Globally and locally, there have been life changing events happening in the past couple of years and even weeks. From major community and personal losses to major world events. 

As a community of God, we are called to be present with our compassion and care in times like these. Our intention to help and be a compassionate presence in the suffering of others can often get waylaid. Because of our empathy and concern for others, we can sometimes feel so pulled into the negative overwhelm around us that we fall into hopelessness ourselves. The opposite is also true when we become so overwhelmed with the situation that we disconnect ourselves completely and get on with our unaffected lives. 

So the challenge to become careful listeners is important. Great questions to ask are: “What help is needed?” and “What is ours to do?” 

The bible has many stories of people with overwhelming personal issues and community distress. The prophet Micah was one such story.  In the midst of all the problems, Micah asks the question; “What is mine to do? How shall we respond?” Listening carefully, Micah hears the words, “Seek justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God.”

The African idea of ‘Ubuntu’ states simply and powerfully, ‘My wellbeing is bound to your wellbeing.’ or “I am who I am because you are who you are.” 

The community of BDC has generously donated truckloads of essential goods to Anglican North Coast for distribution to the people affected by the floods in the Northern Rivers. We give because we are connected in our humanity to those who suffer.  We give because our welfare is tied to the welfare of others. 

“Seek justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God.” 

Our prayer for this week is from Gareth Rayner-Williams;

Outpouring Christ, 

whose divine self-emptying 

hallows the depths of our emptiness; 

pour your life within us 

and so transfigure our nothingness, 

that with holy extravagance 

we might be poured out 

and so fulfil your work of healing and justice. Amen.

Rev Nic Hagon

Baptism and Confirmation Invitation Please make contact with the Chaplains if you would like to find out more about confirmation or baptism for your child.

Primary Chapel services take place fortnightly in the last period on Thursdays (Day 9 in the timetable) in the Branson Centre. This alternates with Primary Assembly. Parents are very welcome to join our Chapel.

Special Dates this term

• Last day of Term 1: Easter Service

Chaplaincy Team

Rev Naomi Cooke ncooke@bdc.nsw.edu.au

Rev Nic Hagon nhagon@bdc.nsw.edu.au