Because Laurie was in every way a servant. Laurie was born at Riverton in New Zealand on September 3rd 1940, the fourth of five kids. He lost his dad when he was only 12, and he left school at 15 to help run the family farm with his Mum and his younger brother Ron. At 16, Laurie got a job at the local Saw Mill where he worked for three years and then moved through various jobs while he still helped his mum run the farm.

After she passed away in 1968, Laurie moved to Australia. He worked as a driver for Caltex, before he got a job driving a street sweeper for Brisbane City Council.

Laurie was a single man, and he lived a simple life. He was loved by his neighbours. And he was absolutely committed to his church family here at mpc… because he was absolutely committed to the Lord Jesus, who he served with the wholehearted consistency he applied to everything else.

Laurie wasn’t an up-front sort of guy in any way. But he found a lot of satisfaction, I think, in the fact that Jesus said that in his Kingdom, the first would be last and the last would be first. And that the greatest in the kingdom of heaven would be the one who serves.

And so when it came to finding ways to be helpful, Laurie was the sort of guy who’d just notice things and then do them. He’d be here through the week sweeping. And on a Sunday morning as well. I think Laurie was kind of disappointed when we got a photo-copier that automatically folded the service sheets. Because up til then, Laurie was the guy who’d fold them by hand. Laurie was the guy who’d notice when the coffee supplies ran low in the cupboard. And go out and buy a new jar of Moccona at his own expense.

And the thing about Laurie was, he never did it to be noticed. And he never did it to be thanked.

Nobody expected Laurie to die so suddenly in his early sixties. It was an undetected illyiac aeortic aneurism.

And nobody expected that Laurie had meticulously organized to bequest his entire estate to his church. A total amount including his house of just under half a million dollars. Laurie’s bequest has provided a number of benefits over the last few years since he passed away.

It was an incredible act of generosity. And has now, after lots of planning and debating and designing, provided our kids ministry with a fantastic resource in the Goldsmith Centre.

Which I now have the honour to declare OFFICIALLY OPEN.

Mission Prayer Lunch – You are invited to join in a Mission Prayer Lunch today, 1pm. Come to Peter & Sylvia Smartt’s home: 363 Trouts Road, McDowall. We will be talking with Paul & Helen Douglas (China) and praying for them, as well as the Kellys in DR Congo. See Peter or call him on 0411 126 011 if any queries.

MPC Playgroup – Join young families from mpc and our local community as they meet together on Thursday mornings 930-1130am. See Deb Frankel or Deb Jeffers for more information.

RI Teachers Needed – Take up a great opportunity to share the good news of Jesus with children in our local schools. Teachers are needed at McDowell SS. See Meryl if you are interested.

Brief Congregational Meeting – Due to an oversight in the actual motions passed at our budget meeting, Presbytery is unable to process the new pay arrangements we approved within the budget for Stuart and Derek. We can fix this with a quick meeting between services next Sunday,19 February.

Childsafe Training – Anyone working with kids at mpc needs to have completed Childsafe training. Come along on Saturday 25 February from 3-530pm at mpc.

Check List
☐ Directory Update. Please check your details on the draft at the back and initial to give us publishing authority. If you are new to mpc then please add your details & initial to be part of the directory.  Ron Gibson and Bruce McClenahan will be available after the service for new photos or photo updates.

☐ Kids Connect Card. Please complete a card to   ensure we have up to date allergy information for your children under 13 years of age.

News & Information 5th Feb 12

Launch Dinners – Thanks to everyone who attended the Launch dinners on Friday and Saturday. There was a great time of celebrating the way God is growing followers of Jesus at mpc.

Brief Congregational Meeting – Due to an oversight in the actual motions passed at our budget meeting, Presbytery is unable to process the new pay arrangements for Stuart and Derek. These were approved within the budget. We can fix this with a quick meeting between services on Sunday 19th.

MPC Playgroup – Join young families from the church and local community as they meet together on Thursday mornings 930-1130am. See Deb Frankel or Deb Jeffers for more information.

BOOST Pool Party – Our new group for Years 6 & 7 starts 7pm this Friday, 10th February. Please come to the Gibsons’ for a Pool Party! See Pete Whittle for   details or call him on 0408 005 160.

