and bishop in the South Chapel and amongst many positives was the cathedral staff remarking how nice it was for cathedral and a parish to be able to connect in this way. No one could recall a similar blessing. Warren Muller’s workmanship was much admired. I hope and pray that this cross is a frequent reminder of Jesus’s call for us to follow his journey through the cross to heaven.
Our special service in St John’s Cathedral last Tuesday with Bishop John Roundhill blessing our new processional cross was momentous. Ten of us were able to join the cathedral staff and bishop in the South Chapel and amongst many positives was the cathedral staff remarking how nice it was for cathedral and a parish to be able to connect in this way. No one could recall a similar blessing. Warren Muller’s workmanship was much admired. I hope and pray that this cross is a frequent reminder of Jesus’s call for us to follow his journey through the cross to heaven.
Thank you to all who have worked so hard to make our Moggill Markets such a success. All aspects are important including grounds preparation and maintenance as well as our cake stall and our Church Children’s Craft.
Thank you to all who have worked so hard to make our Moggill Markets such a success. All aspects are important including grounds preparation and maintenance as well as our cake stall and our Church Children’s Craft.
Finally, a warm welcome to The Rev’d Dr Ruth Mathieson, Principal of St Francis College. It is a privilege for us to have Ruth here to help us celebrate the feast of St Michael and All Angels. I hope to also hear from Ruth over coffee about her hopes and plans for theological education and ministry training in our diocese.
Finally, a warm welcome to The Rev’d Dr Ruth Mathieson, Principal of St Francis College. It is a privilege for us to have Ruth here to help us celebrate the feast of St Michael and All Angels. I hope to also hear from Ruth over coffee about her hopes and plans for theological education and ministry training in our diocese.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
8 October 2023
8 October 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 1 October 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 1 October 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Next Sunday we celebrate the Feast of St Michael and All Angels, our Patronal Festival.
Next Sunday we celebrate the Feast of St Michael and All Angels, our Patronal Festival.
I’m delighted that the Principal of St Francis College, The Rev’d Dr Ruth Mathieson is coming to preach at our 8:30 Service. I’m delighted for many reasons; Rev’d Angela is a recent graduate of St Francis; I began my theological studies there in 1990 and the college is important within the Anglican Church of Australia, within our diocese and therefore to us.
I’m delighted that the Principal of St Francis College, The Rev’d Dr Ruth Mathieson is coming to preach at our 8:30 Service. I’m delighted for many reasons; Rev’d Angela is a recent graduate of St Francis; I began my theological studies there in 1990 and the college is important within the Anglican Church of Australia, within our diocese and therefore to us.
I delighted to have such an eminent visitor and to be able to maintain our connections with St Francis College but, I’m particularly pleased that it will be Ruth preaching on angels rather than me.
I delighted to have such an eminent visitor and to be able to maintain our connections with St Francis College but, I’m particularly pleased that it will be Ruth preaching on angels rather than me.
Our patronal festival is the opportunity for us to reflect upon who we are and who God is calling us to be. We should celebrate and be grateful for our history; we should take time to look at who we are and we should try to listen to who God is calling us to be.
Our patronal festival is the opportunity for us to reflect upon who we are and who God is calling us to be. We should celebrate and be grateful for our history; we should take time to look at who we are and we should try to listen to who God is calling us to be.
Our reflection should be cognitive, spiritual but also physical. There are many things about our unknowable God that we can’t understand in this world. Through the power of God’s Holy Spirit, we connect to God in many ways. This connection often involves music, often reading God’s word, prayer and worship but the physical is also important; this is why Jesus gave us physical sacraments.
Our reflection should be cognitive, spiritual but also physical. There are many things about our unknowable God that we can’t understand in this world. Through the power of God’s Holy Spirit, we connect to God in many ways. This connection often involves music, often reading God’s word, prayer and worship but the physical is also important; this is why Jesus gave us physical sacraments.
As part of our celebration, we welcome the gift of a processional cross. The cross has been donated by Bronwen Thomas as a memorial. It has been made by Warren Muller and it will be blessed for us by Bishop John Roundhill in St John’s Cathedral on Tuesday 3 October at 1230..
As part of our celebration, we welcome the gift of a processional cross. The cross has been donated by Bronwen Thomas as a memorial. It has been made by Warren Muller and it will be blessed for us by Bishop John Roundhill in St John’s Cathedral on Tuesday 3 October at 1230..
The symbolism is wonderful and multi-facetted and fittingly reflects past, present and future; it represents our place locally, in our diocese and in God’s kingdom; it is a wonderful piece of God’s wood which has been shaped and will be blest so that it may be a symbol for us of God’s love and hope.
The symbolism is wonderful and multi-facetted and fittingly reflects past, present and future; it represents our place locally, in our diocese and in God’s kingdom; it is a wonderful piece of God’s wood which has been shaped and will be blest so that it may be a symbol for us of God’s love and hope.
I hope people are able to join us in the cathedral on Tuesday.
I hope people are able to join us in the cathedral on Tuesday.
I pray we will use this week to remember and reflect and listen.
I pray we will use this week to remember and reflect and listen.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
1 October 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 24 September 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 24 September 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
How generous is God?
How generous is God?
One of the problems that we have, one of the problems that God has, is that we each answer the question of ‘what generosity is’ differently; this is why we have differing perceptions of how generous God is.
One of the problems that we have, one of the problems that God has, is that we each answer the question of ‘what generosity is’ differently; this is why we have differing perceptions of how generous God is.
Angela’s sermon last Sunday reminded me that we are to forgive repeatedly and generously because this is how God forgives us. God doesn’t just forgive us once or three times or even 70 times 7 times but the God who loves us forgives us each and every time that we turn back and earnestly seek forgiveness. Having spent a week with veterans who were struggling to see themselves as worth forgiveness and also struggling to see that others deserved forgiveness, I needed Angela’s reminder of God’s limitless forgiveness for whoever and whenever people repent and ask for forgiveness.
Angela’s sermon last Sunday reminded me that we are to forgive repeatedly and generously because this is how God forgives us. God doesn’t just forgive us once or three times or even 70 times 7 times but the God who loves us forgives us each and every time that we turn back and earnestly seek forgiveness. Having spent a week with veterans who were struggling to see themselves as worth forgiveness and also struggling to see that others deserved forgiveness, I needed Angela’s reminder of God’s limitless forgiveness for whoever and whenever people repent and ask for forgiveness.
We each view generosity from our own perspectives. It’s part of our love language. If we feel that God is loving us the way we want to be loved and that God is loving us enough or more than we deserve, we will regard God as generous. I think this is the first part of the answer to the question ‘How generous is our God?’ Those who value the love, the joy and the hope that God is offering will see God as extraordinarily generous; those who long for other things will never be satisfied with God’s love.
We each view generosity from our own perspectives. It’s part of our love language. If we feel that God is loving us the way we want to be loved and that God is loving us enough or more than we deserve, we will regard God as generous. I think this is the first part of the answer to the question ‘How generous is our God?’ Those who value the love, the joy and the hope that God is offering will see God as extraordinarily generous; those who long for other things will never be satisfied with God’s love.
Jesus removes the ambiguity; there is no longer any excuse for making up our own gods (that which we trust or hope will give us what we long for). The choice is now simple, if we see God’s life and light and hope and love in Jesus and if we come to him we will find God’s abundant generosity forever. If we don’t, we won’t.
Jesus removes the ambiguity; there is no longer any excuse for making up our own gods (that which we trust or hope will give us what we long for). The choice is now simple, if we see God’s life and light and hope and love in Jesus and if we come to him we will find God’s abundant generosity forever. If we don’t, we won’t.
We only have 10 Sundays left before Advent; 3 December is the latest that Advent Sunday can be. With Parish Council, I have started to plan for Christmas and for the new year. I’m enjoying finding out how Christmas has been celebrated at St Michael’s in years past and am not surprised to hear many differing views of what Christmas should be. I’m looking forward to seeing where God leads us.
We only have 10 Sundays left before Advent; 3 December is the latest that Advent Sunday can be. With Parish Council, I have started to plan for Christmas and for the new year. I’m enjoying finding out how Christmas has been celebrated at St Michael’s in years past and am not surprised to hear many differing views of what Christmas should be. I’m looking forward to seeing where God leads us.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
24 Sep 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 17 September 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 17 September 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Thank you for your prayers and support for our Warrior Welcome Home Program at Rainbow Bay this past week. Our participants were all Army this time and we had more women than men. We had varying lengths of service and experiences and rank; we all brought different issues or ‘dents in our souls’.
Thank you for your prayers and support for our Warrior Welcome Home Program at Rainbow Bay this past week. Our participants were all Army this time and we had more women than men. We had varying lengths of service and experiences and rank; we all brought different issues or ‘dents in our souls’.
God blessed us with wonderful weather and plenty of whales to see in the distance. WWH attempts to help people understand that they are not alone – everyone has ‘dents in the soul’; that God still loves them – God’s light shines in the darkness; that the Bible and particularly Jesus, speak directly to soldiers and Jesus heals soldiers of their spiritual wounds.
God blessed us with wonderful weather and plenty of whales to see in the distance. WWH attempts to help people understand that they are not alone – everyone has ‘dents in the soul’; that God still loves them – God’s light shines in the darkness; that the Bible and particularly Jesus, speak directly to soldiers and Jesus heals soldiers of their spiritual wounds.
We use as many different ways as possible to help people let God’s healing love back into their lives. Most need to once again feel that they are worth healing and find reasons to get better. For some (like me) sitting on the beach at dawn after a swim in the wonderful salty water reminds us of the beauty of God’s creation – despite the pain of the world. For others, it needs great coffee, and someone trusted to talk with. Others need a walk along the beach. We offer each participant a blessing; this is the first time some have chosen a manicure, pedicure or massage (others chose to go stand-up paddleboarding) but afterwards they all felt a bit more restored and blessed.
We use as many different ways as possible to help people let God’s healing love back into their lives. Most need to once again feel that they are worth healing and find reasons to get better. For some (like me) sitting on the beach at dawn after a swim in the wonderful salty water reminds us of the beauty of God’s creation – despite the pain of the world. For others, it needs great coffee, and someone trusted to talk with. Others need a walk along the beach. We offer each participant a blessing; this is the first time some have chosen a manicure, pedicure or massage (others chose to go stand-up paddleboarding) but afterwards they all felt a bit more restored and blessed.
We want our veterans to feel that they are loved and appreciated by our nation, our church and by God, for what they have done.
We want our veterans to feel that they are loved and appreciated by our nation, our church and by God, for what they have done.
Our participants have or are all walking through the valley of the shadow of death. We try to help them find God’s presence there, to find God’s treasures that can only be found in the darkness. Please pray that God will continue to speak to and to heal our veterans.
Our participants have or are all walking through the valley of the shadow of death. We try to help them find God’s presence there, to find God’s treasures that can only be found in the darkness. Please pray that God will continue to speak to and to heal our veterans.
This coming week our community will remember those Police officers who have died in or as a result of their service. They too have many ‘dents in the soul’. Please remember their service and their families this week. My prayers include God’s church offering a program of spiritual recovery for police and emergency service personnel.
This coming week our community will remember those Police officers who have died in or as a result of their service. They too have many ‘dents in the soul’. Please remember their service and their families this week. My prayers include God’s church offering a program of spiritual recovery for police and emergency service personnel.
This week has again reminded me of the destructive power of guilt and the amazing, life giving, healing we can have through forgiveness. If we can forgive and be forgiven, the love that we crave can once again, give us the life for which we long.
This week has again reminded me of the destructive power of guilt and the amazing, life giving, healing we can have through forgiveness. If we can forgive and be forgiven, the love that we crave can once again, give us the life for which we long.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
17 Sep 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 10 September 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC 10 September 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Like me, you probably encounter more and more people, professions and organisations that proclaim the inevitable demise of our church. There certainly is much evidence on the side of the doomsayers. Falling church attendances across our nation and the Western world, ageing congregations and declining clergy numbers. There may often be more against us than for us. Everytime I’m tempted to despair or to see only darkness ahead, God keeps showing the green shoots of new life.
Like me, you probably encounter more and more people, professions and organisations that proclaim the inevitable demise of our church. There certainly is much evidence on the side of the doomsayers. Falling church attendances across our nation and the Western world, ageing congregations and declining clergy numbers. There may often be more against us than for us. Everytime I’m tempted to despair or to see only darkness ahead, God keeps showing the green shoots of new life.
We may not have enough ordinands at St Francis College but the number is not zero and there are good and young people going to college and being ordained. We may have declining numbers in established churches but new churches keep springing up around us. No where did Jesus promise his disciples that the church he would build would be massive; in fact, he promised that the path to heaven would be narrow and the highway to hell would be broad. Let us continue to look for God’s life and hope through his church.
We may not have enough ordinands at St Francis College but the number is not zero and there are good and young people going to college and being ordained. We may have declining numbers in established churches but new churches keep springing up around us. No where did Jesus promise his disciples that the church he would build would be massive; in fact, he promised that the path to heaven would be narrow and the highway to hell would be broad. Let us continue to look for God’s life and hope through his church.
This morning’s Gospel passage is one of these small in number but massive in God effect parables of Jesus. We don’t know much about the 99 sheep in the story but Jesus, God’s Good Shepherd, went to extraordinary lengths to go after, to rescue and to bring home one sheep. Jesus tells us that there was rejoicing over the salvation of the one.
This morning’s Gospel passage is one of these small in number but massive in God effect parables of Jesus. We don’t know much about the 99 sheep in the story but Jesus, God’s Good Shepherd, went to extraordinary lengths to go after, to rescue and to bring home one sheep. Jesus tells us that there was rejoicing over the salvation of the one.
This story will be the basis for our children’s talk this Sunday. It raises plenty of questions for us as a church; have we let Jesus rescue and bring us home; are we a church which with God and all those in heaven can rejoice and welcome into our midst God’s lost sheep?
This story will be the basis for our children’s talk this Sunday. It raises plenty of questions for us as a church; have we let Jesus rescue and bring us home; are we a church which with God and all those in heaven can rejoice and welcome into our midst God’s lost sheep?
Things don’t stand still for long at St Michael’s. My thanks to all involved in last weekend’s successful markets and my thanks to Parish Council who meet after church today. Next Sunday, Angela will be preaching and Sunday 8 October will be our patronal festival.
