Blogs

“A Hymn of Comfort for Pandemic Sufferers” – Bishop Paul Smith shares the significant background of the famous Luther hymn “A Mighty Fortress is our God” and how this hymn directly speaks to our contemporary Christian life during this COVID19 pandemic.

In Australia, so many around us are baptised, but we rarely speak of that. Bishop Paul Smith reflects on the amazing Grace of God at work in our baptism and the recent changes amongst the Christian Churches about recognising God at work in each other’s baptism.

As the early Church were formulating their prayers to the Lord Jesus they reflected on the significance of praying to him as one would pray to God – that the person who once walked around Palestine is the Lord of Creation.

David Spanagel never expected Coronavirus to bring to the surface some of the issues that have arisen in their ministry setting. Read on to see what they have learned.

Shed Happens is still happening! Read about the surprising opportunities Shed Happens has experienced since going virtual during lockdown.

Might this be an opportunity for Australian followers of Jesus to reflect on what is truly important in our mission and witness of the Gospel, and to find new ways in which to engage with our community?

How could the Lord Jesus appear behind closed doors? How could he keep his promise, “Surely I am with you always to the close of the age”? How can he be present in bread and wine at Holy Communion when he has surely gone off into heaven? These questions are actually about the “ascension” of… Read more

During such unusual times, the cracks can show. Also, during such unusual times, important things can become more clear. During these times of isolation, we become acutely aware of our need to better connected with others.

Are you surviving, thriving or experiencing a little of both? What attitudes or practices are you learning now, that you hope to retain beyond abatement?

It is with much sadness that we acknowledge the death of Rev Dr John (Joe) Strelan who died on Saturday 25 April 2020 at Tweed Heads, NSW … Pastor Jim Strelan shares a tribute to his big brother.