“Steadfast in faith”
On Friday 1st April more than 200 MU members gathered from across our diocese to attend the Festival Service at St Andrew’s Cathedral. This was followed by a time of fellowship over lunch, then the Annual General Meeting in the Chapter House.
The service was led by the MU Sydney Chaplain, Revd. Craig Segaert and began with the processional hymn “God is working his purpose out”. The congregation was encouraged by the singing of the MU Choir, conducted by Margaret Rush.
After welcoming the members MU Sydney President, Christine Jensen, interviewed the guest speaker Revd. Alison Napier. Alison, who is responsible for Women’s Ministry and Mentoring Programs at the Cathedral, shared her personal story and interests.
The Bible Readings for the service were Genesis 15 read by Pauline Burdon, and Galatians 3:7-18 read by Jan Livingstone. These told of God’s fulfilled promise to Abram and the freedom we have through God’s grace and redemption in Jesus Christ.
Alison began her talk by bringing to us the story of her favourite musical “Les Misérables”, the tale of ex-convict Jean Valjean and his personal experience of redemption. The story goes on to explore the nature of law and grace.
Drawing us back to the bible Alison reminded us that we are redeemed by faith if we reclaim the faithful promises of God, for Christ has redeemed us and redemption has set us free! We are no longer cursed and bound by law; Jesus Christ took our punishment (a timely reminder in this Lenten time) and we are redeemed in faith and God in his mercy has given us His Spirit.
In accepting our transformation we were encouraged to remember that this was all God’s plan from the beginning, a plan laid out generation by generation.
We are called to trust God’s promises and in obedience, be steadfast in faith.
Alison reminded us that we should not be distracted or disheartened as we await Jesus’ return, that we should not give up but keep on keeping on.
Her talked ended in prayer reflecting on God’s perfect plan, His perfect timing and Jesus Christ our personal redeemer. AMEN
After further prayers led by Wendy Mayer and Joan Eberlé, and the Wave of Prayer, the service ended with the Recessional Hymn “O, Jesus I have promised’ Members then gathered in the Chapter house for lunch and the AGM.
The Annual General Meeting
MU President, Christine Jensen chaired the AGM and welcomed the members. Prayers were led by Revd. Craig Segaert. Apologies were given and Minutes confirmed. Pauline Burdon presented the Annual Report. Gina Grimes presented the Treasurer’s Report, an Auditor was appointed, and Correspondence read.
In General Business subjects covered included: a welcome to Marie Glover-the new Neo-natal Deliveries coordinator; the Mothers ‘ Day Initiative in partnership with Anglican Aid; the changes to proposed legislation regarding the nature of marriage; MU Parish Workers; the Draft Investment Policy Guidelines; the New Rules and Regulation changes required by Government; and the MU Promotion packs from MU Australia Council.
The meeting ended in Prayer.
At a time when we all seem so busy it was encouraging to see so many able to attend both the Festival Service and the AGM. It is fruitful for us to hear about what is happening across the diocese as MU seeks to share Christ’s love by encouraging, strengthening and supporting marriage and family life.
Glenda McSorley 2.4.2011