Things don’t stand still for long at St Michael’s. My thanks to all involved in last weekend’s successful markets and my thanks to Parish Council who meet after church today. Next Sunday, Angela will be preaching and Sunday 8 October will be our patronal festival.
I shall be at Rainbow Bay this week running a Warrior Welcome Home Program for veterans. Yes, God’s healing love still works; it may only be for the 1 and not the 99 but we must pass on God’s love and healing.
I shall be at Rainbow Bay this week running a Warrior Welcome Home Program for veterans. Yes, God’s healing love still works; it may only be for the 1 and not the 99 but we must pass on God’s love and healing.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
10 Sep 2023
10 Sep 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST – 3rd SEPTEMBER.
FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST – 3rd SEPTEMBER.
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Welcome to Spring! New life is blooming and hatching all around us. It’s a season of football finals, perfect South Queensland weather and the few working months before the end of the year.
Welcome to Spring! New life is blooming and hatching all around us. It’s a season of football finals, perfect South Queensland weather and the few working months before the end of the year.
The exciting news of ‘new life’ is that Bishop Jeremy Greaves, Bishop of the Northern Region of our Diocese has been elected as next Archbishop of Brisbane. He is to be installed in December. We will pray for Bishop Jeremy in church and I have included a prayer in GNT. I don’t know Bishop Jeremy well, but I am grateful for God’s choosing and his accepting, for the work of the election committee and to have a new archbishop.
The exciting news of ‘new life’ is that Bishop Jeremy Greaves, Bishop of the Northern Region of our Diocese has been elected as next Archbishop of Brisbane. He is to be installed in December. We will pray for Bishop Jeremy in church and I have included a prayer in GNT. I don’t know Bishop Jeremy well, but I am grateful for God’s choosing and his accepting, for the work of the election committee and to have a new archbishop.
For the next six weeks we will be bombarded with materiel and people wanting to convince us to vote No or Yes at a referendum. I encourage everyone who can to vote but please don’t get distracted by the vote or let the passionate around us distract from our calling to be a church.
For the next six weeks we will be bombarded with materiel and people wanting to convince us to vote No or Yes at a referendum. I encourage everyone who can to vote but please don’t get distracted by the vote or let the passionate around us distract from our calling to be a church.
The biggest issue for each of us remains how do we live out God’s calling personally and in our families and in our community when those families and communities may be divided. As we approach the referendum, I encourage everyone to be gentle and calm and to listen and listen and listen.
The biggest issue for each of us remains how do we live out God’s calling personally and in our families and in our community when those families and communities may be divided. As we approach the referendum, I encourage everyone to be gentle and calm and to listen and listen and listen.
This referendum process brings up the issues that I work with amongst our Defence members and our veterans. We think that we make decisions with our minds but actually, as we do on most of the biggest issues in our lives, most are making decisions from their fundamental beliefs and then justifying these decisions with thoughts and words. We are often captives to beliefs of which we are unaware.
This referendum process brings up the issues that I work with amongst our Defence members and our veterans. We think that we make decisions with our minds but actually, as we do on most of the biggest issues in our lives, most are making decisions from their fundamental beliefs and then justifying these decisions with thoughts and words. We are often captives to beliefs of which we are unaware.
This Sunday’s Gospel reading is Jesus telling his disciples that he isn’t going to lead a revolution or a military overthrow of the Romans or the Jews. The disciples wanted an earthly Messiah one who would fix all that is wrong in this world. Jesus rather points to and them becomes a saviour who will lead individuals back into a personal, life-giving, eternal relationship with God. The way there requires carrying a personal, God given cross and following Jesus.
This Sunday’s Gospel reading is Jesus telling his disciples that he isn’t going to lead a revolution or a military overthrow of the Romans or the Jews. The disciples wanted an earthly Messiah one who would fix all that is wrong in this world. Jesus rather points to and them becomes a saviour who will lead individuals back into a personal, life-giving, eternal relationship with God. The way there requires carrying a personal, God given cross and following Jesus.
This morning Jesus begins, with God’s logic, to confront the disciples hopes, dreams and beliefs in their human-made Messiah and to point to God’s true salvation. In the end, Jesus would die to take the false hopes of the world onto his cross and then into the grave.
This morning Jesus begins, with God’s logic, to confront the disciples hopes, dreams and beliefs in their human-made Messiah and to point to God’s true salvation. In the end, Jesus would die to take the false hopes of the world onto his cross and then into the grave.
This Sunday we will look at the hope God offers and what false hopes of this world we may still be clinging to.
This Sunday we will look at the hope God offers and what false hopes of this world we may still be clinging to.
Grace and peace and hope and life,
Grace and peace and hope and life,
Rob
3 September 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Spring has certainly sprung early with all around us seemingly bursting back to life. I have to add lawn mowing into my schedule but God has lovingly given me more daylight into which to fit this walking around my garden.
In our liturgical year we also are at a turning point. Our Gospel passage Matthew 16 in which the seemingly fearless Simon declares Jesus to be the Messiah is the pivotal point of this Gospel; everything has been leading up to Peter’s declaration that Jesus is the Messiah. Similarly in our Epistle, Romans 12 is the point where Paul gets to the point where he says, ‘Therefore my beloved brethren …’ This Sunday we shall explore who, after 16 chapters of Jesus’s actions, we say Jesus is and what, after 11 chapters of background, Paul would have us do.
We have a busy week ahead with Moggill Markets again on Saturday; thank you to all involved. I hope that we can continue to build on the opportunities that we have with local children who come during the markets to our Church Children’s Craft. I know it’s hard for parents to get to church with young families on Sunday morinings, so we now make sure we have the ‘Sunday activities’ for children when families come to the markets.
I had the opportunity this past week to spend a few days at the Southern Region clergy conference. It would have been nice to stay longer but I did find time for a short walk (and a really nice ice cream) on the beach. I’m not a huge fan of such conferences but the time spent with other clergy sharing meals and chatting about common interests and issues was helpful for one who is still a ‘new boy’. There was much goodwill and willingness to share ideas and resources.
My final point is to pass on to you just some of the gratitude that has been shared with me for the charitable contributions we have made to ministries around us. The amounts we were able to share are not huge but the impact of our love has been amazing – thank you all.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
27 August 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
We as a parish family still live amongst the world’s darkness yet, we have so much for which to be grateful. First, we have God’s light and hope and peace in our darkness and second, we have so many blessings; there are so many around us whose circumstances are much tougher than ours. As the people of God at St Michael and All Angels Moggill, in addition to loving God we are also called to love those around us.
We as a parish family still live amongst the world’s darkness yet, we have so much for which to be grateful. First, we have God’s light and hope and peace in our darkness and second, we have so many blessings; there are so many around us whose circumstances are much tougher than ours. As the people of God at St Michael and All Angels Moggill, in addition to loving God we are also called to love those around us.
In our last Parish Council Meeting we discussed our external Mission giving. It was a full and open discussion and I am grateful for the breadth of issues raised. I proposed, and Parish Council agreed, that as a parish, we should use the money raised by our fundraising in three areas:
In our last Parish Council Meeting we discussed our external Mission giving. It was a full and open discussion and I am grateful for the breadth of issues raised. I proposed, and Parish Council agreed, that as a parish, we should use the money raised by our fundraising in three areas:
· Supporting the compassionate, professional, loving work of Anglican agencies as they care for those in need;
· Supporting the compassionate, professional, loving work of Anglican agencies as they care for those in need;
· Supporting the outwards focused ministry and work of this parish, particularly children’s ministry; and
· Supporting the outwards focused ministry and work of this parish, particularly children’s ministry; and
· Supporting the training of future Anglican clergy
· Supporting the training of future Anglican clergy
Last Sunday was Anglicare Sunday and I noted that Anglicare helps those who need care in ways that we are each not able to do. They provide the professional care that our modern world demands; much of their work is government funded but some of it needs our generosity. In addition to the personal generosity of parishioners, Parish Council agreed to give $1,000 to Anglicare.
Last Sunday was Anglicare Sunday and I noted that Anglicare helps those who need care in ways that we are each not able to do. They provide the professional care that our modern world demands; much of their work is government funded but some of it needs our generosity. In addition to the personal generosity of parishioners, Parish Council agreed to give $1,000 to Anglicare.
There are two Anglican parishes near us which provide direct support to those in need. We have traditionally supported St Hugh’s Inala but we know that some from the Moggill area seek support from Goodna parish. Parish Council has agreed to support these parishes.
There are two Anglican parishes near us which provide direct support to those in need. We have traditionally supported St Hugh’s Inala but we know that some from the Moggill area seek support from Goodna parish. Parish Council has agreed to support these parishes.
Our own ministry has costs. Our new children’s ministry is largely mission and community focused and we have agreed to contribute $600 to the cost of materials for children’s ministry.
Our own ministry has costs. Our new children’s ministry is largely mission and community focused and we have agreed to contribute $600 to the cost of materials for children’s ministry.
It is also appropriate to contribute towards the overall cost of our facilities and so, $600 was agreed towards the cost of the new air conditioner in our hall.
It is also appropriate to contribute towards the overall cost of our facilities and so, $600 was agreed towards the cost of the new air conditioner in our hall.
If our diocese can not train more clergy, parishes like ours will be amongst the first to have to do without. We have agreed to contribute to the St Francis College, Ordination Candidates Fund which helps those training for ministry.
If our diocese can not train more clergy, parishes like ours will be amongst the first to have to do without. We have agreed to contribute to the St Francis College, Ordination Candidates Fund which helps those training for ministry.
There will always be more that we could do but these areas appear to be appropriate uses of the hard work and funds raised in support of God’s work of an Anglican Parish.
There will always be more that we could do but these areas appear to be appropriate uses of the hard work and funds raised in support of God’s work of an Anglican Parish.
I am very grateful for the effort that has gone into this fundraising, and I pray that this work will bless those who need our love.
I am very grateful for the effort that has gone into this fundraising, and I pray that this work will bless those who need our love.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
20 August 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
After the joy of three baptisms last Sunday and a couple of weekends with the energy of markets in our carpark, children doing craft in our church and wonderful cake stalls, welcome to an ‘almost normal Sunday’.
After the joy of three baptisms last Sunday and a couple of weekends with the energy of markets in our carpark, children doing craft in our church and wonderful cake stalls, welcome to an ‘almost normal Sunday’.
This ‘almost normal Sunday’ Angela is going to preach, and we have the joy of Parish Council after church, but we are also asked to think of, celebrate and pray for the work of Anglicare. Anglicare is in many ways us; I hope that you think of their work as our work, their listening ears and helping hands as our ears and hands. Much of what ANGLICARE staff and volunteers now do is much more professionalised than it used to be. There are important reasons for this, particularly as much of their funding is from government but the way this work is done is still fundamentally Christian. Walking with people; loving them as we care for them; including pastoral care and spiritual health in the care package gives as much dignity as possible when this is what our world takes away.
This ‘almost normal Sunday’ Angela is going to preach, and we have the joy of Parish Council after church, but we are also asked to think of, celebrate and pray for the work of Anglicare. Anglicare is in many ways us; I hope that you think of their work as our work, their listening ears and helping hands as our ears and hands. Much of what ANGLICARE staff and volunteers now do is much more professionalised than it used to be. There are important reasons for this, particularly as much of their funding is from government but the way this work is done is still fundamentally Christian. Walking with people; loving them as we care for them; including pastoral care and spiritual health in the care package gives as much dignity as possible when this is what our world takes away.
I have attached a letter from Bishop Cam Venables and I encourage you to visit the Anglicare website.
I have attached a letter from Bishop Cam Venables and I encourage you to visit the Anglicare website.
As we think of ANGLICARE being us and as their love for people being our love, I have recommended to Parish Council that we donate some of our fund raising to Anglicare. I hope to write more on our external mission giving next Sunday. This week I encourage you, if you are able, to donate towards the work of Anglicare. If you would like a receipt I encourage you to do this on-line (instant receipt and also emailed receipt) but we will also have a retiring offertory opportunity (no receipts).
As we think of ANGLICARE being us and as their love for people being our love, I have recommended to Parish Council that we donate some of our fund raising to Anglicare. I hope to write more on our external mission giving next Sunday. This week I encourage you, if you are able, to donate towards the work of Anglicare. If you would like a receipt I encourage you to do this on-line (instant receipt and also emailed receipt) but we will also have a retiring offertory opportunity (no receipts).
We can’t do all that Anglicare staff and volunteers do, but we can empower them through our prayers and support; through them we can love our neighbours around us.
We can’t do all that Anglicare staff and volunteers do, but we can empower them through our prayers and support; through them we can love our neighbours around us.
Grace and peace and hope and love,
Grace and peace and hope and love,
Rob
13 Aug 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
This week we have three people being baptised within our Sunday morning service. We celebrate this joyous occasion with the Greenwood family. It will be special for Ian and Evelyn before they head back home to the USA; special for very different reasons for Andrew whose infant baptism was deferred (by several decades) when the priest involved died. The Greenwood family celebration is an opportunity for us as a parish to think of our own relationships with God.
This week we have three people being baptised within our Sunday morning service. We celebrate this joyous occasion with the Greenwood family. It will be special for Ian and Evelyn before they head back home to the USA; special for very different reasons for Andrew whose infant baptism was deferred (by several decades) when the priest involved died. The Greenwood family celebration is an opportunity for us as a parish to think of our own relationships with God.
God has from the very beginning brought his people to back into relationship with him through water. Before God created anything else, God separated the land from the waters. Noah and his family, Moses, the people of Israel were all saved through water and the Israelites had to cross the River of Jordan to reach their Promised Land.
God has from the very beginning brought his people to back into relationship with him through water. Before God created anything else, God separated the land from the waters. Noah and his family, Moses, the people of Israel were all saved through water and the Israelites had to cross the River of Jordan to reach their Promised Land.
Jesus, the only one who didn’t need baptism, asked John to baptise him so that he could show us and lead us to God’s salvation through water. This morning we will reflect upon our own need for God’s salvation and the hope of new life that Jesus offers us and symbolises for us through water.
Jesus, the only one who didn’t need baptism, asked John to baptise him so that he could show us and lead us to God’s salvation through water. This morning we will reflect upon our own need for God’s salvation and the hope of new life that Jesus offers us and symbolises for us through water.