RI Teachers Needed – A great opportunity is available to share the good news of Jesus with children in our local schools. Teachers are needed at McDowell SS. See Meryl Webber if you are interested.

Check List:

☐ Update Directory - Please check your details on the draft at the back and initial to give us publishing authority. If you are new to mpc, then please add your details & initial if you’d like to be part of the directory. Ron Gibson and Bruce McClenahan will be available after the service for new photos or photo updates.

☐ Join a Growth Group – Today is the last Sunday before studies start this week, so sign up on the board at the back of the auditorium after the service.

☐ Complete a Kids Connect Card – Please fill out a card to ensure we have up-to-date allergy information for your children under 13 years of age.

News & Information 29th Jan 12

Welcome one and all! – Today we are having a Family Service in which some of our mpc kids and leaders will participate. All kids will stay in through to the end of the service.

Launch Dinners – Our mpc ‘pot luck’ dinners are on this week: 9am congregation is Friday 3 February 630-830pm, & the 1030am congregation is Saturday 4 February 630-830pm. Sign up today.

Youthchurch recommences tonight, 3-6pm, with a Pool Party at the Brays. Contact Pete Whittle on 0408 005 160 for more details.
Attention Grade 6 & 7s! – Something new & exciting is coming on Friday 10 February. More details very soon.

Directory Update - Please check your details on the draft on the back wall and initial to give us publishing authority. If you’re new and you’d like to be included, Ron Gibson and Bruce McClenahan will be available after the service for new photos or photo updates.

Growth Groups provide a great opportunity to get into God’s Word together & encourage other followers of Jesus. Plan to be part of a group in 2012. Sign up sheets are on the back wall for the next couple of weeks.

David & Heather Kelly are leaving in a couple of days to return to Africa. They’ll be delivering the Educating 160 collection on our behalf directly to where it’s needed. Please continue to pray for them as they serve the gospel through their work with HEAL Africa in Goma, DR Congo.

RI Teachers Needed – Share the good news of Jesus with children in our local schools. Teachers are needed at Ferny Grove SS, Grovely SS and Ferny Hills SS. See Meryl Webber if you are interested.

Kids Connect Card – Please fill out a card to ensure we have up-to-date allergy information for your children under 13 years of age.

News & Information 15 Jan 12

Welcome this morning to our new world ministry partners John and Rose Evans, who plan to plant a church in Chiba City Japan. John is our guest preacher.

Farewell to the Hsu Family – 230pm Teralba Park byo nibblies. Weber has completed his ministry training, and is taking up an appointment at Acacia Ridge Presbyterian Church.

Holiday Kidzbiz – Please put your name on the roster at the back wall to help out during the holidays. Pre-Prep-Grade 2 meet in the Green room in  Goldsmith Centre over the Christmas holidays. Grades 3-7 can collect an activity sheet from the back of the church.

Children’s Ministry Training Day – Saturday 28th Jan 9am-3pm. A must for any teacher involved in Children’s Ministry on Sunday mornings. Great electives, preparation time for the term ahead and an opportunity to pray for the coming year.

Launch Dinners – We’re launching 2012 with two ‘pot luck’ dinners to celebrate what God is doing at mpc. If you’re part of the 9am congregation, we’re holding dinner on Friday February 3rd; dinner for the 1030am congregation is on Saturday 4th February. Sign up today or email stuart@mpc.org.au.

Growth Groups provide a great way to get into God’s Word together & encourage other followers of Jesus. Plan to be part of a group in 2012. Sign up sheets are on the back wall from today.

Directory Update – Next Sunday the draft 2012 mpc directory will be displayed and also emailed for you to check your details and give us publishing authority. Photographers will be available after the service next Sunday for new photos or updates.

Childsafe Training Night – If you are leading or teaching anyone under 18 at mpc, you must have completed Childsafe training. The next training session will be at mpc – Thursday 19 January 7-9:30pm. See Stuart for more details.

Funeral of Betty McClenahan – Faithful long-term mpc member Betty McClenahan passed away this week. Her funeral will be held here on Tuesday at 2pm.

