This time last year my family and I were heading overseas to spend a few weeks to spend the holidays with my parents, siblings, nephews and nieces for the first time in ten years. It was a great trip, but it did mean that we missed out on the inaugural Festival of Christmas! I am personally very much looking forward to being part of the second Festival that begins tonight at 6:00 and runs tomorrow night and Sunday night.

The committee has been hard at work for months now and it’s all coming together for a wonderful weekend inviting our community into our buildings to experience something of the true meaning of Christmas - the light that has come into to the world in the person of Jesus! I hope that you will join me in being part of the Festival of Christmas; either volunteering or attending with friends or family. We’re hoping and praying that many people from our wider community will be impacted by the Festival and that it might play a role, however small, in their journey of faith and experience of the hope and joy of Christmas.

I’d also like to shout out the committee, especially Leah James (who has chaired the committee), Jackie Martin (and her whole family), Marjy Robertson (and her whole family), Bec Vernum (and her family), and those who put together the window boxes for their significant work in getting the Festival ready. And to all who have volunteered to be part of the weekend - thank you and I’ll see you tonight! 

Marc Rader | Senior Pastor

This Weekend:

Tonight, tomorrow, and Sunday from 6–9pm, the Festival of Christmas is on!

There will be no church services this Sunday (21st) in the morning or evening.

Christmas Services:

Christmas Eve: 7pm Carols Service

Christmas Day: 8am and 9:30am
(9:30am service will be livestreamed)

In the wake of the events of December 14, we lift before our compassionate and loving God all those impacted by violence and trauma—individuals, families, first responders, and whole communities.

He sees the fear, anxiety, panic, anger, heavy memories and deep sorrow they are carrying. Hold them gently, Lord, and grant them permission to feel what they feel without shame, denial, or self-blame.

The Psalms in a contemporary language by Eugene H. Peterson is very earthy... "God, my shepherd! I don't need a thing. You have bedded me down in lush meadows, you find me quiet pools to drink from. True to your word, you let me catch my breath and send me in the right direction. Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I'm not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd's crook makes me feel secure. You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing. Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life. I'm back home in the house of God for the rest of my life."

This Christmas, help us to walk in Your light and to reflect it faithfully, for Your glory and for the good of the world.

Shalom

Greg Williams | Elder 

Please note that the GBC Office will be closed from Wednesday, December 24, 2025 to Thursday, January 1, 2026, for the Christmas Season and this is the final eNews of the year!

If there is any matter that requires urgent attention within this period, please call Operations on 0402-526-156.

For matters not requiring urgent attention please feel free to send us an email at office@gymeabaptist.org.au or call (02) 9521 4611 and leave a voice message. We will respond to all messages and emails after we resume work on Friday, January 2, 2025.
 
Merry Christmas and a Christ Centered 2026.

A huge thank you to everyone who is volunteering over the weekend, we are so grateful for the time and energy you’re giving.

If you’re available, we would love your help with our Christmas pack down on Saturday 3 January at 8:30am. Many hands make light work, and it would mean so much to have you there! 

Known and loved by GBC, and mother of Susan Burgis, Jean Pringle went to be with the Lord last week. Please keep her family in your prayers during this time.

We also ask that you pray for those who are unwell, in hospital, or facing loss and grief, or feeling isolated during this season. May they be remembered in the midst of the pressures of Christmas, and may we extend our love and support to them in both practical and prayerful ways.

If you have something for Family News, contact office@gymeabaptist.org.au or call on 9521 4611.