Let us remember that God says to each of us after our baptism, “you are my beloved child, I’m pleased with you.”
Let us remember that God says to each of us after our baptism, “you are my beloved child, I’m pleased with you.”
Grace and peace and hope and love,
Grace and peace and hope and love,
Rob
6 August 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
What an exciting time around our church. Within our parish community, we are in the midst of the whole range of life experiences in God’s world. As well as the joy of weddings we also have sickness and sadness and loneliness and death. As a church, as the Body of Christ, we are called to pray, but for what and how?
What an exciting time around our church. Within our parish community, we are in the midst of the whole range of life experiences in God’s world. As well as the joy of weddings we also have sickness and sadness and loneliness and death. As a church, as the Body of Christ, we are called to pray, but for what and how?
St Paul helps us by explaining in this week’s Epistle, that we actually don’t know how to pray properly but that God’s Holy Spirit joins our spirit to God as we pray so that our hearts and spirits can pray as God wants us to.
St Paul helps us by explaining in this week’s Epistle, that we actually don’t know how to pray properly but that God’s Holy Spirit joins our spirit to God as we pray so that our hearts and spirits can pray as God wants us to.
26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with groanings too deep for words. 27 And God who searches hearts, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:26,27
26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with groanings too deep for words. 27 And God who searches hearts, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:26,27
Paul goes on to continue the theme that we have been travelling with in Matthew’s Gospel for the past six weeks. God told us that He was going to allow these things to happen but God promises to be with us to love and sustain us through everything in this world. We will explore this, and the treasure of which Jesus speaks this Sunday.
Paul goes on to continue the theme that we have been travelling with in Matthew’s Gospel for the past six weeks. God told us that He was going to allow these things to happen but God promises to be with us to love and sustain us through everything in this world. We will explore this, and the treasure of which Jesus speaks this Sunday.
37 No, in all these things we are more than victorious through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39
37 No, in all these things we are more than victorious through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39
My great thanks to all who worked so hard to make the Christmas in July Markets so successful. I know that a lot of hard work was put in by many. This is a wonderful way of us being God’s church in our community. Well done. (And we had some fun along the way).
My great thanks to all who worked so hard to make the Christmas in July Markets so successful. I know that a lot of hard work was put in by many. This is a wonderful way of us being God’s church in our community. Well done. (And we had some fun along the way).
Grace and peace and hope and joy
Grace and peace and hope and joy
Rob
30 July 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends
Dear Friends
Why does God let the bad and evil people in this world continue to live amongst us in our communities? Jesus, this week, in Matthew’s Gospel is dealing with this issue for the disciples, for the early church and for us. As usual, I have a reasonable idea where the sermon will take us but I wonder where our children’s talk will land. God’s light shines in the darkness of this world and God longs to have his angels welcome his faithful into his eternal kingdom.
Why does God let the bad and evil people in this world continue to live amongst us in our communities? Jesus, this week, in Matthew’s Gospel is dealing with this issue for the disciples, for the early church and for us. As usual, I have a reasonable idea where the sermon will take us but I wonder where our children’s talk will land. God’s light shines in the darkness of this world and God longs to have his angels welcome his faithful into his eternal kingdom.
We are now past the two darkest months of the year and into our the glorious South Queensland best of winter. I reminded those with who were at Morning Prayer on Wednesday that in addition to bringing our prayer requests to God, we should also begin our prayers with praising and thanking God.
We are now past the two darkest months of the year and into our the glorious South Queensland best of winter. I reminded those with who were at Morning Prayer on Wednesday that in addition to bringing our prayer requests to God, we should also begin our prayers with praising and thanking God.
As I drove through the fog to church on Wednesday morning, on the top of each hill there was blue sky and sunshine; with the window down I could hear the birds chirping. As I came into our church and saw the cross, I was reminded of God’s great personal love. In our prayers, we should praise and thank God; we should listen to God and we should then, ask God.
As I drove through the fog to church on Wednesday morning, on the top of each hill there was blue sky and sunshine; with the window down I could hear the birds chirping. As I came into our church and saw the cross, I was reminded of God’s great personal love. In our prayers, we should praise and thank God; we should listen to God and we should then, ask God.
We continue to encounter darkness, pain, sadness and suffering in this world. The reality of the inevitable death of those we love is inescapable, yet into this world’s darkness God’s love always has and always will shine. The reality of death of those we love brought even Jesus to tears. But, like Jesus we are not to remain in grief; we are to remember and to hold onto our sure and certain hope that our destiny is eternal life with God, perfectly loved in heaven. May those who mourn be comforted and may those who are approaching death do so with hope.
We continue to encounter darkness, pain, sadness and suffering in this world. The reality of the inevitable death of those we love is inescapable, yet into this world’s darkness God’s love always has and always will shine. The reality of death of those we love brought even Jesus to tears. But, like Jesus we are not to remain in grief; we are to remember and to hold onto our sure and certain hope that our destiny is eternal life with God, perfectly loved in heaven. May those who mourn be comforted and may those who are approaching death do so with hope.
We have a busy time ahead; next week we have women’s and men’s breakfasts and Christmas in July Markets and then markets again the following week.
We have a busy time ahead; next week we have women’s and men’s breakfasts and Christmas in July Markets and then markets again the following week.
Biblically, we embark on Sundays of Jesus teaching how to live heaven focused lives in this world.
Biblically, we embark on Sundays of Jesus teaching how to live heaven focused lives in this world.
Liturgically, Sunday 6 August, we will have baptisms in the Sunday Service. This will be an opportunity for us all to reflect on our own baptisms, for some this might be a memory but for most of us sharing in the baptism of others is a time for us to recall God’s offer to us and our responses.
Liturgically, Sunday 6 August, we will have baptisms in the Sunday Service. This will be an opportunity for us all to reflect on our own baptisms, for some this might be a memory but for most of us sharing in the baptism of others is a time for us to recall God’s offer to us and our responses.
This week, may we learn how God would have us live with those around us who we find difficult, hurtful, and evil. As we grow as God’s good and fruitful plants may we in God’s power and strength and love, learn how to focus on heaven, and to live our short lives in this world.
This week, may we learn how God would have us live with those around us who we find difficult, hurtful, and evil. As we grow as God’s good and fruitful plants may we in God’s power and strength and love, learn how to focus on heaven, and to live our short lives in this world.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
23 July 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Do you ever wonder how you would have fared if you had met Jesus face to face? Over the next few months through Matthew’s Gospel, we encounter those who met Jesus; as we think about their treatment by and reactions to Jesus, it’s helpful to ask what we would have done and felt.
Do you ever wonder how you would have fared if you had met Jesus face to face? Over the next few months through Matthew’s Gospel, we encounter those who met Jesus; as we think about their treatment by and reactions to Jesus, it’s helpful to ask what we would have done and felt.
This week’s Gospel comes just after John the Baptist, who was in prison, had sent his disciples to Jesus. John was in prison for speaking the word of the Lord and for pointing out the sins of King Herod. John’s question to Jesus was in effect, “Hey, Jesus if you are the Messiah, the Saviour from God, and if I have done what God has asked of me, why are you not rescuing me from prison?” Jesus sends John’s disciples back to John to tell him all the works that Jesus had done as proof that he, Jesus, is the Messiah from God. Jesus doesn’t rescue John; in fact, Herod will soon have him killed.
This week’s Gospel comes just after John the Baptist, who was in prison, had sent his disciples to Jesus. John was in prison for speaking the word of the Lord and for pointing out the sins of King Herod. John’s question to Jesus was in effect, “Hey, Jesus if you are the Messiah, the Saviour from God, and if I have done what God has asked of me, why are you not rescuing me from prison?” Jesus sends John’s disciples back to John to tell him all the works that Jesus had done as proof that he, Jesus, is the Messiah from God. Jesus doesn’t rescue John; in fact, Herod will soon have him killed.
In Matthew’s Gospel we get these confronting prayers from Jesus; I don’t dare to pray thanking God for hiding his truth from people, but Jesus does. One of the reasons our children’s talks are so important is that Jesus says, God will hide the reality of Godself from those who think they are wise and clever yet God will reveal Godself to the childlike. Although our God is sometimes described as true wisdom and he granted wisdom to Solomon, God has chosen to be known, not through wisdom but through faith, through simple and pure, child-like faith.
In Matthew’s Gospel we get these confronting prayers from Jesus; I don’t dare to pray thanking God for hiding his truth from people, but Jesus does. One of the reasons our children’s talks are so important is that Jesus says, God will hide the reality of Godself from those who think they are wise and clever yet God will reveal Godself to the childlike. Although our God is sometimes described as true wisdom and he granted wisdom to Solomon, God has chosen to be known, not through wisdom but through faith, through simple and pure, child-like faith.
Worldly wisdom leads us away from God; its bases, money, power and love of things in the world are fundamentally selfish, self-centered. If we trust, or put our faith in these, we will not find eternal life. God provides a different basis for wisdom; through faith in God, we can find true and eternal wisdom.
Worldly wisdom leads us away from God; its bases, money, power and love of things in the world are fundamentally selfish, self-centered. If we trust, or put our faith in these, we will not find eternal life. God provides a different basis for wisdom; through faith in God, we can find true and eternal wisdom.
Again, my thanks to all involved in the Moggill Markets. It is helpful to raise some money but much more important for the way we engage with our community. I pray that we can build on the success of things like our Church Children’s Craft.
Again, my thanks to all involved in the Moggill Markets. It is helpful to raise some money but much more important for the way we engage with our community. I pray that we can build on the success of things like our Church Children’s Craft.
Special thanks go to all who helped with our working bee; it really has made a difference.
Special thanks go to all who helped with our working bee; it really has made a difference.
This week, may we, in pure, simple, childlike faith, see and know God; may our wisdom and our decisions be based on our trust in God.
This week, may we, in pure, simple, childlike faith, see and know God; may our wisdom and our decisions be based on our trust in God.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
9 July 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST – 2nd JULY.
FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST – 2nd JULY.
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I know I said last week that ‘Summer is coming’ and it’s true, there are glimpses of summer in some glorious winter days. There is greater light ahead and regardless of how good a Queensland winter is, but we are still in the times of darkness.
I know I said last week that ‘Summer is coming’ and it’s true, there are glimpses of summer in some glorious winter days. There is greater light ahead and regardless of how good a Queensland winter is, but we are still in the times of darkness.
In the same way, Heaven is coming. I’m completely unsure if Jesus will return first to end the times or if I shall die and go to heaven first but I live in, we are all called to live in, the sure and certain hope that Heaven is coming. Jesus warns us of this world’s darkness and he shines God’s light and life and hope into this darkness. Heaven is ahead; God promises heaven to all who will follow him but for now we are to live looking forward in hope – Jesus will come to draw us to himself.
In the same way, Heaven is coming. I’m completely unsure if Jesus will return first to end the times or if I shall die and go to heaven first but I live in, we are all called to live in, the sure and certain hope that Heaven is coming. Jesus warns us of this world’s darkness and he shines God’s light and life and hope into this darkness. Heaven is ahead; God promises heaven to all who will follow him but for now we are to live looking forward in hope – Jesus will come to draw us to himself.
Jesus warns us that world around us will live either oblivious to their need for heaven, or look for heaven in other places. This week, we will look at living with a focus beyond the reality of death and judgement.
Jesus warns us that world around us will live either oblivious to their need for heaven, or look for heaven in other places. This week, we will look at living with a focus beyond the reality of death and judgement.
Last weekend Bronwen Thomas, Sam Towers and I had the privilege of participating in our diocesan synod. Much of it was sobering; some of the realities of a shrinking church and lack of clergy were unavoidable but in the midst of this God’s light and hope are still shining. We are happy to share a little more of synod separately.
Last weekend Bronwen Thomas, Sam Towers and I had the privilege of participating in our diocesan synod. Much of it was sobering; some of the realities of a shrinking church and lack of clergy were unavoidable but in the midst of this God’s light and hope are still shining. We are happy to share a little more of synod separately.
This week’s physical glimpse of light can be our new sign! Thanks to all involved in getting this done.
This week’s physical glimpse of light can be our new sign! Thanks to all involved in getting this done.
Thanks also to all who were involved in the Moggill Markets in many ways. This is an important way of us living in our community.
Thanks also to all who were involved in the Moggill Markets in many ways. This is an important way of us living in our community.
As a church our words matter a little but how we live our lives matters much more – this is how we shine God’s light into darkness. This week, God’s call to us is to live as those who God has freed from slavery to the things of this world. We are to trust, above all else, that our eternal homes, our eternal families, our eternal citizenship is in God’s heaven.
As a church our words matter a little but how we live our lives matters much more – this is how we shine God’s light into darkness. This week, God’s call to us is to live as those who God has freed from slavery to the things of this world. We are to trust, above all else, that our eternal homes, our eternal families, our eternal citizenship is in God’s heaven.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
2 July 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC
Fourth Sunday After Pentecost 25 June 2023
Fourth Sunday After Pentecost 25 June 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Summer is coming! This week the sun has commenced its journey back towards us and our days will start to lengthen; yes I know, my granddaughter told me, there will still be the same number of hours, minutes and seconds in a day as always but we have more daylight, more warmth.
Summer is coming! This week the sun has commenced its journey back towards us and our days will start to lengthen; yes I know, my granddaughter told me, there will still be the same number of hours, minutes and seconds in a day as always but we have more daylight, more warmth.
In the same way, Heaven is coming. I’m completely unsure if Jesus will return first to end the times or if I shall die and go to heaven first but I live in, we are all called to live in, the sure and certain hope that Heaven is coming.
In the same way, Heaven is coming. I’m completely unsure if Jesus will return first to end the times or if I shall die and go to heaven first but I live in, we are all called to live in, the sure and certain hope that Heaven is coming.
The world around us appears to live oblivious to their need for heaven – sad, for we will all have to face the reality of death and judgement. I need God’s hope and life and love even now but even more as I get closer to heaven.
The world around us appears to live oblivious to their need for heaven – sad, for we will all have to face the reality of death and judgement. I need God’s hope and life and love even now but even more as I get closer to heaven.
What does it take to ‘shock’ people out of their perceived lack of need for a relationship with God? This week we look at some of the very tough language Jesus uses to leave us in no doubt that God loves us enough to shock us out of our malaise.
