Pre-Mission Travel
The Armidale mission began with precarious journeying from Sydney via car, bus and train, through the deluge on the Central Coast, and up through the central tablelands before finally arriving at the St Peter’s Cathedral. We were warmly welcomed by the staff here – including the recent grad Rev. Johnny Costin – before arriving at our friendly billets.
Morning at church
On Sunday morning half of the team attended services at St Peter’s Cathedral, and the other half at St Mary’s church in West Armidale.
Dr Phill and Matt G challenged congregants at St Peters’ to realise their affinity with sinners in Jesus’ parables, and their need for Jesus’ forgiveness. Matt H and our chaplain Alison shared their stories of accepting Jesus’ forgiveness. Adam also shared the gospel in a Kids’ Spot.
On the other side of Armidale, Ned preached on the story of the Rich Man and Lazarus, while Ben gave his testimony. Ned and Ben then joined with Kim and Jared for an engaging Q&A session with the parishioners.
“Good Music, Good News”
St Peter’s Cathedral hosted an international music outreach event on Sunday afternoon.
A range of parishioners, both young and old, performed good music from around the world.
Reuben performed a country song, spoke about sin and his initial experiences of mercy, before singing “His Mercy Is More”. Phill again spoke about the Lost Son – the good news for the whole world. Andrew connected with a Chinese man and a Chinese-Malaysian woman.
Please be praying that the seeds planted in the hearts of these two internationals will bear fruit.
Evening at church
In the evening, Jared shared his story of grace with the congregants at St Mary’s church. Matt H proclaimed Jesus’ invitation to the Heavenly Banquet, and Phill shared how he had taken up that invitation.
Meals with parishioners
For both lunch and dinner, the team had meals with parishioners. One highlight was Adam’s time with a senior gentleman from St Mary’s, who hosted Adam in his home for dinner. Please thank God for the mutual encouragement between Adam and the widower. Adam will revisit the gentleman for a game of chess sometime during the week. Please pray that this further contact will continue to be encouraging and comforting for them both.
Please thank God for the faithful proclamation of His Word in both preaching and conversation. Please ask God to water and grow these seeds.
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