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The Anglican Church in Tasmania Search |
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a healthy church...transformingLIFE |
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December 2006 |
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A full weekend in Quamby ParishThe weekend of 14-15 October was a very happy and joyous occasion for Quamby Parish. After many requests from parents for baptism for their children, the Reverends Josephine Pyecroft and Marie White spent time visiting and instructing parents and godparents about the meaning of baptism, and the responsibilities required of those standing as godparents. Jo and Marie had the privilege of welcoming thirteen people into the family of Christ at St Mary's, Hagley. They were encouraged by members of the parish and family and friends. On the Saturday afternoon five young adults were baptised during Evening Prayer. This followed teaching and encouragement at their homes and in the church. They were given an opportunity in front of witnesses of accepting or rejecting Christ before proceeding to Baptism, and received a personal copy of Why Jesus? by Nicky Gumbel, to encourage the affirmation of their faith. On the Sunday morning 198 people - parents, grandparents, godparents, children and babies, and the regular congregation - packed the church. Marie was heard to remark how wonderful it was, to have to step around prams and toddlers, as we processed up the aisle, to the strains of 'All things bright and beautiful'. The service was Holy Baptism in Morning Prayer, and Jo gave a talk using the symbols of baptism. In the relaxed and happy atmosphere eight babies and children, including two sets of twins, were brought to the font to be baptised by Marie and Jo. Each child received a candle in a holder made from Tasmanian timber, along with a teddy bear in its own sleeping bag, lovingly made by parishioners. Following the service the families were welcomed to a lavish morning tea in the church grounds, where there was a great deal of fun and fellowship. There was a beautifully decorated cake in the shape of an octagon, each section bearing the name of one of the candidates. Each of these families is being pastorally nurtured by congregation and clergy. But, wait, there's more…In November soon after his return from overseas, Quamby Parish was greatly blessed by Bishop John's giving of his precious time to confirm seven people into the Anglican Church at St Mary's, Hagley. One person was baptised and all were welcomed into the church. Everyone appreciated being able to speak with the Bishop in a relaxed atmosphere. These occasions do such a lot to build the Body of Christ and the Revds Marie White and Jo Pyecroft are quite humbled by the enthusiasm and support of the parishioners of Quamby Parish.
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