News & Information 8th Jan 12

Farewell to the Wales Family – Student minister Jeremy Wales, together with Lucy and their kids, are leaving us to take up a new position assisting Matt & Kerry Viney at Wavell Heights Presbyterian Church. (mpc is subsidising the cost of this appointment as part of our commitment to nurturing the network of churches in our area.)

Welcome to Gary & Fiona Millar – The Millars, including Lucy, Sophie and Rebecca, have arrived from Dublin. Gary will now take up his position as Principal of Queensland Theological College. Session has invited Gary & Fiona to be Associate members of our ministry team.

Leaders Forum Next Saturday – Jan 14. Starts with breakfast @ 8am, concludes with lunch @ 1pm. Growth Group Leaders, Elders, Kids Ministry leaders, Management Committee and other leaders are invited. Please see Bruce McClenahan for details or rsvp to  vision@mpc.org.au.

Launch Dinners – We’re launching 2012 with two ‘pot luck’ dinners to celebrate what God is doing at mpc. If you’re part of the 9am congregation, we’re holding dinner on Friday February 3rd; dinner for the 1030am congregation is on Saturday 4th February. Check out today’s flyer and please keep these dates free.

Hsu Farewell @ Park – Next Sunday Jan 15 is the Hsus’ last one with us. We’ll be getting together at  Teralba Park, 230pm to have an afternoon tea farewell. Bring some nibblies to share, come down and say goodbye!

Holiday Kidzbiz – Please put your name on the roster on the back wall if you can help out during the holidays. Pre-Prep-Grade 2 are meeting in the Green Room of the Goldsmith Centre over the Christmas  holidays. Grades 3-7 can collect an activity sheet from the back of the church.

News & Information 1 Jan 12

Pastoral Care Handover – From today, we welcome Stuart Hoadley into his new role as Pastoral Care Co-ordinator. Stu’s goal is to see our church grow as a caring Christian community. Feel free to call him on 0407 408 067 to say hi, or if you need assistance.

Educating 168! – Thanks for the fantastic response to our Educating100 appeal. $16,760 has been raised, and we’re sure we’ll find another $40 somewhere…

Leaders forum – If you’re a Growth Group Leader, Elder, kids ministry or youth leader, or part of the  management committee, we hope you can join us for the mpc Leaders Forum on Saturday morning January 14th. We’ll start with breakfast and finish with lunch. This is an exciting opportunity to engage with our DNA and Vision, and have input into our plans for 2012 and beyond.

Holiday Kidzbiz – Please add your name to the roster on the back wall if you can help out during the holidays. Pre-Prep – Grade 2 are meeting in the Green Room of the Goldsmith Centre over the Christmas holidays. Grades 3-7 can collect an activity sheet from the back of the church.

Launch Dinners – We’ll be launching the year with two ‘bring and share’ dinners to celebrate what God is doing at mpc. If you’re part of the 9am congregation, we’re holding dinner on Friday February 3rd; dinner for the 1030am congregation is on Saturday 4th February. More details coming soon.

Farewell Aroneys, Welcome to the Millars (1030 congregation) – Next Saturday night, Jan 7, the Campbells will host a bbq to farewell the Aroneys and welcome the Millars. Nick and Lisa and their family are heading to the UK for six months. The Millars will move into their home as Gary takes on the role of Principal at Queensland Theological College. It’s a BYO BBQ, and space is limited. If you’d like to join in, please contact Louise for catering arrangements.

Christmas Day 25 Dec 2011

Christmas Day is a combined service at 8 am.

Thanks to all who contributed to our Educating 100 appeal.  So far we have recevied $15,800!  Absolutely fantastic!

Our offering this morning supports the great work of our mpc care team through the year. If you’re a regular at mpc and you’d also like to make your regular Sunday offering, a separate plate will be provided at the door.

Next Sunday (New Years Day) we’re holding a combined morning service at 930am, and a combined evening service at 7pm.

News and Information 18 Dec

Educating 100 Today!!   Today during the service we’re collecting envelopes for our mpc Christmas project. We’re hoping to help educate 100 kids for a year in Goma, DR Congo. The cost is $100 per child through HEAL Africa. David & Heather Kelly will deliver the funds directly to Africa on our behalf. Any amount can go in an envelope. You can also bring them on Christmas Day.