What does it take to ‘shock’ people out of their perceived lack of need for a relationship with God? This week we look at some of the very tough language Jesus uses to leave us in no doubt that God loves us enough to shock us out of our malaise.
Let us live as those who trust above all else that our eternal homes, our eternal families, our eternal citizenship is in God’s heaven.
Let us live as those who trust above all else that our eternal homes, our eternal families, our eternal citizenship is in God’s heaven.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
25 June 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC (TBA)
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC (TBA)
THIRD SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST -18th JUNE.
THIRD SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST -18th JUNE.
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Warm winter greetings! Having, like many of you, lived in much colder parts of our country and the world, I love winter here. I love winter here in South Queensland once the sun comes out and the frost volatilises; I love the days of no rain and no wind particularly if I get a few minutes to sit in the sun with a coffee.
Warm winter greetings! Having, like many of you, lived in much colder parts of our country and the world, I love winter here. I love winter here in South Queensland once the sun comes out and the frost volatilises; I love the days of no rain and no wind particularly if I get a few minutes to sit in the sun with a coffee.
The last part of our Gospel passage and also St Pauls’ Epistle to the Romans are speaking to this ‘winter’ experience. Like the sun, God’s love and life and hope and joy are always real but Jesus warns of the darkness of the times when we can’t see or feel God’s blessings. It is in the darkness that God finds us; into this world’s darkness God shines his light and sometimes it is only in the darkness that we can see and hear God. Jesus doesn’t want us to be surprised by this world’s darkness. St Paul wants us to grow in faith through the tough times. Only a selective reading of the Bible excludes God’s warning of and God’s preparation of us for this world’s darkness.
The last part of our Gospel passage and also St Pauls’ Epistle to the Romans are speaking to this ‘winter’ experience. Like the sun, God’s love and life and hope and joy are always real but Jesus warns of the darkness of the times when we can’t see or feel God’s blessings. It is in the darkness that God finds us; into this world’s darkness God shines his light and sometimes it is only in the darkness that we can see and hear God. Jesus doesn’t want us to be surprised by this world’s darkness. St Paul wants us to grow in faith through the tough times. Only a selective reading of the Bible excludes God’s warning of and God’s preparation of us for this world’s darkness.
Not all are taken into the valley of the shadow of death or the valley of deepest darkness (Psalm 23). When God takes us there, it is because God loves us and wants us to grow. Isaiah writes of God giving the treasures of darkness where faith’s greatest riches are stored. In response Cheri Keaggy sings, ‘a faith that has never been tested is just growth that is long overdue.’
Not all are taken into the valley of the shadow of death or the valley of deepest darkness (Psalm 23). When God takes us there, it is because God loves us and wants us to grow. Isaiah writes of God giving the treasures of darkness where faith’s greatest riches are stored. In response Cheri Keaggy sings, ‘a faith that has never been tested is just growth that is long overdue.’
Matthew West sings of a ‘broken and beautiful gone mad a magical awfully wonderful life’.
Matthew West sings of a ‘broken and beautiful gone mad a magical awfully wonderful life’.
Fear not, for God is always with you and promises to uphold us. Like the winter sun, Jesus will come again.
Fear not, for God is always with you and promises to uphold us. Like the winter sun, Jesus will come again.
I know that many continue to be unwell. I am greatly encouraged by the love and care within the parish for those who are struggling. If you need a little TLC please let us know. Also, I have time most Wednesday mornings for coffee or a chat.
I know that many continue to be unwell. I am greatly encouraged by the love and care within the parish for those who are struggling. If you need a little TLC please let us know. Also, I have time most Wednesday mornings for coffee or a chat.
This week, may you know God’s life giving, loving, joy bringing, healing, growth producing, resilience building, empowering Holy Spirit and may you share this with those around you.
This week, may you know God’s life giving, loving, joy bringing, healing, growth producing, resilience building, empowering Holy Spirit and may you share this with those around you.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
18 June 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC Second Sunday After Pentecost 11 June 2023
Reflection from The Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC Second Sunday After Pentecost 11 June 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Thank you for the many Trinity conversations which followed from our teachings last Sunday. I love these, real world, theological discussions and I think it’s important that the Bible is not just the topic for a few minutes on Sunday.
Thank you for the many Trinity conversations which followed from our teachings last Sunday. I love these, real world, theological discussions and I think it’s important that the Bible is not just the topic for a few minutes on Sunday.
This Sunday at St Michael’s we will be remembering and celebrating Saint Barnabas. The Rev’d Angela McNeill who will be teaching us about the ministry of this real-world, worker-saint and the lessons that Barnabas brings for those of us in God’s real world has given us these words in preparation.
This Sunday at St Michael’s we will be remembering and celebrating Saint Barnabas. The Rev’d Angela McNeill who will be teaching us about the ministry of this real-world, worker-saint and the lessons that Barnabas brings for those of us in God’s real world has given us these words in preparation.
Today we commemorate and celebrate Barnabas – also named at birth as Joseph. Barnabas was a member of the Israelite tribe of Levi and a native of the island of Cyprus. He later migrated to Jerusalem. It is while he is in Jerusalem that he meets Saul (Paul) – This was after Saul’s transformation on the Damascus Road. Barnabas takes Saul under his wing and commends him to the disciples in Jerusalem. We can assume he was a well-known associate of Paul - so well-known to him and the communities that they visited because Paul never actually had any need to introduce him in any of his letters. It is not known if during this time he actually met Jesus but what is known was that it was the Jerusalem Apostles gave him the name Barnabas that translated to Son of Encouragement.
Today we commemorate and celebrate Barnabas – also named at birth as Joseph. Barnabas was a member of the Israelite tribe of Levi and a native of the island of Cyprus. He later migrated to Jerusalem. It is while he is in Jerusalem that he meets Saul (Paul) – This was after Saul’s transformation on the Damascus Road. Barnabas takes Saul under his wing and commends him to the disciples in Jerusalem. We can assume he was a well-known associate of Paul - so well-known to him and the communities that they visited because Paul never actually had any need to introduce him in any of his letters. It is not known if during this time he actually met Jesus but what is known was that it was the Jerusalem Apostles gave him the name Barnabas that translated to Son of Encouragement.
Barnabas’ story ends with his execution in the Cypriot capital Salamis. It is said that together with his ashes, he was buried with a copy of Matthew’s Gospel. As a venerated apostle and martyr, Barnabas and his gravesite, certify the authority of the Christian church in Cyprus and its independence from Antioch.
Barnabas’ story ends with his execution in the Cypriot capital Salamis. It is said that together with his ashes, he was buried with a copy of Matthew’s Gospel. As a venerated apostle and martyr, Barnabas and his gravesite, certify the authority of the Christian church in Cyprus and its independence from Antioch.
There are many things happening around us. I hope that the bout of winter illness that has affected so many is easing. Perhaps it’s a result of us avoiding so many virus like illnesses over the Covid years. If you or your family are unwell please look after yourself and them. Missing church for a week is preferable to sharing or to burning yourself out.
There are many things happening around us. I hope that the bout of winter illness that has affected so many is easing. Perhaps it’s a result of us avoiding so many virus like illnesses over the Covid years. If you or your family are unwell please look after yourself and them. Missing church for a week is preferable to sharing or to burning yourself out.
If you are unwell, please let friends or neighbours know, particularly if you need help (including sympathy) or prayer. If God ‘maketh you lie down …’, let this same God lead you by the quiet waters of the spirit for a while – Psalm 23. ‘Let the world turn without you tonight.’ is not a line from the Bible but from Jesus Christ Superstar. The Biblical equivalent is from Psalm 46; there is a time to ‘Be still and know that I am God.’ Sometimes we are called to physically give in and to let God work on our souls for a while.
If you are unwell, please let friends or neighbours know, particularly if you need help (including sympathy) or prayer. If God ‘maketh you lie down …’, let this same God lead you by the quiet waters of the spirit for a while – Psalm 23. ‘Let the world turn without you tonight.’ is not a line from the Bible but from Jesus Christ Superstar. The Biblical equivalent is from Psalm 46; there is a time to ‘Be still and know that I am God.’ Sometimes we are called to physically give in and to let God work on our souls for a while.
The exciting development this week is, New Name Badges! The new name badges without pins or clips are magnetic. All you need to do is pick up your badge and a ‘backing metal strip.’ These should allow us to wear badges without the need for holes in clothes and there are no sharps to worry about with children.
The exciting development this week is, New Name Badges! The new name badges without pins or clips are magnetic. All you need to do is pick up your badge and a ‘backing metal strip.’ These should allow us to wear badges without the need for holes in clothes and there are no sharps to worry about with children.
Thanks to everyone who contributed to the design and particularly to Helen Donovan for printing (and reprinting) and assembling.
Thanks to everyone who contributed to the design and particularly to Helen Donovan for printing (and reprinting) and assembling.
Our new sign is also nearly here.
Our new sign is also nearly here.
Two brief update notices (more details to follow).
Two brief update notices (more details to follow).
· Prayer Circle – I will speak about this after church and there is more detail in the notices but thank you to Christine Bodey who will be leading and coordinating this important ministry.
· Prayer Circle – I will speak about this after church and there is more detail in the notices but thank you to Christine Bodey who will be leading and coordinating this important ministry.
· Moggill Markets will now only be once a month, on the first Saturday. We will continue with cake stall, with Church Children’s Craft and we are looking at a BBQ.
· Moggill Markets will now only be once a month, on the first Saturday. We will continue with cake stall, with Church Children’s Craft and we are looking at a BBQ.
· Our working bee has been deferred to July.
· Our working bee has been deferred to July.
This week, may you know God’s life giving, loving, joy bringing, empowering Holy Spirit and may you share this with those around you.
This week, may you know God’s life giving, loving, joy bringing, empowering Holy Spirit and may you share this with those around you.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
11 June 2023
Reflection from the Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC Sixth Sunday of Easter 14 May 2023
Reflection from the Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC Sixth Sunday of Easter 14 May 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
“Alleluia! Christ is risen indeed!” It was encouraging to hear these words proclaimed by the Archbishop of Canterbury during the Coronation Service but of course, much more encouraging to see this belief proclaimed in our lives.
“Alleluia! Christ is risen indeed!” It was encouraging to hear these words proclaimed by the Archbishop of Canterbury during the Coronation Service but of course, much more encouraging to see this belief proclaimed in our lives.
Last Sunday we used the Coronation of King Charles and TV (our only way of participating), to reflect upon the relationship with God the Father and with heaven that Jesus says he has enabled for us. It was sobering to be reminded that St Stephen was killed by those who didn’t want to hear his message that Jesus is the Son of God. The religious leaders in the crowd killed St Stephen to stop him testifying that he had seen a vision of Jesus standing beside God in heaven. We didn’t get invited to the Coronation, not the church, not the party and with select Royal Family members on the balcony but Jesus offers to bring us into God’s inner sanctuary as family members. I want to thank the British people for the many millions of pounds that they spent to provide us in Moggill with a great way to understand the Gospel!
Last Sunday we used the Coronation of King Charles and TV (our only way of participating), to reflect upon the relationship with God the Father and with heaven that Jesus says he has enabled for us. It was sobering to be reminded that St Stephen was killed by those who didn’t want to hear his message that Jesus is the Son of God. The religious leaders in the crowd killed St Stephen to stop him testifying that he had seen a vision of Jesus standing beside God in heaven. We didn’t get invited to the Coronation, not the church, not the party and with select Royal Family members on the balcony but Jesus offers to bring us into God’s inner sanctuary as family members. I want to thank the British people for the many millions of pounds that they spent to provide us in Moggill with a great way to understand the Gospel!
We also need to thank the children who participate in our children’s ministry for their insights; they sometimes help us to see the apparently complex in simple, clear ways. With two weeks of considering how we hear, know and follow the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, we know that God has said that He made us, knows us, loves us and has sent Jesus to save us. Jesus says that he knows us, loves us and has come that we might have life in all its fullness forever with God and he says, “Follow me.”
We also need to thank the children who participate in our children’s ministry for their insights; they sometimes help us to see the apparently complex in simple, clear ways. With two weeks of considering how we hear, know and follow the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, we know that God has said that He made us, knows us, loves us and has sent Jesus to save us. Jesus says that he knows us, loves us and has come that we might have life in all its fullness forever with God and he says, “Follow me.”
In this vein, we have decided that our Church Children’s Craft (St Michael’s CCC) will be both part of our Sunday Morning worship and also in the church on Market days from 9 to 10 am. I have two volunteers who are helping the children with this craft and the story behind each session, but I would welcome some more help.
In this vein, we have decided that our Church Children’s Craft (St Michael’s CCC) will be both part of our Sunday Morning worship and also in the church on Market days from 9 to 10 am. I have two volunteers who are helping the children with this craft and the story behind each session, but I would welcome some more help.
This Sunday Jesus leads us to transition from Easter with its focus on Jesus death and resurrection and he starts teaching us about the coming Holy Spirit.
This Sunday Jesus leads us to transition from Easter with its focus on Jesus death and resurrection and he starts teaching us about the coming Holy Spirit.
This week around the church we had an informal visit from our Archdeacon Bronwyn Pagram and some great preparation work was done (thanks team) for our new sign.
This week around the church we had an informal visit from our Archdeacon Bronwyn Pagram and some great preparation work was done (thanks team) for our new sign.
May Jesus who calls you by name, now and forever, give you life in all its fullness, and, as your shepherd, lead you home forever.
May Jesus who calls you by name, now and forever, give you life in all its fullness, and, as your shepherd, lead you home forever.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
14 May 2023
Reflection from the Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC Fifth Sunday of Easter 7 May 2023
Reflection from the Venerable Rob Sutherland CSC Fifth Sunday of Easter 7 May 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
The reason we are still in the Easter season is that Easter is so momentous for us and for the whole world for all of time – it does take a good few weeks to let the true impact and meaning sink in - Christ is risen indeed!
The reason we are still in the Easter season is that Easter is so momentous for us and for the whole world for all of time – it does take a good few weeks to let the true impact and meaning sink in - Christ is risen indeed!
Last Sunday we reflected upon hearing the voice of Jesus; the voice that calls us by name saying, “I love you. I came that you may have life in all its fullness. Follow me.” This Sunday in church St Thomas, one of my favourite saints, St Thomas, who was the one who was not afraid to ask Jesus the obvious questions, leads us to Jesus wonderful answer of the way to eternal life with God in his home forever. I’m not sure if you prefer the translation in which Jesus promises us each a mansion in God’s house or if a room in God’s house is sufficient for you; either way this week we have part two of the sermon series looking at why we need Easter.
