Magazineinside life

JULY 2012

www.thelifechurch.co.nz

PENROSE OTARASunday Service: 9:30AM

60 Rockfield RoadPenrose, Auckland

Sunday Service: 10:30AM201 Preston RoadOtara, Auckland

PASTOR’S MESSAGEOur Spiritual Gifts - Serving God Made Easy!The month of July at The Life Church is an enormously blessed one for us as a Church. Each year we host our annual Presbytery Week (3 - 8th July) in which ‘office gifted’ Prophets are invited and speak to us as a Church (and to individuals) what they believe that God is saying at this time. The Lord is so gracious to give direction and confirmation to ones who need it and encouragement to others, that what they are doing matters to God! This is a time not to be missed, see the event information below for dates, and plan to be there.

During June we ran another ‘Divine Design’ course. At this inspiring weekend participants discovered something of the spiritual gifts that God has given to them and how these link to the areas of work and ministry they are passionate about and also to their personal style. A course like this is empowering and I would encourage anyone who has not yet done it to enroll. Keep your eye out for another course in the next few months.

The Holy Spirit’s plan as we allow Him to work is quite simple. He wants to lead each of us to discover, develop and deploy our spiritual gifts for the benefit of others and the extension of the Kingdom of God. Each of us is designed to make a valuable and meaningful contribution through all of our lives. We do this best when we positively and actively utilise the gifts that God has made available to us for serving Him.

At ‘Divine Design’ the discovery stage is advanced. Each participant is assisted to identify the gifts that God has given them and taught how those gifts can be developed. We assist participants in identifying ministry areas where their gifts can be deployed within the church.

Dear friends, we are not ‘called’ to everything; but every single person is called to do something. Let this month of July be the time when you take significant steps towards hearing about and stepping into the exciting journey of what God has called you to! See you there!

God Bless,

Pastors Bruce and Maude McDonald

featured event

July 3rd - 8th

ALL CHURCH PRESBYTERY WEEKThis month we host Pastor Peter Davis and Pastor Graeme Pope for our Presbytery week. We receive these men as having the gift of a Prophet and have invited them to share what God is saying to the Church and to our lives. If you have been seeking God for direction or guidance for a situation, and would like to have an opportunity to receive prophetic ministry you are invited to attend meetings at either campus this week.

Presbytery Week Schedule

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Penrose Campus @ 7:00pmTuesday 3rd & Wednesday 4th

Otara Campus @ 7:00pmThursday 5th

Leaders of The Life ChurchSaturday 7th July (By invitation only)

Inside Life03WELCOME TO THE LIFE CHURCH

We are glad to have you with us today and believe that the best is yet to come for you. Here are a few things that are helpful for you to know.

We are one church with two campuses, Penrose and Otara.

AFTER CHURCHAfter the service please stay and have a drink with us. At Penrose you can purchase quality café style coffee and cakes from the team or help yourself to free tea and coffee available next to the café servery.

PENROSE

OTARA

Facilities The bathrooms can be found by walking through the café and making your way down the hall and are located to your left. Disabled toilet access can also be found beyond the main toilets, just around the corner.

Information DeskHere you can find information about courses, programmes and events coming up at the Life Church. Please feel free to take any of the flyers.

Nursing Mothers RoomLocated at the rear of the main auditorium, it is a quiet space to allow mothers to nurse with privacy. Emergency baby supplies are also available for those unexpected situations.

DURING THE SERVICE

Prayer Time - During the worship service and before the preaching we invite anyone who wishes to receive prayer to the front of the church. A prayer partner will meet you and pray with you, believing for an answer to your need, no matter how big or small.

Communion - Most weeks we will share communion. Small pieces of fresh bread and cups of juice are passed around for anyone who wants to receive them. Everyone is invited to take communion.

Offering - Each week we receive tithes and offerings from church members and those that choose to give.