Holiday Kidzbiz – Helpers are still needed for the holiday kidbiz leaders. Please put your name on the roster on the back wall if you can help out during school holidays. Pre-Prep – Grade 2 meet in the Green room of the Goldsmith Centre. Grade 3-7 collect an activity sheet from the back of the church.

Care Team collection Christmas Day.  Our offering on Christmas day will be for the work of the care team.  There will be a collection bucket at the back of the church.

Lindsay Farewell Today – Join us today as we farewell the Lindsay family from 4pm at Paul and Robbie Harveys’. (125 Buranda Rd. Clear Mountain – 3298 6838). Maps on the foyer table. BYO chairs and picnic tea. There is a BBQ available as well.) Chris and Megan have served us well at mpc during the last two years as Chris has completed his ordination studies. They’re now ready to launch into ministry at Murwillumbah. Please remember to pray for them as they settle in and begin this new phase in their lives.

Christmas Morning Service— 8am on Christmas Day.  Phil will be exploring how Christmas gave the world a new definition of humility. A talk based on John Dickson’s new book, ‘Humilitas’. On New Years Day we’re having one special combined Sunday morning service at 9:30am at MPC.

Leadership Forum Date Claimer – MPC leaders are invited to attend the Leadership Forum on 14 January. Starts with breakfast together, ends with lunch together. For Growth Group Leaders, Elders, Kidzbiz leaders, Committee of Management and Staff.

Congratulations—to Alistair and Tammy (Naomi & Lyndon) Jones on the birth of Hannah Phoebe. Born Dec 12th.

Thanks— Lorelle Russell and Brian Irving wanted to say thankyou to all who prayed for their recovery. They are both getting there doing better after recent surgery

News and Information 4 Dec 11

Educating 100 – As our mpc Christmas project, we’re hoping to help educate 100 kids for a year in Goma, DR Congo. The cost is $100 per child through HEAL Africa, and David & Heather Kelly will deliver the funds directly to Africa on our  behalf. Can you give half a year? Maybe a month? Envelopes are available today. Please bring them to the Christmas Tree on December 18. Any amount, big or small can be put into envelopes.

Mission Prayer Lunch Today –  FROM 1PM. ‘Bring and share’ lunch at Jono and Kylie Andrews’ home – Bisset Place McDowall. A chance to pray for the world, and plan mission support for 2012.

Blue Card Sunday – If you are thinking about investing into the lives of our children at mpc next year either in playgroup, Holiday Kids Club, Kidzbiz, Creche, Tods, childminding at WOW or camps, speak to Elizabeth McClenahan or Meryl Webber today.

Property Thanks! – One-off pledges have been received for the deposit on the two houses next door to mpc. Settlement will be on Thursday. Your ongoing regular pledges will be required to service our loan. Congratulations to all who’ve made this run smoothly.

Nativity & Carols Concert Sunday Dec 11 7-8pm – Remember Jesus stepping into our world. Two ways to help: 1. lend and bring your potted palms to church before 2pm on Saturday; 2. Provide a ‘Christmas’ food plate to share on the night. Rehearsals for orchestra & drama: today 2-4pm (costumes), thur night 630-8pm & sat 2-4pm. ‘Crowd’ actors just come on the Sat 1pm.

The Lindsays Farewell – Sunday December 18 4-7pm at Paul & Robbie Harvey’s (125 Buranda Rd, Clear Mountain, 3298 6838). BYO chairs and picnic tea, balls, bats etc. If you’d like to help with a farewell gift, please see Sandra Richmond, or labelled into offering.

Leadership Forum Date Claimer – MPC leaders are invited to attend the Leadership Forum on 14 January. Starts with breakfast together, ends with lunch together. For Growth Group Leaders, Elders, Kidzbiz leaders, Committee of Management and Staff.

For rent – House in Aspley - 3 bedrooms + large air conditioned rumpus  $370 per week. For more info, please contact Katy Fletcher (9am) on 0402415728.