Last Sunday we reflected upon hearing the voice of Jesus; the voice that calls us by name saying, “I love you. I came that you may have life in all its fullness. Follow me.” This Sunday in church St Thomas, one of my favourite saints, St Thomas, who was the one who was not afraid to ask Jesus the obvious questions, leads us to Jesus wonderful answer of the way to eternal life with God in his home forever. I’m not sure if you prefer the translation in which Jesus promises us each a mansion in God’s house or if a room in God’s house is sufficient for you; either way this week we have part two of the sermon series looking at why we need Easter.
We each will have our own perspectives on the coronation of King Charles III. Love, like, loathe or indifferent, the coronation will be impossible to ignore or avoid. As well as being King of Australia, King Charles will take on the title ‘Defender of the Faith’ and will be the titular head of the Anglican Communion of which we are part.
We each will have our own perspectives on the coronation of King Charles III. Love, like, loathe or indifferent, the coronation will be impossible to ignore or avoid. As well as being King of Australia, King Charles will take on the title ‘Defender of the Faith’ and will be the titular head of the Anglican Communion of which we are part.
The Governor-General is our Head of State, Commander-in-Chief of our Defence Forces and the authority who signs into effect all of our laws and appoints our elected leaders. King Charles has a similar effect upon our church. Our real church leaders are Australian and we need a new Archbishop more than a new king, nevertheless, I invite you to join me in prayer for His Majesty. Details of the Service of Evensong to mark the Coronation in St John’s Cathedral this evening are in the notices.
The Governor-General is our Head of State, Commander-in-Chief of our Defence Forces and the authority who signs into effect all of our laws and appoints our elected leaders. King Charles has a similar effect upon our church. Our real church leaders are Australian and we need a new Archbishop more than a new king, nevertheless, I invite you to join me in prayer for His Majesty. Details of the Service of Evensong to mark the Coronation in St John’s Cathedral this evening are in the notices.
May Jesus now and forever give you life in all its fullness and as shepherd lead you home forever.
May Jesus now and forever give you life in all its fullness and as shepherd lead you home forever.
Grace and peace and hope and life
Grace and peace and hope and life
Rob
7 May 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland Anzac Sunday
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland Anzac Sunday
Dear Friends,
Christ is risen indeed!
This Sunday we will commemorate our past and present ANZACs within our worship. There will be other
opportunities to remember those who have served, those who have died, those who have been wounded,
injured or become ill as a result of their service in our name and to remember their families. There will be
dawn services and marches on ANZAC Day and I commend them to you but this Sunday is our occasion to
think and to pray as Christians.
As Christians, we believe that Jesus taught that “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for
one’s friends.” And then Jesus did lay down his life for his friends, for us. We approach our commemoration
as people who believe that soldiers, sailors and aviators suffer not for their own sins but for the evil of others
in our world. Also, we believe that eternal life with our God is possible after death for all who have faith in
God; it is important that we include these in our ANZAC Commemoration.
Jesus victory over sin and death, eternal life in all its fullness, healing of moral and spiritual wounds are the
critical difference that our God and we his church offer those who have served in our nation’s and other
armed forces.
Because Jesus is risen, not only will we remember them, we also offer healing and hope.
We have a high concentration (4 times the national average) of current and former serving members and
families in our parish area. This Sunday we will thank God for the work of many to help our veterans and
families but it is not enough. With our local RSL subbranch and with DVA and with others we will explore
what we can do as a church to bring God’s healing and love, of which Jesus spoke and then showed us
personally, to our veterans and their families.
Grace and peace and hope and love
Rob
23 April 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland on second Sunday of Easter 16 April 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland on second Sunday of Easter 16 April 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Christ is risen indeed!
Christ is risen indeed!
As school holidays end and our world quickly moves to leave Easter behind, we will continue to live in the light of the risen Lord. To ignore the resurrection is to either ignore the inevitability of death – for the resurrection is hope in death, or to ignore God’s love – for Jesus, suffered, died and rose again because God loves each of us.
As school holidays end and our world quickly moves to leave Easter behind, we will continue to live in the light of the risen Lord. To ignore the resurrection is to either ignore the inevitability of death – for the resurrection is hope in death, or to ignore God’s love – for Jesus, suffered, died and rose again because God loves each of us.
So, I will be encouraging us to not let Easter slip past. We will continue to remember. Even very small Easter eggs will remind us of Jesus tomb and the stone being rolled away to reveal his resurrection. Christ is risen indeed!
So, I will be encouraging us to not let Easter slip past. We will continue to remember. Even very small Easter eggs will remind us of Jesus tomb and the stone being rolled away to reveal his resurrection. Christ is risen indeed!
This Sunday we again explore the ‘unbelievable’ evidence of the witnesses and ‘Thomas the honest’ brings the evidence of the resurrection and the struggle to believe it into focus.
This Sunday we again explore the ‘unbelievable’ evidence of the witnesses and ‘Thomas the honest’ brings the evidence of the resurrection and the struggle to believe it into focus.
My great thanks to everyone who worked to make our Holy week and Easter services so meaningful. Our God, his power and his love were truly encountered and worshipped in physical action or symbol, in word and in music.
My great thanks to everyone who worked to make our Holy week and Easter services so meaningful. Our God, his power and his love were truly encountered and worshipped in physical action or symbol, in word and in music.
Next week, on Sunday 23 April, ANZAC Sunday, we will be remembering those who have served our nation and other nations in Armed Forces; we will particularly remember those who have suffered, those who have died and the families and all who have been affected by war. Doing this in church allows us to reflect theologically and also to pray unhindered by the views of those around us. It also allows us all freedom to join other ceremonies on ANZAC Day. Please feel welcome to wear medals and I invite you to add names to our own parish ‘Honour Roll’.
Next week, on Sunday 23 April, ANZAC Sunday, we will be remembering those who have served our nation and other nations in Armed Forces; we will particularly remember those who have suffered, those who have died and the families and all who have been affected by war. Doing this in church allows us to reflect theologically and also to pray unhindered by the views of those around us. It also allows us all freedom to join other ceremonies on ANZAC Day. Please feel welcome to wear medals and I invite you to add names to our own parish ‘Honour Roll’.
Our children on ANZAC Sunday will have the opportunity to make their own poppies and wreaths.
Our children on ANZAC Sunday will have the opportunity to make their own poppies and wreaths.
On our second Sunday of Easter - Jesus Christ is Risen indeed! We will journey in this belief and hope for the rest of our year.
On our second Sunday of Easter - Jesus Christ is Risen indeed! We will journey in this belief and hope for the rest of our year.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
16 April 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland on Easter Day 9 April 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland on Easter Day 9 April 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Christ is Risen Indeed!
Christ is Risen Indeed!
Today we celebrate with joy the testimony, the evidence of angels and actual human witnesses that Jesus of Nazareth, the one whom the Romans and the Jewish leaders crucified, Jesus has risen from his tomb.
Today we celebrate with joy the testimony, the evidence of angels and actual human witnesses that Jesus of Nazareth, the one whom the Romans and the Jewish leaders crucified, Jesus has risen from his tomb.
A more momentous event in history there has not yet been. This event is recorded history but it also changed the whole course of history and the course of eternity.
A more momentous event in history there has not yet been. This event is recorded history but it also changed the whole course of history and the course of eternity.
For those of us who believe that Jesus is the Son of God; that Jesus brought and is God’s salvation; this event is an enormous victory. For those who believe, the death, that we all face, is not the end. For us, life in God’s perfect house, perfectly loved is now shown, proved, to be possible.
For those of us who believe that Jesus is the Son of God; that Jesus brought and is God’s salvation; this event is an enormous victory. For those who believe, the death, that we all face, is not the end. For us, life in God’s perfect house, perfectly loved is now shown, proved, to be possible.
Jesus resurrection (and of course the death which preceded it) is the fulfilment of thousands of years of prophecy and millions of years within God’s physical creation. What was just a hope and a promise, on Easter morning became a reality.
Jesus resurrection (and of course the death which preceded it) is the fulfilment of thousands of years of prophecy and millions of years within God’s physical creation. What was just a hope and a promise, on Easter morning became a reality.
On Easter Sunday morning we will light the Paschal Candle at the New Fire Service at 6:30 am followed by breakfast before Holy Communion at 8:30 am. The 8:30 service will be focussed on families and we will have an extended all-age children’s and families’ talk instead of the sermon.
On Easter Sunday morning we will light the Paschal Candle at the New Fire Service at 6:30 am followed by breakfast before Holy Communion at 8:30 am. The 8:30 service will be focussed on families and we will have an extended all-age children’s and families’ talk instead of the sermon.
Again, if you aren’t able to be with us on Easter Day, the readings and the talk will be on the web-site.
Again, if you aren’t able to be with us on Easter Day, the readings and the talk will be on the web-site.
Finally, my thanks to all who have tidied up around our church and grounds this week – looks good!
Finally, my thanks to all who have tidied up around our church and grounds this week – looks good!
Jesus Christ is Risen indeed! From here on we will journey in this belief and hope for the rest of our year.
Jesus Christ is Risen indeed! From here on we will journey in this belief and hope for the rest of our year.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland on 2 April 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland on 2 April 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
This is Holy Week when we remember the journey that Jesus took from the absolute high of the crowd adulation on Palm Sunday through the Last Supper and his Good Friday death on the cross to Easter morning. I absolutely understand the busy-ness of each family and person but, I encourage everyone to find a way and a time to think of the events, the things that happened on the way to Easter.
This is Holy Week when we remember the journey that Jesus took from the absolute high of the crowd adulation on Palm Sunday through the Last Supper and his Good Friday death on the cross to Easter morning. I absolutely understand the busy-ness of each family and person but, I encourage everyone to find a way and a time to think of the events, the things that happened on the way to Easter.
In our church we will be offering special services that help to remember and give meaning to this journey. If you are able to join us that would be wonderful but if not please try to find your own time and place to remember and reflect. I hope to be putting the readings and a reflection for the following activities on our website.
In our church we will be offering special services that help to remember and give meaning to this journey. If you are able to join us that would be wonderful but if not please try to find your own time and place to remember and reflect. I hope to be putting the readings and a reflection for the following activities on our website.
Thursday is Maundy Thursday. At 6pm in the church, we will remember the last supper including Jesus washing the disciples feet. There are four chapters of John’s Gospel that cover Jesus’s teaching this night; we are not using it all; but the night before Jesus died was a momentous occasion.
Thursday is Maundy Thursday. At 6pm in the church, we will remember the last supper including Jesus washing the disciples feet. There are four chapters of John’s Gospel that cover Jesus’s teaching this night; we are not using it all; but the night before Jesus died was a momentous occasion.
2000 years ago, on Good Friday there was much more going on than on Easter morning. At 8:30 on Friday in church we will remember the events leading to and culminating in Jesus’s death on the cross. It’s an opportunity for us to remember that ‘it was our sins that held him there until it was accomplished – his dying breath has brought us life.’
2000 years ago, on Good Friday there was much more going on than on Easter morning. At 8:30 on Friday in church we will remember the events leading to and culminating in Jesus’s death on the cross. It’s an opportunity for us to remember that ‘it was our sins that held him there until it was accomplished – his dying breath has brought us life.’
On Easter Sunday we will light the Paschal Candle at the New Fire Service at 6:30 am followed by breakfast before Holy Communion at 8:30 am. The 8:30 service will be focussed on families and we will have an extended families talk instead of the sermon.
On Easter Sunday we will light the Paschal Candle at the New Fire Service at 6:30 am followed by breakfast before Holy Communion at 8:30 am. The 8:30 service will be focussed on families and we will have an extended families talk instead of the sermon.
Again, if you aren’t able to be with us on Easter Day, the readings and the talk will be on the web-site.
Again, if you aren’t able to be with us on Easter Day, the readings and the talk will be on the web-site.
I’m travelling to Perth today for the Government launch of a Veterans Chaplaincy Pilot Project; please pray for me and for the project.
I’m travelling to Perth today for the Government launch of a Veterans Chaplaincy Pilot Project; please pray for me and for the project.
I pray that this Holy Week and Easter, the reality of how great and how personal God’s love for you is.
I pray that this Holy Week and Easter, the reality of how great and how personal God’s love for you is.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
2 April 2023
2 April 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland:
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland:
FIFTH SUNDAY IN LENT 26 March 2023
FIFTH SUNDAY IN LENT 26 March 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
Easter is very nearly upon us. Even though it coincides with school holidays, the world around us may pause only for the public holidays. For many, Easter is now just holidays and Easter eggs but for us Easter is the high point in a journey. The journey to Easter starts with God’s creation through to Jesus birth at Christmas. The Son of God’s life on earth includes his ministry as well as all the events leading to his death only then can we have Easter.
Easter is very nearly upon us. Even though it coincides with school holidays, the world around us may pause only for the public holidays. For many, Easter is now just holidays and Easter eggs but for us Easter is the high point in a journey. The journey to Easter starts with God’s creation through to Jesus birth at Christmas. The Son of God’s life on earth includes his ministry as well as all the events leading to his death only then can we have Easter.
Jesus has called us to be the light of the world. He means that our lives and our words are to shine the life and hope and love that God gives us into the world around us.
Jesus has called us to be the light of the world. He means that our lives and our words are to shine the life and hope and love that God gives us into the world around us.
This Sunday we reflect upon Ezekiel’s dream from God of the valley of dry bones being reconnected and coming to life in the power of God’s spirit. We then have Lazarus the dead man being called by Jesus back to life and to come out of the tomb. It was this miracle that caused the religious leaders to seek to put Jesus to death. Lazarus reflects both the cost of following Jesus – he died and the amazing power and life of God – Jesus brought him back to life.
This Sunday we reflect upon Ezekiel’s dream from God of the valley of dry bones being reconnected and coming to life in the power of God’s spirit. We then have Lazarus the dead man being called by Jesus back to life and to come out of the tomb. It was this miracle that caused the religious leaders to seek to put Jesus to death. Lazarus reflects both the cost of following Jesus – he died and the amazing power and life of God – Jesus brought him back to life.
Next Saturday is once again market day. We will continue to offer our children’s craft in the church – probably with a valley of dry bones and putting eggs back together theme.
