Today, in our worship and our celebrations, we remember those who laid the foundations of this Church and this faith community. We give thanks for the faith and hope, which kept them focused on Gods purpose in building a church and faith community here in Manly. That purpose was encapsulated in our gospel reading for last week in which Jesus sent His disciples to 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.
It is particularly fitting that we also remember Fr. Fred Wilson, who’s anniversary coincides with the anniversary of the consecration of St Paul’s. Along with Gloria (and the faith community of the time) he worked tirelessly for this parish and community. We give thanks for his faithfulness in carrying out God’s mission in this place.
However, today is not siply a remembrance of the past – it is also a celebration of the Faithfulness of God who, in Christ said, “And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
The mission continues! Today Bishop Alison will preside as Rebecca Jayne confirms her faith in God and her desire to follow Jesus.
We give thanks for Rebecca who exemplifies, by her unconditional love, the two great commandments. We pray for Rebecca that she might always know herself to be abundantly loved!
May you al be richly blessed in our clebrations,
Reverend Shan