Kids &YouthWe run programmes for each different stage of life. They are designed to teach and inspire each group, mentoring them through their different stages in life. God’s principles are central to the teaching and encouragement given. A notice will display on the screen when it’s time for the kids programmes to begin. Leaders will meet parents and kids at the back of the auditorium and direct you from there.

For further details and times.

SEE PAGE05

Facilities The bathrooms can be found by following the signs located in the main auditorium.

Information DeskHere you can find information about courses, programmes and events coming up at the Life Church. Please feel free to take any of the flyers.

DURING THE SERVICE

Prayer Time - During the worship service and before the preaching we invite anyone who wishes to receive prayer to the front of the church. A prayer partner will meet you and pray with you, believing for an answer to your need, no matter how big or small.

Communion - Most weeks we will share communion. Small pieces of fresh bread and cups of juice are passed around for anyone who wants to receive them. Everyone is invited to take communion if they wish.

Offering - Each week we receive tithes and offerings from church members and those that choose to give.

Kids &YouthWe run programmes for each different stage of life. They are designed to teach and inspire each group, mentoring them through their different stages in life. God’s principles are central to the teaching and encouragement given.

For further details and times.

SEE PAGE05

“I WAS ONCE

AGAIN

REMINDED THAT

GOD KEEPS HIS

PROMISES”

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MY STORYDEBBIE HILL

DEBBIE HILL

I grew up in the UK where I was raised by two fabulous parents who are Christians. When I was 8 years old I gave my life to God. When I look back at what happened from that time to today I can see how God’s hand was always on my life. At the age of 13 I was at the point of quitting church and religion; however God had other plans! I responded to a challenge to be baptised in the Holy Spirit; I figured something needed to happen in my life and this could not hurt. At that point my life changed; I had a desire to know God more and to do what He wanted for my life. I still made mistakes and had challenges to face, as we all do, but God helped and continues to help me through every single one of them. One of those challenges happened about seven years ago, when I lost my job. A vehicle came with the job and so I had to give that back as well. To top it off my landlady asked for her house back. Within one week I had no job, no vehicle and no home. I remember praying and asking God what was I going to do and He spoke to me and said it would be sorted out in 24 hours. About a week later I was given $7000 to buy a car and on the day I went to purchase the car, I was offered a job and the next morning I was offered another place to live! Was it a tough time? Totally! However, God came through in 24 hours as He said He would. Within that job I prospered and was promoted to management within a year. I was once again reminded that God keeps His promises and that He doesn’t just give us enough to get by, but He goes beyond our wildest dreams, because He wants to bless and prosper us.

LIFEGROUPSWe invite you to join a small

group. We believe that your life as a Christian will be strengthened and encouraged as you join with others. If you are new to Church or Christianity then a small group is a great way to get to know people and learn more. You don’t even have to be a Christian to go along. Groups are a relaxed time of connection and sharing of a Bible message. Many groups also share a meal and have music and singing.

HILLSBOROUGHThursdays 7:30pm (fortnightly)CONTACT: Lisa Cleland (021) 421 998

MT WELLINGTON“Love in any Language”Date and venue changes (weekly)CONTACT: May Sanchez (021) 068 0180

HILLSBOROUGH / MT ROSKILLSundays 5:00pm (fortnightly)CONTACT: Guy and Pushpa Steward 021) 819 330

EPSOM“Word of Mouth” (Women only)First and third Tuesday of each monthCONTACT: Adair Smith (021) 770 522

N O T I C E SWORKING BEESSATURDAY 14th – 9:00am - 3:00pmPENROSE CAMPUSOn the second Saturday of every month we hold a working bee to maintain and develop the properties of The Life Church. This is a great way to meet people and provide practical support to keep the place functioning well. All skill levels needed and is lunch provided.CONTACT: Merv Jones (021) 711724

HEALING ROOMSSATURDAYS – 10am – 12pmPENROSE CAMPUS - Opposite the AuditoriumThe Living Room is a place where you can receive prayer. Our teams of experienced and compassionate prayer partners are ready to pray for healing and other needs as requested. Anyone is welcome to receive prayer. You don’t have to be a regular churchgoer, there is no charge and no appointment is necessary.CONTACT: Chris Starrenburg (021) 277 5091 or chris.starrenburg@thelifechurch.co.nz

MAN POWERMen’s BreakfastSATURDAY 21st July, 7amCOST: $8Enjoy a big breakfast and have a great morning of connection and input. All men welcome.