Staff Leave – Phil & Louise will be on holidays at Stradbroke Island for the next two weeks. Contact Chris Lindsay for assistance.

News and Information 27 Nov 11

Educating 100 – Is it nearly Christmas already? Last year we got together at Christmas to buy a bus for an orphanage in Mongolia. For this year’s Christmas project, we plan to team up with David and Heather Kelly’s friends in Goma, DR Congo, to provide one year of education for 100 kids. Take a look at the video online at mpc.org.au.

Farewell to the Niessls  - The mpc church family are sad to farewell Richard & Belinda Niessl (and Miriam, Jacob, Hannah & Nathan) who are moving to Canberra where Richard will take up a new army posting. Be sure to farewell them today and pray for God’s comfort would be with them in this next step.

Congregational meeting today 10am – Join us  between services to discuss our mpc 2012 budget.

Building Pledges – Please deposit lump sum pledges for the Building Fund this week: MPC Property Redevelopment Fund BSB 06 4116 Account 0090 6339.

Blue Card Sunday Next Week – The safety of children is a high priority to mpc. To comply with Presbyterian Church of Qld’s requirements, all volunteers in children’s ministries need to complete 2 forms and child safe training. We are having ‘Blue Card Sunday’ on 4 December. Come along and speak to Elizabeth McClenahan or Meryl Webber on the day if you’d like begin volunteering in kids ministries too.

Mission Prayer Lunch Next Sunday – December 4 1230-2pm. ‘Bring and share’ lunch at Jono & Kylie  Andrews’ home – 18 Bisset Place McDowall (3353 0151). A chance to pray for the world and some mpc missionaries in transition. Also to plan how best to support new missionary ventures in 2012. See Peter Smartt (smartts@yummee.com.au) for more info.

Nativity & Carols Family Concert -**Sunday Dec 11** 7-8pm. What a fantastic way to celebrate Jesus stepping into our world! Flyers are in the foyer. Please bring a ‘Christmas’ plate (eg. shortbread, fruitcake, mince pies) to share on the night. Rehearsals for orchestra and drama are on the next 2 sundays 2-4pm plus Thur 8th and Sat 10th. To volunteer as ‘props person’ or ‘lights person’ for the event see Chris Lindsay.

Extra Parking Next Sunday – Please note that parking is available in the Seventh Day Adventist Church grounds on market Sunday next week

News and Information 20th Nov 11

Kidzbiz Building Walk-through – We’re delighted to invite you to inspect the new Kidzbiz building this morning. Wander through and take a look around at our brightly coloured classrooms. The front foyer and back multimedia rooms will also be great for midweek meetings and small groups. (Furniture and fittings are still being finalised over the next few weeks.)

Educating 100 – Is it nearly Christmas already? Last year we got together at Christmas to buy a bus for an orphanage in Mongolia. For this year’s Christmas   project, we plan to team up with David and Heather Kelly’s friends in Goma, DR Congo, to provide one year of education for 100 kids. Take a look at the video online at mpc.org.au.

Congregational Budget Meeting – Next Sunday 27th Nov at 10am to consider the budget for 2012.  Make sure you get a copy of our budget booklet, and the summary sheet. A  more detailed budget is available on the table in the foyer. Our goals for 2012 are very challenging, so think prayerfully about the proposals.

Christmas Craft Night for Women – Next Friday 25 Nov 730pm at mpc – Advent Calendar and Card Making Night. Invitations available for you and your friends. $10 to cover costs. Bring some Christmas goodies to share. Tea and Coffee provided.  Adverts available from foyer table. Seats are filling fast and today is the last chance to book.

Blue Card Sunday – The safety of kids is a high priority to us at mpc. To ensure we comply with PCQ and government requirements, all volunteers in children’s ministry need a blue card and completed child safe training. To make it as easy as possible for you, we are having ‘Blue Card Sunday’ on the 4th of December. If you’re thinking of investing into the lives of our kids next year in playgroup, Holiday Kids Club, Kidzbiz, Creche, Tods, childminding at WOW or Camps, speak to Elizabeth McClenahan or Meryl  Webber.