Next Saturday is once again market day. We will continue to offer our children’s craft in the church – probably with a valley of dry bones and putting eggs back together theme.
I’ve asked Parish Council to explore us entering and leaving the church through the hall – particularly for Easter when we often have about double our normal number of people in church.
I’ve asked Parish Council to explore us entering and leaving the church through the hall – particularly for Easter when we often have about double our normal number of people in church.
Please pray that we each personally know God’s light, love and life and in our lives shine to the world around us.
Please pray that we each personally know God’s light, love and life and in our lives shine to the world around us.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
26 March 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland:
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland:
FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT – 19th MARCH 2023.
FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT – 19th MARCH 2023.
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
If we needed reminding, the Easter Eggs and Hot Crossed Buns would do it for us. Easter is nearly upon us. Details of our Holy Week and Easter services are in this bulletin but I’m trying to not race ahead. I’m trying to get the most out of the time of reflection and preparation that Lent provides. It’s not quite time to turn off the air-conditioner and put away swimmers but this is a time of transition.
If we needed reminding, the Easter Eggs and Hot Crossed Buns would do it for us. Easter is nearly upon us. Details of our Holy Week and Easter services are in this bulletin but I’m trying to not race ahead. I’m trying to get the most out of the time of reflection and preparation that Lent provides. It’s not quite time to turn off the air-conditioner and put away swimmers but this is a time of transition.
Many of the images that we have in our Bible readings in Lent make Easter more meaningful, indeed they make heaven more meaningful. Jesus light that shines in the darkness is more personally meaningful if we take time to know the world’s darkness. Jesus living water which both washes us but also sustains by giving our lives meaning and purpose, this water makes more sense if we know hopelessness and meaninglessness.
Many of the images that we have in our Bible readings in Lent make Easter more meaningful, indeed they make heaven more meaningful. Jesus light that shines in the darkness is more personally meaningful if we take time to know the world’s darkness. Jesus living water which both washes us but also sustains by giving our lives meaning and purpose, this water makes more sense if we know hopelessness and meaninglessness.
This week’s readings include Psalm 23. David speaks of his assurance of God’s love and protection even through the valley of the shadow of death.
This week’s readings include Psalm 23. David speaks of his assurance of God’s love and protection even through the valley of the shadow of death.
This Lent let us take time to acknowledge the darkness, hopelessness and the shadow of death and then to let God’s light and life and meaning and love and hope shine in our lives.
This Lent let us take time to acknowledge the darkness, hopelessness and the shadow of death and then to let God’s light and life and meaning and love and hope shine in our lives.
Please pray for our Parish Council as we meet this Sunday after church to discuss the issues which affect us all. We will be looking at what and how we can continue to develop the many, many ministry opportunities that God is giving us. The harvest around us is very plentiful let us pray that God will empower us to reap what God has sown – our community needs us to do this.
Please pray for our Parish Council as we meet this Sunday after church to discuss the issues which affect us all. We will be looking at what and how we can continue to develop the many, many ministry opportunities that God is giving us. The harvest around us is very plentiful let us pray that God will empower us to reap what God has sown – our community needs us to do this.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
Rob
12 March 2023
12 March 2023
THIRD SUNDAY IN LENT – 12th MARCH 2023.
THIRD SUNDAY IN LENT – 12th MARCH 2023.
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I have thanked our Bishop John Roundhill, Bishop of the Southern Region for the enthusiasm, wisdom and love that he brought us last Sunday. I expressed our appreciation of his sharing with us in word and sacrament. His 5 point sermon on John 3:16 is on our website and I have promised to not get the tattoo that he mentioned on my forehead.
I have thanked our Bishop John Roundhill, Bishop of the Southern Region for the enthusiasm, wisdom and love that he brought us last Sunday. I expressed our appreciation of his sharing with us in word and sacrament. His 5 point sermon on John 3:16 is on our website and I have promised to not get the tattoo that he mentioned on my forehead.
My thanks to all who contributed to the success of Bishop John’s visit. It was important for him to re-associate with us; our parish Council did a good job updating him on our issues.
My thanks to all who contributed to the success of Bishop John’s visit. It was important for him to re-associate with us; our parish Council did a good job updating him on our issues.
This Sunday we look at the source of what sustains our lives. Water is basic for life; more important than food – Jesus offers God’s living water for eternal life to those who need it most and then expects us to share it with those around us, but what does this mean?.
This Sunday we look at the source of what sustains our lives. Water is basic for life; more important than food – Jesus offers God’s living water for eternal life to those who need it most and then expects us to share it with those around us, but what does this mean?.
We are a very busy parish and people around us continue to warm to this. The Moggill Markets help our finances but much more than this they allow us to engage with our community. Thank you to those who enable us to also have the church open and who are here to talk to people who wander in about who we are. Market participants have enjoyed hearing the history of our building; children have enjoyed our ‘children’s talk craft;’ some have used our open-ness to raise pastoral concerns. There is more that we can do to use the opportunities the markets provide.
We are a very busy parish and people around us continue to warm to this. The Moggill Markets help our finances but much more than this they allow us to engage with our community. Thank you to those who enable us to also have the church open and who are here to talk to people who wander in about who we are. Market participants have enjoyed hearing the history of our building; children have enjoyed our ‘children’s talk craft;’ some have used our open-ness to raise pastoral concerns. There is more that we can do to use the opportunities the markets provide.
Our Lenten Bible Studies this week look at the paralysed man who is lowered through to a roof in front of Jesus. Jesus shows us the importance of spiritual and physical healing. These weekly studies are suitable if you are only able to come once or twice – you are welcome to join me on Wednesday mornings at 8:30 am or join Angela on Friday evenings at 5:15 pm.
Our Lenten Bible Studies this week look at the paralysed man who is lowered through to a roof in front of Jesus. Jesus shows us the importance of spiritual and physical healing. These weekly studies are suitable if you are only able to come once or twice – you are welcome to join me on Wednesday mornings at 8:30 am or join Angela on Friday evenings at 5:15 pm.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
12 March 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland
SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT – 5th MARCH 2023.
SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT – 5th MARCH 2023.
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
A warm – yes, summer seems like it’s still here – welcome to Bishop John Roundhill, Bishop of the Southern Region of our Diocese, who joins us this morning. I hope that as many as possible take time to engage with him so that he takes away a true understanding of who we are. After morning tea he will have a meeting with our new parish council but this Sunday morning is our time with our bishop.
A warm – yes, summer seems like it’s still here – welcome to Bishop John Roundhill, Bishop of the Southern Region of our Diocese, who joins us this morning. I hope that as many as possible take time to engage with him so that he takes away a true understanding of who we are. After morning tea he will have a meeting with our new parish council but this Sunday morning is our time with our bishop.
The Annual General Meeting last Sunday was encouraging. I am grateful for the work that went into preparing the reports; grateful that they were brief and particularly thankful for all the work in and around our church and parish that was reported. We elected wardens, parish nominators and parish councillors. I announced the appointments of Bronwen Thomas as my warden and Angela McNeil to parish council. Details of the new parish council are in the notices.
The Annual General Meeting last Sunday was encouraging. I am grateful for the work that went into preparing the reports; grateful that they were brief and particularly thankful for all the work in and around our church and parish that was reported. We elected wardens, parish nominators and parish councillors. I announced the appointments of Bronwen Thomas as my warden and Angela McNeil to parish council. Details of the new parish council are in the notices.
This week we have commenced our Lenten Bible Studies looking at Legion – The Gerasene Demoniac. Mental and spiritual health is so very relevant to our times. In other studies Legion is considered to have been a Roman veteran who is dealing with the effects of his military service. I have been encouraged to think about what our role as God’s church might be for the veterans living in our community. The Census indicated that we have a high concentration of veterans.
This week we have commenced our Lenten Bible Studies looking at Legion – The Gerasene Demoniac. Mental and spiritual health is so very relevant to our times. In other studies Legion is considered to have been a Roman veteran who is dealing with the effects of his military service. I have been encouraged to think about what our role as God’s church might be for the veterans living in our community. The Census indicated that we have a high concentration of veterans.
The other question that came out in my discussion group was how we should continue to become a prayerful parish. Gathered worship is important as are Morning and Evening Prayer but how do we become a parish where 2 or 3 gather to pray in Jesus name; how do we become people that pray without ceasing? I will offer more on this over coming weeks.
The other question that came out in my discussion group was how we should continue to become a prayerful parish. Gathered worship is important as are Morning and Evening Prayer but how do we become a parish where 2 or 3 gather to pray in Jesus name; how do we become people that pray without ceasing? I will offer more on this over coming weeks.
It is not too late to join our Lenten studies; please talk to Angela if you would like to join her Friday evening group or to me if you would like to join me on Wednesday morning. Details of how to access the study book are again in the notices.
It is not too late to join our Lenten studies; please talk to Angela if you would like to join her Friday evening group or to me if you would like to join me on Wednesday morning. Details of how to access the study book are again in the notices.
Grace and peace and hope
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
Rob
5 March 2023
5 March 2023
FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT – 26th FEBRUARY 2023.
Dear Friends,
It seems anachronistic to say “Welcome to Lent,” but I value the opportunity that this season of preparation affords us. We will use this time of preparation for Easter to look at our relationship with God and also with those people and things that God has put into our lives. Having unwrapped God’s Christmas present to us, what are we doing with it?
This morning we have our Annual general Meeting after church. As I said last week, if you are able to be part of this that would be helpful. I hope that the meeting will be light on reports, which are the past, and strong on the future. I have asked that reports be printed for pre-reading and that those presenting reports limit themselves to a maximum of three points. I want the hard work that so many have done this past year to be recognised; it is a great foundation for our coming year.
Next Sunday we have Bishop John Roundhill, our Regional Bishop joining us. He has volunteered to give the children’s talk and to preach do the other normal things bishops do when they visit. This is our opportunity for us to listen to him but also for him, representing our dioces, to listen to us. He wants to meet as many as possible particularly over morning tea. Bishop John will also meet with our new Parish Council.
This Sunday has led to the traditions of fasting and abstinence for which Lent is unfortunately known. Although there is benefit in a period of time without things that distract us from God, this is not going to be my focus in Lent. And, even purists acknowledge that every Sunday in Lent remains a celebration of Jesus’ resurrection and love for us. (Yes, we can still have morning tea and cake after church on Sundays).
This week we commence our Lenten studies; please talk to Angela if you would like to join her Friday evening group or to me if you would like to join me on Wednesday morning. Details of how to access the study book are again in the notices
I’ve repeated the notice with details of how to support the people of Syria and Turkey through ABM. Although we know we must all die some time, this is a desperately sad time for millions of our fellow human beings.
Grace and peace and hope
Rob
26 Feb 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland: 19 February 2023
Reflection from The Reverend Rob Sutherland: 19 February 2023
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
I am encouraged by the suggestions, feedback and support that I have received from so many of you. Encouraging also to have so many people worshipping. Our young people certainly add vibrancy. (Thank you to those who have tidied things up around the church). I look forward to sharing and discussing more of our vision at the Annual general Meeting after church next Sunday (26 Feb). If you are able to attend to be part of this that would be helpful. Don’t worry about being elected to something you weren’t expecting; we have sufficient for Parish Council (but happy to have more). I hope that the meeting will be light on reports, which are the past, and strong on the future.
I am encouraged by the suggestions, feedback and support that I have received from so many of you. Encouraging also to have so many people worshipping. Our young people certainly add vibrancy. (Thank you to those who have tidied things up around the church). I look forward to sharing and discussing more of our vision at the Annual general Meeting after church next Sunday (26 Feb). If you are able to attend to be part of this that would be helpful. Don’t worry about being elected to something you weren’t expecting; we have sufficient for Parish Council (but happy to have more). I hope that the meeting will be light on reports, which are the past, and strong on the future.
This last Sunday before Lent, we will ‘wrap up’ our series on unwrapping God’s Christmas gift to us. Then on Wednesday we commence our season of Lent. There is much ‘bad press’ about Lent. It is supposed to be a season of preparation, getting ourselves ready for Easter. We will use it as a time for our annual check-up, a bit like we should do with our GP or a car service. Most readings in Lent come from St John’s Gospel. John isn’t as interested in the facts about Jesus; these were written in the pre-ceding Gospels; John is looking at our relationship with God and this we shall also do as our check-up.
This last Sunday before Lent, we will ‘wrap up’ our series on unwrapping God’s Christmas gift to us. Then on Wednesday we commence our season of Lent. There is much ‘bad press’ about Lent. It is supposed to be a season of preparation, getting ourselves ready for Easter. We will use it as a time for our annual check-up, a bit like we should do with our GP or a car service. Most readings in Lent come from St John’s Gospel. John isn’t as interested in the facts about Jesus; these were written in the pre-ceding Gospels; John is looking at our relationship with God and this we shall also do as our check-up.
We will have Holy Communion and ‘imposition of ashes’ in the church on Ash Wednesday at 8:00 am and 6:00 pm. Details of our special Lenten activities and services are in the Notices section below.
We will have Holy Communion and ‘imposition of ashes’ in the church on Ash Wednesday at 8:00 am and 6:00 pm. Details of our special Lenten activities and services are in the Notices section below.
Our Bible Studies will use the ABM resource The Imaginary Doorway. Details of how to get this are in the Notices. You can join one of our groups, (….. Evening, Wednesday Morning) or form another group if you wish. You can also do the study on your own.
Our Bible Studies will use the ABM resource The Imaginary Doorway. Details of how to get this are in the Notices. You can join one of our groups, (….. Evening, Wednesday Morning) or form another group if you wish. You can also do the study on your own.
I’ve been asked, “What can we do to help the people of Turkey and Syria after the earthquake?” Trying to help is complicated and our wanting to do good has to be tempered by what will actually help. The most effective thing we can do is to help an existing organisation with the right networks and resources. I have included a Notice on how to donate to ABM. This seems to be the most appropriate and effective option.
I’ve been asked, “What can we do to help the people of Turkey and Syria after the earthquake?” Trying to help is complicated and our wanting to do good has to be tempered by what will actually help. The most effective thing we can do is to help an existing organisation with the right networks and resources. I have included a Notice on how to donate to ABM. This seems to be the most appropriate and effective option.
