Darling Downs Zone Executive 2022
Lutheran Women of the Darling Downs met for their annual Rally on 22 March 2022 in the lovely country setting at Glencoe, hosted by Bethlehem, Glencoe and St John’s, Wilsonton.
President Val Kath welcomed 58 ladies, seven visitors and four pastors to the half-day rally. The theme was Give Thanks in All Circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18). PowerPoint slides displayed the banner, many slides showing various aspects of life for which people give thanks, key points from the Bible Study conducted by Pastor Faggotter, and the talk about GIVIT.
The morning began with prayer and a song, Glencoe Gives Glory with words written by Avalon Hall. This was a brief history lesson on the congregational life over the past 142 years.
Second Assistant Bishop, Pastor Nathan Glover read Bishop Mark Vainikka’s report and commented on various happenings within the district. Bishop Mark reminded us that God always works for our good and many life activities are acts of faith in the resurrection.
Pastor Peter Faggotter’s Bible Study continued with the “Giving Thanks” theme. He even tried to give away a $20 note if someone would do 20 push ups (there were no takers), and a Lindt chocolate, but people were wary as to what conditions were needed to get these gifts. God did not impose conditions when he sent his Son. God’s intimate and loving relationships show how much he loves us, and we need to give thanks in all circumstances. God knows more than we do, and our thanks should be heartfelt. Counting blessings is a way to demonstrate our gratitude.
Count Your Blessings was the offering song, with $704 to be shared equally between Mary and Martha’s and GIVIT women’s work section.
There are now 14 fellowships with 167 financial members in the Zone. Shirley Horrigan (President of LWQ) read a brief report. The Memorial Hymn of Ashes was sung.
Nicloe Kilah & Tommy Assistance Dog in training
Guest Speaker was Nicole Kilah who was accompanied by Assistance Dog in Training, Tommy, a Labrador whose training is done by women inmates at the prison near Gatton. Nic spoke about the charity GIVIT which was started by Juliet Wright – a charity for charities. It is an online not-for-profit organisation with no material warehouses but accepts online donations of goods, time, and money. Clients must be registered with a charity that assesses what items are needed. It could be things like work boots, electrical goods, clothing, or toys. Besides working with state governments, GIVIT is involved with help in domestic violence situations and indigenous communities. Running costs for GIVIT are met by sponsors and partners, so 100% of donations go to clients. She explained how to donate via the website: givit.org.au Nic was presented with a basket of fruit.
Lutheran Drought Aid was adopted as a two-year Zone Project. Crows Nest will host Zone Fellowship Day. Support for Lae Seminary in PNG for an English tutor at academic level was sought.
All positions on the Management Committee have been filled. Pastor Mark Demmer presided over the Rite of Installation for the ladies. A vote of thanks was given – again reminding us to be thankful to God for his blessings and all involved in the successful organisation of the day.
Closing devotion and prayer was led by Pastor Demmer who spoke of the uniqueness of a Christian life with joy in sorrow and God’s love shining through everything. A final hymn was sung, followed by the Benediction, singing a special grace with words by Avalon.
The shortened format was appreciated by all. Self-catering also worked well. Ladies then enjoyed lunch and chat to end a great day of fellowship.
Lenore Wissemann (Edited by Lois Schultz)
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