MAINLY MUSICFRIDAY MORNINGS – 10am (During School Term Only)PENROSE SPORTS CENTREOur mainly music is a place where young children and their mums or caregivers can come and enjoy music, rhyme, rhythm, creative dance and so much more. If you have young children, or know of someone with young children then feel free to ask them to come and join us for a morning of fun.PRICE: $4 per familyCONTACT:Suzy Just (021) 670 917Natalie Jones (021) 386 628mainlymusic@thelifechurch.co.nz

WATER BAPTISMAL SERVICESUNDAY – 1st JulyThere is an opportunity for anyone who has not been baptized in water to receive this as a part of our Sunday service. If you or someone you know would like to take this step please contact your Life Group leader or the church office. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend the service.CONTACT: Church Office 918 1699 orinfo@thelifechurch.co.nz

GIRLFRENZMid-Winter Christmas High TeaSATURDAY 28th July, 2pmCOST: $5The Ladies are gathering for High Tea, and the celebration of mid-winter Christmas. CONTACT: Adair Smith (021) 770522

Hope you are enjoying your holidays. There are some great events happening in July for Youth. Converge is back at Penrose at the end of July. Also during July Otara are hosting an awesome man of God, Pastor Tu Nuualiitia. Get yourself along to a youth night; it might just change your life.

Events coming up…

PENROSE >>Tuesday 17th July Youth Night - Sports Centre 7:00pm - 9:00pmFriday 27th July Converge - Sports Centre 7:00pm - 9:30pmTuesday 31st July Youth Night - Sports Centre 7:00pm - 9:00pm

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YOUTHAges: 13-18 Sam & Krysta Ardern - Youth Leaders Penroseyouth@thelifechurch.co.nz

David & Carol de Thiery - Senior Youth Leaders Otaradavid.dethierry@thelifechurch.co.nz (027) 341 3213

KIDS

Year 3 - Year 8

Ages 3 - Year 2

Ages 6months - 2SUNBEAMS

KIDS R USAges 5 - 12

OTARA >>Friday 6th July Skills for Life 7:00pm - 9:00pmFriday 13th July Guests - Ps Tu Nuualiitia & Team 7:00pm - 9:00pmFriday 20th July Touching the Community 7:00pm - 9:00pmFriday 27th July Converge @ Penrose 7:00pm - 9:30pm

At The Life Church your children are important to us. We provide active and engaging programmes to inspire and equip them. Parents and caregivers are welcome to sit in on any of the lessons to see what we do.

PENROSE CAMPUS“We have had a great time in our Supernovas programme.

Recently we have been learning about being a History Maker and that we have a Destiny! We have also been learning about amazing Bible heroes like Gideon and David.”

At Supernovas you can expect fun, games, prizes, Bible stories, memory verses - and some of the coolest leaders.

At Sparks children learn about the Bible, and the amazing things God has done for us. They have fun with games, activities, crafts and more.

At Sunbeams children are looked after by our dedicated team who engage with your children and provide a positive environment for them.

OTARA CAMPUS

We meet at 9am before church starts. You can expect a great time filled with fun, games, Bible stories, music and even some outings!

PATHWAYS JOURNEYS TO MAXIMISED LIFE

This month sees the start of the 2012 Olympic Games, where the top athletes from all over the world meet to compete over two weeks for the prestige of a gold medal and the honour that comes from being on the pedestal watching their country’s flag being raised.

It would probably be fair to say that every athlete competing has dreamt of achieving that moment for most of their lives. Imagine them training on a cold winter’s morning - they would need the picture before them of crossing the line first, receiving the gold medal and hearing their national anthem to keep them going.