Grace and peace and hope Rob 19 Feb 2023
Grace and peace and hope Rob 19 Feb 2023
Reverend John Cuffe's Reflection
Reverend John Cuffe's Reflection
Fourth Sunday After Epiphany 29 January 2023
Fourth Sunday After Epiphany 29 January 2023
THE EPIPHANY
THE EPIPHANY
CHARLES
CHARLES
King of England
King of England
born 1600 died 1649
born 1600 died 1649
On the day of his execution the Eikon Basilike was published, bearing the subtitle The Portraiture oh His Sacred Majesty in his Solitudes and Sufferings. The dead monarch was acclaimed as a martyr. Charles was not a good politician or even a good monarch but his private life is believed to have been one of high moral purity and beauty. He has since been reckoned a martyr by some Anglicans because his execution ultimately resulted from his resolution to defend the Church. His prayer is well-known.
On the day of his execution the Eikon Basilike was published, bearing the subtitle The Portraiture oh His Sacred Majesty in his Solitudes and Sufferings. The dead monarch was acclaimed as a martyr. Charles was not a good politician or even a good monarch but his private life is believed to have been one of high moral purity and beauty. He has since been reckoned a martyr by some Anglicans because his execution ultimately resulted from his resolution to defend the Church. His prayer is well-known.
O Lord, make Thy way plain before me. Let Thy glory be my end, Thy word my rule; and then Thy will be done. Amen.
O Lord, make Thy way plain before me. Let Thy glory be my end, Thy word my rule; and then Thy will be done. Amen.
THE PRESENTATION OF CHRIST IN THE TEMPLE
THE PRESENTATION OF CHRIST IN THE TEMPLE
Or the Purification of St Mary the Virgin
Or the Purification of St Mary the Virgin
Joseph redeemed Jesus at this ceremony. Every first-born son was consecrated to God from birth. He must be ‘brought back’ to ilve with his family. Mary had to make the customary purification-offering after the birth of a chid. Both events were traditional for Jewish fathers and mothers. Presentation and purification are both suitable, scriptural words for describing the festive occasion. But the real significance of the day is in a meeting: the meeting of Simeon and Jesus. There is the essential continuity between the old dispensation and the new. Simeon recognised the child as ‘the Lord’s promised Messiah’ who was to ‘bring glory to your people Israel’ (Luke 2.32). No doubt he was still thinking in terms of the glory associated with David and Jerusalem. But there enters the thought that the glory, which is certainly to come, will be born from suffering and humiliation, there is to be a crown but not with a cross. ‘And sorrow, like a sharp sword, will break your own heart.’ (Luke 2.35). In the Christian Year, John Keble wrote one of his best known verses for this festival:
Joseph redeemed Jesus at this ceremony. Every first-born son was consecrated to God from birth. He must be ‘brought back’ to ilve with his family. Mary had to make the customary purification-offering after the birth of a chid. Both events were traditional for Jewish fathers and mothers. Presentation and purification are both suitable, scriptural words for describing the festive occasion. But the real significance of the day is in a meeting: the meeting of Simeon and Jesus. There is the essential continuity between the old dispensation and the new. Simeon recognised the child as ‘the Lord’s promised Messiah’ who was to ‘bring glory to your people Israel’ (Luke 2.32). No doubt he was still thinking in terms of the glory associated with David and Jerusalem. But there enters the thought that the glory, which is certainly to come, will be born from suffering and humiliation, there is to be a crown but not with a cross. ‘And sorrow, like a sharp sword, will break your own heart.’ (Luke 2.35). In the Christian Year, John Keble wrote one of his best known verses for this festival:
Still to the lowly soul He doth Himself impart, And for His cradle and His throne Chooseth the pure in heart.
Still to the lowly soul He doth Himself impart, And for His cradle and His throne Chooseth the pure in heart.
Third Sunday After Epiphany 22 January 2023
Third Sunday After Epiphany 22 January 2023
Reflection Saints in the Lectionary this week.
Reflection Saints in the Lectionary this week.
THE EPIPHANY 6 January – Principal Feast
THE EPIPHANY 6 January – Principal Feast
The subtitle in the Book of Common Prayer of this, one of the principal feasts of the Church, is “The Manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles” This emphasises that. From the moment of Incarnation, the good news of Jesus Christ is for all: Jew and Gentile, the wise and the simple, male and female. Nothing in the Greek text of the gospels indicates that the Magi were all male and even the number three and making them Kings is a much later, non-scriptural tradition. The date chosen to celebrate this feast goes back to the placing of the feast of the Nativity of Christ in the winter solstice: The north European pre-Christian tradition of celebrating the birth of the Sun on 25 December differed from the Mediterranean and eastern tradition of having 6 January as the Solstice. As often happens, the
The subtitle in the Book of Common Prayer of this, one of the principal feasts of the Church, is “The Manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles” This emphasises that. From the moment of Incarnation, the good news of Jesus Christ is for all: Jew and Gentile, the wise and the simple, male and female. Nothing in the Greek text of the gospels indicates that the Magi were all male and even the number three and making them Kings is a much later, non-scriptural tradition. The date chosen to celebrate this feast goes back to the placing of the feast of the Nativity of Christ in the winter solstice: The north European pre-Christian tradition of celebrating the birth of the Sun on 25 December differed from the Mediterranean and eastern tradition of having 6 January as the Solstice. As often happens, the
two dates merged into a beginning and an end of the same celebration. The western church adopted ‘the twelve days of Christmas’ climaxing of the eve of Epiphany, or ‘Twelfth Night’. The implication by the fifth century was that this was the night on which Magi arrived. The complications of dating became even more confused with the changing in the West from the Julian to the Gregorian Calendar, the eastern church refusing to play any part in such radical change. So this day remains the chief day of celebrating the Incarnation in Orthodox Churches.
two dates merged into a beginning and an end of the same celebration. The western church adopted ‘the twelve days of Christmas’ climaxing of the eve of Epiphany, or ‘Twelfth Night’. The implication by the fifth century was that this was the night on which Magi arrived. The complications of dating became even more confused with the changing in the West from the Julian to the Gregorian Calendar, the eastern church refusing to play any part in such radical change. So this day remains the chief day of celebrating the Incarnation in Orthodox Churches.
THE CONVERSION OF PAUL 25 January – Festival – Apostle.
THE CONVERSION OF PAUL 25 January – Festival – Apostle.
The conversion of the anti-Christian zealot, Saul, to the apostle of Christ, Paul, is clearly related in the reading from the Acts of the Apostles, but it has to be remembered that this was a beginning: Saul took some time to become Paul and some time to begin to understand that his call to preach – to Jew and to Gentile – the saving power of Jesus, the Son of God, was something that was a whole life’s journey for him. Paul says in his Letter to the Church in Galatia, “God set me apart before I was born and called me through his grace......three years after (the Damascus Road conversion), I went up to Jerusalem.” The preparation for this moment of his conversion was his whole life. The feast has been celebrated in the Church since the sixth century but became universal in the twelfth century.
The conversion of the anti-Christian zealot, Saul, to the apostle of Christ, Paul, is clearly related in the reading from the Acts of the Apostles, but it has to be remembered that this was a beginning: Saul took some time to become Paul and some time to begin to understand that his call to preach – to Jew and to Gentile – the saving power of Jesus, the Son of God, was something that was a whole life’s journey for him. Paul says in his Letter to the Church in Galatia, “God set me apart before I was born and called me through his grace......three years after (the Damascus Road conversion), I went up to Jerusalem.” The preparation for this moment of his conversion was his whole life. The feast has been celebrated in the Church since the sixth century but became universal in the twelfth century.
Second Sunday After Epiphany 15 January 2023
Second Sunday After Epiphany 15 January 2023
Saints in the Lectionary this week.
Saints in the Lectionary this week.
WILLIAM LAUD
WILLIAM LAUD
Archbishop of Canterbury, Theologian
Archbishop of Canterbury, Theologian
Born 1573 Died 1645
Born 1573 Died 1645
It is surely the most abysmal depths of the odium theologicum when an old man of seventy-two is dragged to execution at the axeman’s block, but this was the fate of William Laud. The frail old Archbishop of Canterbury had been unwise in his time; he had enforced his notions of law and order on the church, he had preached the Divine Right of Kings and shared in the cruelty of cruel times. But he aimed at something more: the beauty of holiness expressed in ordered worship and buildings, the strength of Anglicanism is an expression of the faith of the undivided church and a breadth in theology if not in practice. It all fell with the Royalist cause. On the scaffold an angry crowd sneered at him but the old man was not afraid. He died proclaiming his faith in ‘the true orthodox profession of the Catholic faith of Christ within the living part thereof, the present Church of England as it stands established by law.’
It is surely the most abysmal depths of the odium theologicum when an old man of seventy-two is dragged to execution at the axeman’s block, but this was the fate of William Laud. The frail old Archbishop of Canterbury had been unwise in his time; he had enforced his notions of law and order on the church, he had preached the Divine Right of Kings and shared in the cruelty of cruel times. But he aimed at something more: the beauty of holiness expressed in ordered worship and buildings, the strength of Anglicanism is an expression of the faith of the undivided church and a breadth in theology if not in practice. It all fell with the Royalist cause. On the scaffold an angry crowd sneered at him but the old man was not afraid. He died proclaiming his faith in ‘the true orthodox profession of the Catholic faith of Christ within the living part thereof, the present Church of England as it stands established by law.’
HILARY OF POITIERS
HILARY OF POITIERS
French Bishop and Teacher
French Bishop and Teacher
Born 315 Died 367
Born 315 Died 367
Hilary came to Christ when he was mature in age, philosophical training and literary skill. He was drawn to Faith because he wanted a truth which philosophy could not yield. His conviction that Christianity was true came through a thorough, independent criticism of the Scriptures. His greatest work De Trinitate gives great space to the proof that Christ is God and Man and that through this union the union of man and God will come: “We shall be promoted to a glory conformable to that of Him Who became Man for us, being renewed unto the knowledge of God, and created again in the image of the Creator.”
Hilary came to Christ when he was mature in age, philosophical training and literary skill. He was drawn to Faith because he wanted a truth which philosophy could not yield. His conviction that Christianity was true came through a thorough, independent criticism of the Scriptures. His greatest work De Trinitate gives great space to the proof that Christ is God and Man and that through this union the union of man and God will come: “We shall be promoted to a glory conformable to that of Him Who became Man for us, being renewed unto the knowledge of God, and created again in the image of the Creator.”
SAVA
SAVA
Founder and first archbishop
Founder and first archbishop
Of the Serbian Church
Of the Serbian Church
Born 1176 Died 1235
Born 1176 Died 1235
Sava was a prince of the blood in the dynasty of Stephen Nemanya, King of Serbia. He left his home to become an Orthodox monk on Mount Athos. He was soon joined by his father who abdicated in favour of his eldest son. Sava and his father founded a monastery which was to be centre of Serbian culture for centuries. In Twelve-nineteen Sava was consecrated at Nicaea as Archbishop of Serbia. The autocephalous churches of Orthodoxy have played a vital role in the growth of Christianity. The Gospel cannot be shared in a cultural vacuum but must be expressed in terms of a culture, without distortion and with faithfulness to the original.
Sava was a prince of the blood in the dynasty of Stephen Nemanya, King of Serbia. He left his home to become an Orthodox monk on Mount Athos. He was soon joined by his father who abdicated in favour of his eldest son. Sava and his father founded a monastery which was to be centre of Serbian culture for centuries. In Twelve-nineteen Sava was consecrated at Nicaea as Archbishop of Serbia. The autocephalous churches of Orthodoxy have played a vital role in the growth of Christianity. The Gospel cannot be shared in a cultural vacuum but must be expressed in terms of a culture, without distortion and with faithfulness to the original.
THE BAPTISM OF OUR LORD 8th JANUARY.
EPIPHANY ONE
Reflection
THE EPIPHANY
or The Manifestation of Christ in the Gentiles
The long search for God and His truth has not been limited to any one people. To those who seek, God reveals Himself. In that most Jewish of documents – Matthew's Gospel – we find the universality of Christ revealed in this birth story. Jesus comes to the Jew first and also to the Gentile. Christians now see Him as the Saviour of all, but, as with all the Gospel messages, it is all much more personal than that.
The offerings of the Eastern Kings of old. Unto our Lord were incense, myrrh and gold; Incense because a God; gold as a King; And myrrh as to a dying man they bring. Instead of Incense, Blessed Lord, if we Can send a sigh or fervent prayer to thee, Instead of myrrh if we can but provide Tears that from penitential eyes do slide, And though we have no gold, if for our part We can present thee with a broken heart Thou wilt accept; and say those Eastern kings Did not present thee with more precious things.
(Nathan Wanley)
You may observe that the three Wise Men have appeared in the Christmas crib, noting the arrival of the season of Epiphany when we come to terms with the Christ Child in the incarnation.
Sunday’s in Epiphany last until Ash Wednesday. Blessings John.
Reflection I January 2023
THE NAMING AND CIRCUMCISION OF
OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.
The first day of the civil year
It belongs to the specific character of Christianity that is in an historical religion (C.H. Dodd). There is perhaps no more certain historical moment in Christianity than this moment, when a Jewish family does what all Jewish families must do for their sons. From the earliest moments of Luke’s Gospel the expected child is surrounded by omens and mystery, but here God’s Son meets us at His most human and vulnerable, in an ancient rite linking Him with Abraham and his descendants, in a domestic ceremony separating Him from the unbelief of the Gentile world. We now look back across the centuries, in which the Church has been conscious of the effective presence of Christ, and we see this circumcision as the consecration of Salvation’s history in Israel, enjoining us to sanctify our births, families, customs and times – including this new calendar year. He shared a name that was common amongst Jewish boys – Jesus – Joshua – The Lord helps, or saves. Though we shall never minimise the transcendent mystery of God, Jesus, in His name, reminds us that God acts and loves.
Advent Reflections from Reverend John Cuffe
Advent Reflections from Reverend John Cuffe
Advent 4
Advent 4
Saints in the Lectionary this week.
SAINT THOMAS
Apostle and martyr.
