Farewell to Alicia.
On Sunday 23 August, we said farewell to Alicia Demond, who finishes her time on staff at NewHope this week.
Alicia has been part of the NewHope staff team for almost 18 years, serving in many different capacities across Children’s Ministry, Families Ministry, NewHope Preschool and, more recently, as Head of Communications and Pastoral Support. Throughout her years at NewHope, we have been richly blessed by her gentle spirit, creative gifts, faithful service and deep love for Jesus and His church.
Alicia will be stepping into a new role as Communications Lead with the Baptist Union of Victoria, where she will have the opportunity to use her gifts to serve our wider Baptist family of more than 250 churches. While we will certainly miss having Alicia as part of our staff team, we are excited for this new season and look forward to our ongoing partnership with her through the BUV.
Alicia, thank you for the many ways you have served, cared for and contributed to the life of NewHope over almost 18 years. We pray that you will know God’s goodness and blessing as you step into this new chapter.
Passing of Jonathan Mayne.
Jonathan Mayne passed away earlier this month. Jonathan was a long-standing, much valued member at NewHope for many years before moving to New Peninsula Baptist church. We pray for Jenny, their children, extended family and friends.
Spiritual Retreat & Workshops.
Heart of Life - Centre for Spiritual & Pastoral Formation in Croydon, invites you to these contemplative events facilitated by Apryl Huglin.
1. Landscape of the Seashore Retreat Day: Sat 17 Oct, 10am-4pm. Come away to a quiet place at our Landscape retreat series. Each session is centred around a particular landscape, drawing wisdom from its unique gifts for our spiritual journey. Take some time out and embrace moments of silence, time for personal reflection, journaling, and group sharing. The landscape’s themes have been inspired by Margaret Silf’s writings. Reflection materials will be based on her writings and from other Christian writers. Find out more.
2. Self-Compassion for Everyday Life - Practical Tools for Inner Peace: Sat 14 Nov, 10am-3pm. Self-compassion develops inner comfort and strength to face life’s challenges with greater ease. Join us to discover practical tools to cultivate inner peace. The day will include guided meditations, quiet reflection, and group conversations which will enable you to practise treating yourself with kindness and understanding.This day is perfect for anyone who struggles with self-criticism or wants to build resilience. Find out more.
3. Nurturing Your Creative Soul - Art Retreat Day: Fri 20 Nov, 10am-3pm. Nurture your creative soul through this reflective art retreat day. The focus for this day is on Kintsugi (Japanese art of gold repair), weaving together hands-on creativity with reflective time through Scripture, poetry, and nature. This retreat day offers a sacred space to immerse yourself in creative art, silence, and reflection. No artistic experience is necessary – just bring an open heart and a willingness to explore. Find out more.
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