Regardless of which of the 26 sports they compete in, every one of them will have made a choice many years before to commit themselves to becoming the best. 1 Corinthians 9:24-26 says “Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step…”

One area of life that requires us to run with purpose is marriage. A strong, loving and lifelong relationship doesn’t happen by chance. It takes effort and dedication to keep the fun and romance alive. Even the happiest marriage can become better. If you are interested in investing in your marriage, then look for more about the Marriage Course below.

Inside Life06

@ THE LIFE CHURCH

In the 18 months that we have been running Alpha courses approximately 80 people have attended and have had their lives positively impacted. A participant from a recent Alpha course said, “My friend has noticed how much I have changed since doing the course”. These courses change people’s lives and build the church, so imagine what could happen in your life!

The Alpha Course is for anyone wanting to explore the Christian faith in a relaxed setting over ten thought-provoking weekly sessions, with a day or weekend away.

PRICE: Free, includes dinnerCOURSE DATES AND TIME: Ten weekly sessions, 7:00pm, beginning Monday 16th JulyVENUE: Penrose Campus

The Marriage Course is for couples wanting to invest in their marriage. Each night of the course is conducted in a romantic ‘date night’ setting.

PRICE: Cost is $95 per couple which includes a two course meal each night of the course and all course materials.COURSE DATES AND TIME: Eight weekly sessions, 7pm, beginning Monday 16th JulyVENUE: Penrose Campus

You can sign up for any of our course at the Information desk, pathways@thelifechurch.co.nz or www.thelifechurch.co.nz

Inside Life07WHATS

ON JULY

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PenroseWorking Bee9:00am

PenrosePrayer Meeting7:00pm

@ THE LIFE CHURCH

PenroseHealing Rooms10:00am

PenroseMainly MusicSports Centre10:00am

PenroseHealing Rooms10am

PenroseHealing Rooms10:00am

PenroseMainly MusicSports Centre10:00am

PenroseMarriage Course 7:00pm

Alpha Intro Dinner 7:00pm

S C H O O L H O L I D AY S

PenroseHealing Rooms10:00am

CONVERGEYouth Sports Night7:00pm

S C H O O L H O L I D AY S

S C H O O L H O L I D AY S S C H O O L H O L I D AY S

PenroseBaptism Service9:30am

OtaraService10:30am

PresbyteryPenrose7:00pm

PresbyteryPenrose7:00pm

PresbyteryOtara7:00pm

Presbytery (Leaders)Penrose7:00pm

PenroseService9:30am

OtaraService10:30am

Youth Team depart for Vanuatu

Ps Nkhosana ChongoPenroseService9:30am

OtaraService10:30am

Youth Team return from Vanuatu

PenroseMens Breakfast7:00am

PenroseService9:30am

OtaraService10:30am

PenroseService9:30am

OtaraService10:30am

PenroseMarriage Course 7:00pm

Alpha Course7:00pm

PenroseMarriage Course 7:00pm

Alpha Course7:00pm

www.thelifechurch.co.nz

PostalPO Box 24377Royal OakAuckland 1345NZ

P: (09) 918 1699F: (09) 579 5150E: info@thelifechurch.co.nz

Penrose60 Rockfield RdPenroseAuckland 1061NZ

Otara201 Preston RoadOtaraAuckland 2023NZ

WHOSWHO

Pastors Bruce & Maude McDonaldSENIOR MINISTERS

Dan & Pam OgleELDERS

Merv & Gay JonesELDERS

Murray & Raewyn StewartELDERS

John and Lijiana DeanPASTORAL CARE OTARA

James BeaumontCELEBRATION DIRETOR

Debbie HillPATHWAYS DIRECTOR

Sam & KrystaYOUTH LEADERS

Adair SmithPASTORAL CARE DIRECTOR

Maude McDonaldCREATIVE DIRECTOR

John & Sharon EcclesMISSIONS DIRECTORS

Bruce & Dayna GrayOTARA LEADERS

David & Carol de ThieryOTARA LEADERS