Thomas the Doubter was the first to confess the Divinity of Christ! (John 20,28) ‘Thomas answered him, “My lord and my God”. It is impossible to estimate the millions who were brought to the same confession because of Thomas, but the churches which Thomas founded in India have kept Christianity alive, and extended the faith which survives there to the present time. At first Thomas was an impulsive believer: ‘Let us all go with the Teacher, so that we may die with him!’ (John 11,16) When the crucifixion took place the darkness closed around him and we can understand his doubt when he was confronted with the impossible! ‘Unless I see......I will not believe’ (John 20,24). The doubt of Thomas stands in the record so that we may be able to face our doubt. Even the most radical doubt is not a cause to despair. ‘Doubt indeed has its time and place. In the present period no one, not even the theologian, can escape it. But the theologian should not despair, because this age has a boundary beyond which again and again he may obtain a glimpse when he begs God, “Thy kingdom come”. Doubt is to be endured. The words of Lady Julian are also relevant here:
‘ Christ did not say ‘Thou shall not be tempted, thou shall not be travailed, thou shall not be afflicted’ but He say ‘Thou shall not be overcome”. The final confession of Thomas remains an encouragement to faith even at the point where everything is slipping away from us.
Advent 3
Advent 3
NICHOLAS OF MYRA
Bishop and philanthropist
Santa Claus is a corruption of Saint Nicholas for Nicholas as Myra is Father Christmas. In the iconography of the Church his symbol is sometimes three bags of gold; the dowry he gave to three daughters of a poor man so that they might marry. Children wait on Santa not for gold but for a present they would love to receive. As we approach the crass materialism and superficiality of the modern Christmas we will recall that the giving of gifts began when ‘God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.’ (John 3.16) Nicholas is also the patron of Russia and of sailors.
AMBROSE OF MILAN
Bishop and teacher
Born c.339 died 397
Ambrose was an unbaptised catachumen and a provisional Governor when he was chosen Bishop of Milan. The administrative problems in the Diocese were exhaustive but Ambrose kept his head above water. He boldly affirmed the freedom of the Church. ‘The emperor is within the church; he is not above it.’ He might have been surprised to see that the Church has not yet resolved the problem of it’s relation to secular authorities. Ambrose baptised Augustine of Hippo. In the confessions Augustine left us many beautiful cameos of his mentor.
When Ambrose read, his eyes scanned the page and his heart explored the meaning, but his voice was silent and his tongue was still. All could approach him freely and it was not usual for visitors to be announced.
Every Sunday I listened to him preach the word of truth to the people, and I grew more and more certain that it was possible to unravel the tangle woven by those who deserved me.
During the struggle with the heretical Empress the devoted people stayed day and night in the church ready to die with their Bishop.
Ambrose is the author of the first great Latin hymns of the Church.
O may no sin our hands defile.
Or cause our minds to rove;
Upon our lips be simple truth,
And in our hearts be love!
Advent 2
Advent 2
Reflection from Reverend John Cuffe
SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST
The museum Unter den Linden in Colmar houses the triptych of Matthias Grunewald originally painted as the altarpiece for the abbot’s chapel in the monastery of Issenheim. The dying Christ is portrayed ‘with an unsparing horror of pain, despair, and putrefaction; the mother of Jesus supported by the beloved disciple; Mary Magdalen kneeling in frenzied prayer to Christ; and on the other side, John the Baptist’. John has the Old Testament open in his left hand and with his right hand he points to the crucified Lord. It is symbolic of John’s place between the old dispensation and the new. His dress and diet, his preaching and political commitment, are all reminiscent of the Old Testament prophets but he also discerns the extraordinary character of Christ’s mission. Ecce Agnus Dei. Behold the Sacrifice offered by God. As the Fore-runner of Christ he occupies an important place in Jewish tradition. Josephus writes: ‘John was a good man who commanded the Jews to exercise virtue, both in doing right towards one another and in piety towards God, and so to come to baptism.’ In our time Karl Barth fastened upon the image of John as a living parable of the duty of every preacher and theologian, to point steadfastly in one direction and in one only – to Jesus Christ.
Advent 1
Advent 1
Reflection from Reverend John Cuffe
We have already discussed the origin of this season as the first part of the Christmas season. Indeed, the First Sunday in Advent is the day on which the liturgically year begins. Advent is a season during which the Church recalls and liturgically re-lives the Old Testament expectation of the coming of the Messiah, together with some of the events which immediately preceded his first advent (a word which means ‘coming’). The Tree Year Series revives the old Spanish and Milanese custom of observing a festival of the Annunciation just before Christmas by centring the readings on the Fourth Sunday in Advent on this event. The Advent season also reminds us of other ‘comings’ of the Lord: his coming to just in our daily lives, in the breaking of the bread, in his little ones (see Matthew 25.40, and wherever two or three are gathered together in his name; and in his final coming as King to rule the world at the End of time.
The making of an Advent Crown or Wreath is one custom which helps to capture the sense of expectation for the coming of the Messiah as the Advent season brings us closer to Christmas. On Christmas day the central candle is lit to signify that at last the light of the world has come to his own. The Advent Wreath reminds us that we have to prepare ourselves to receive Christ our King and asks us to examine ourselves to ask just what sort of a crown we are preparing for him. Traditionally, Advent is a penitential season during which purple vestments are worn and symbols of festivities such as flowers etc. are discouraged in view of our Lord’s own words about fasting and penitence as we prepare ourselves to receive the Christ Child on Christmas Day.
I hope you all have a fruitful Advent.
John .
Reflections from Reverend John Cuffe 20 November 2022
Reflections from Reverend John Cuffe 20 November 2022
FESTIVAL OF CHRIST THE KING
Why has the Feast of Christ the King, which apparently originated as recently as 1925, risen to such prominence? Was it devised (partly) in order to rehabilitate the idea and the institution of monarchy after the cataclysm of the First World War?
Only a few years after the Bolshevik October Revolution, and at a time in Europe after the First World War when fascism and dictatorships posed a serious threat, Pope Pius XI in 1925 did indeed inaugurate a new festival in honour of the Kingship of Christ. This was primarily intended to counter the claims of secularism by holding up the model of Christ, as King of the Creation, whose just and gentle rule is supreme.
In 1970, the RC Church moved the festival from its late-October date to the last Sunday in the church year: not only was its importance in the calendar increased, but it came to be adopted by non-Roman churches, not least in the Anglican Communion. In the Church of England, after a tentative appearance in The Promise of His Glory, it was made a mandatory celebration in Common Worship, on the Sunday next before Advent.
Several theological and liturgical considerations account for the prominence of its observance. It concludes the Christian year with a climactic celebration that focuses on Christ as glorified Lord and King - a powerful reminder that praise of his Kingship is always the theme of the calendar. Many times it has been pointed out that every Sunday by its name, dominica, kyriake, is really designated as a day of Christ the King. In addition, this festival also deepens awareness of the final end of all things in the triumph of Christ: it brings the cycle of the liturgical year to an end, but looks forward to its turning again on Advent Sunday. Worship of Christ on his throne leads on to the message of Christ as Judge.
The spirituality of this festival must never be forgotten or understated. No one recognised this more than Henri Nouwen in his Sabbatical Journey: "on the last Sunday of the liturgical year, Christ is presented to us as the mocked King on the Cross as well of the King of the universe. The greatest humiliation and the greatest victory are both shown to us in today's liturgy. It is important to look at this humiliated and victorious Christ before we start the new liturgical year with the celebration of Advent. All through the year we have to stay close to the humiliation as well as to the victory of Christ, because we are called to live both in our own daily lives."
From the Church Times England. Thank you.
DEFENCE SUNDAY
Today (13 November 2022) is Defence Sunday, when we remember and pray for our Armed Forces and particularly for the Chaplains and their work. Also this week in the Lectionary we had an important day on Tuesday where we remembered to give thanks for –
The Saints, Martyrs, Missionaries and Teachers of the world wide Anglican Communion.
THE SAINTS, MARTYRS, MISSIONARIES AND TEACHERS OF THE ANGLICAN COMMUNION.
From every continent, of every colour and many tongues, they have been pleased to call themselves Church of England, Episcopalian and Anglican. It is often tortuous Middle Way with conservative evangelical Protestants, and all the shade in between, struggling at times for the ascendancy. Many find the tensions too great but others remain because they hope for a Church which can hold Rome, Canterbury, Geneva and Moscow in creative tension but full communion. There is no shame in being an Anglican and so long as our comprehensiveness is a Christian comprehensiveness then it is a glorious thing. Our apostolic ministry is a responsibility and a call to humility not pride.
Augustine, Anselm, Cranmer, Donne, Wesley, Keble, Temple, Bell, they were all Anglicans and with them we remember the great company of Anglican witnesses. But we are not Anglicans because of them. We must find for ourselves that this Church is Christ’s Church, the stock and root of His planting. This Church mediates Christ. Anglican sacraments are His sacraments making Christ present among His people. Anglican teaching presents the footprints of His ways and the outline of His face. We cannot profess belief in the great Papal error. We were not born in Greece or Russia. But we thank God that he has brought us into this Fellowship where we can be loyal Christians. We are a Communion of churches. There is only one Church, as there is only one Christ. We hope that we shall come one day to the Church’s centre, not in Canterbury but in Heaven.
SAINT LUKE THE EVANGELIST
Luke was a medical man (Colossians 4,14). He is widely regarded as the patron of physicians and surgeons. One strong and ancient tradition suggests that Luke was also a painter. For centuries he has been regarded as the patron of artists. It is as the author of a Gospel and of the Acts of the Apostles that he is best remembered. As the only Gentile evangelist he portrays Jesus in his international context, as Jewish Messiah but also Saviour of the world. Luke’s magnificent two volume history had, it it’s time, the feeling of vastness and space as it related the whole course of God’s saving acts, from the birth of John the Baptist right through to the proclamation of the Good News of salvation in the capital city of the World. We would be very much poorer without the material which is peculiar to Luke and which elicited from Dante the description of Luke’s first volume as the gospel of Christ’s meekness. Luke was deeply sensitive to the role of women: He alone tells us about Elizabeth (1,5-66), the woman who as a sinner (7,35-50), the widow of Nain (7,11-17), and the woman who blessed Christ’s mother (11,27). Mary also plays a most important role in Luke’s work.
Luke records eight vital instances of prayer in our Lord’s life which are not in the other gospels. Many of Luke’s unique passages show the Lord as one who is kind and deeply humane. Zacchaeus, the repentant thief at Calvary, the women of Jerusalem, and Dives and Lazarus are find examples of this element in Luke’s thought. Luke is also the New Testament theologian of the Holy Spirit, ‘For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say’ (Luke 12,12). An early writer tells us that Luke died in Greece at the age of eighty four. ‘He served the Lord constantly, wrote the gospel in Greek and died full of the Holy Spirit’. His symbol in iconography is a winged ox.
THE REFORMERS AND MARTYRS OF THE ENGLISH REFORMATION – 1555
THE REFORMERS AND MARTYRS OF THE ENGLISH REFORMATION – 1555
On the Sixteenth of October Fifteen-Fifty-five Nicholas Ridley, Bishop of London, and Hugh Latimer, Bishop of Worcester, were burnt at the stake in Oxford for refusing to accept the medieval doctrines of Transubstantiation and the Sacrifice of the Mass. Latimer, standing in the flames, cried out one of the immortal phrases of the Reformation, ‘Be of good comfort, Master Ridley, and play the man. We shall this day light such a candle by God’s grace England, as I trust, shall never be put out.’ There were many martyrs in these times and in retrospect we feel an overwhelming gratitude to them because they clarify the Reformation issue. The English Reformation was not a political matter surrounding the marital relations of a grotesque tyrant. The issue was: Shall England be Medieval and Papal Catholic or shall she be Catholic and Reformed. Latimer and Ridley died for the Reformed Faith which was a rediscovery of the Gospel.
Reflection from Reverend John Cuffe on St Michael and All Angels 9 October 2022
Reflection from Reverend John Cuffe on St Michael and All Angels 9 October 2022
SAINT MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS
‘Michael row the boat ashore, Alleluia’ recalls the tradition of Michael the Archangel as the receiver of the souls of the dead. But he is best remembered and honoured as the captain of the hosts of heaven. When there was war in heaven he cried out “Micha-El’, ‘Who is like God?’, and rallied the forces of light to throw the usurper Lucifer into the darkness and cold. ‘Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, who fought back with his angels; but the dragon was defeated, and he and his angels were not allowed to stay in heaven any longer. The huge dragon was thrown out – that ancient serpent, called the Devil or Satan, that deceived the whole world.’ (Revelation 12,7-9). (Two other angels are mentioned by name in the Bible: Gabriel, ‘Hero of God’, the angel of the Annunciation and Raphael, ‘God has healed’, who in an Apocryphal book heals Tobit’s blindness.) Satan is cold blooded, God is light and warmth. The spiritual strength of this is brought out by Seraphim of Sarov: ‘God is fire which warms and kindles our hearts. If we feel in our hearts the cold which comes from the devil – for the devil is cold – Let us pray to the Lord and he will come and warm our hearts with love for Him and for our neighbour, and before the warmth of his face, the cold of the enemy will be put to flight.’
Reflection from Reverend John Cuffe on St Francis of Assisi 2 October 2022
Reflection from Reverend John Cuffe on St Francis of Assisi 2 October 2022
FRANCIS OF ASSISI
Italian Friar, Preacher and Founder of
The Franciscan Order
Born 1181 died 1226
Francis Bernadone was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. For the first twenty years of his life he experienced and then pursued pleasure, comfort and self-glorification in the chivalry of the times. He remained unsatisfied until three experiences called him into another path. A leper on a bridle path called Francis to embrace the suffering and ugliness of the world. Francis kissed the leper and the leper was Christ for him. En route to war a voice called to Francis to leave the service of a temporal lord to serve the Lord of lords. In the ruins of Saint Damiano’s church the crucified Christ called Francis to rebuild the church. Francis led a revolution which was terrifying and complete; terrifying in its literal obedience to the poverty and emptiness of Christ in the world and complete because it led to the gift of the Stigmata when the five wounds of Christ were impressed upon his body.
The brotherhood of Francis is one of the glories of the Christian Church. Francis wanted all men to live in peace and brotherhood; to be friars, little brothers of Christ and of all men. There can be no barrier of race, colour or creed because there is only one Father of all. All centres and sources of life are witness to the Father: Brother Sun and Sister Moon, Brother Wolf and Sister Swallow, Brother Fire and Sister Water are all ikons of the Father. Francis did not shrink from death – Sister Death took him by the hand and led him into the Presence of God in whom all things are united and transfigured.