One of the great blessings of being a Christian is the fellowship we have with other Chris-tians. This is possible because we’ve been baptised into Christ (Galatians 3:26-27) thus be-coming part of the one body, Christ’s church (Ephesians 1:22-23), and are called to one hope, worshipping the one Father, the one Spirit and the one Lord (Ephesians 4:4-6).

The bulk of the building extension work is drawing to a close with just a few items yet to be completed. The floor polishing in the main auditorium will take place in the first week of May - it's the earliest time the tradesmen are available. Leading up to that time the mens bathroom will be completed, the disabled bathoom will have handrails etc installed, the painters will finish their work, a double glazed window (about 3 times larger than the current opening) will be completed for the cry room, and the gas pipe will be installed to the new heating unit servicing the auditorium area.

“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere”. James 3:17

 Influence is the power you have to affect other people’s thinking or actions by your words and example. Everyone has influence. Teachers influence students, preachers persuade congregants, even children affect their younger siblings’ behavior. The higher you are in a position of leadership, the broader your influence will become on others and the more persistent the responsibility will be on your life. When you accept the role of a leader, you accept the responsibility of influencing others.

The process of selecting and appointing new shepherds is underway. In this process of raising questions, concerns and endorsements – what are we really looking for? In general we know the answer and it applies as much to new shepherds as it does to existing shepherds. We are looking for men who will lead, guide, correct and protect us. To be examples of Godliness before us. But, specifically, we may not know, not be ready for the kind of leadership found in genuine Biblical shepherding.