News and Information 13 Nov 11

Educating 100 – Is it nearly Christmas already? Last year we got together at Christmas to buy a bus for an orphanage in Mongolia. For this year’s Christmas   project, we plan to team up with David & Heather Kelly’s friends in Goma, DR Congo, to provide one year of education for 100 kids. Take a look at the video this morning, or online at mpc.org.au. More next week.

mpc e-newsletter – If you are not receiving the mpc newsletter by email please send a request to Owen at office@mpc.org.au to be added to the list.

Budget 2012 – There will be a congregational meeting Sunday Nov 27th between services to consider budget 2012. With changes in staffing and a new approach to World Mission support (more info soon) this will be a challenging budget. More info next week.

Christmas Craft Night for Women – Fri 25 November at mpc – Advent Calendar and Card Making Night.    Invitations available in foyer for you and your friends. $10 to cover costs. Bring some Christmas goodies to share. Tea and Coffee provided.

Christmas Carols Concert – Sun Dec 11 at twilight. A great night of carols, music and drama. Sign up now to be part of the orchestra or the drama team for this   exciting event. See Caro Emslie at 9am and Mandy Low at 1030 to find out what’s involved, especially   rehearsal times for musicians and the drama.

Photo Directory Address Correction - Please note: Noela Campbell’s directory address should read Mitchelton and not Keperra.

Staff Leave – Chris and Megan Lindsay are on annual leave for a week from Sunday 13 til Sat 19 November.

Jazz Concert – Natalie de Jaeger is looking for a crowd to enjoy her jazz concert, here at the mpc auditorium tomorrow night (Mon 14 Nov). See Nat for info.

News and Information Sun 6 Nov 11

Birthday Congratulations – We praise God for his goodness to Mrs Catherine Birtwell from the 9am service who has her 99th birthday on Monday. We thank God for his saving kindness to her and the many joys she’s had in life up to this point.

mpc Men’s Brekky Next Sat – Nov 12 7:30-9am at mpc.  Topic is ‘Mad Men – staying on top of mental fitness’ Come and enjoy a cooked brekky and hear clinical psychologist Jono Andrews from our 1030 service. Rsvp via sign up sheets today or email chris@mpc.org.au

Creative Christmas Countdown – Friday 25 Nov  7.30pm at mpc – Advent Calendar and Card Making Night. Invitations available for you and your friends. $10 to cover costs. Bring some Christmas goodies to share. Tea and Coffee provided.

Christmas Carols Concert – Sunday Dec 11 at twilight. A great night of carols, music and drama. Sign up now to be part of the orchestra or the drama team for this exciting event. See Caro Emslie at 9am and Mandy Low at 1030 to find out what’s involved.

Roster Help. The morning tea and door steward rosters need a few extra helpers to fill the occasional gap.  If you can help sometime during the next 6 months email geoffcowles@mpc.org.au or see Chris Lindsay.

Cooks needed – To assist a Scripture Union Mission to Woodford Folk Festival. Dec26-Jan2.  Contact Ralph Patrick. ralph.patrick@uqconnect.edu.au, 0411 852 627.

Accommodation Needs –  Michelle Martin from Latechurch is available to house-sit for short or long periods. Contact her on 0417 074 726.  Ashleigh Dellaway from Village Church needs some short term accommodation now especially for the next 6 weeks while her college year finishes. If an mpc family or older couple had a room to spare for 6 weeks or so contact Derek (mob: 0405 747 171).

News and Information 30 Oct 11
Many thanks – we have a great body of volunteers at mpc who  serve behind the scenes. Thanks to the funeral catering team on Friday and the worker bees yesterday.

Baptism of Courtney Jarrett  will take place in the 1030am service today. Welcome to her family and friends.

Meeting Last Week – At last week’s congregational meeting we decided to buy the two blocks next door for a total price of $1 million. The meeting was hugely encouraged by the level of pledges to date, though we’re still a little short of the goal; it’s not too late to add your pledge at mpc.org.au.

Newcomer Afternoon Tea – Today.  at Phil and Louise Campbell’s, 15 Station View Street, Mitchelton. 2:30-4pm. See Chris Lindsay to  RSVP.

Market Day parking.  Parking is available in the Seventh Day Adventist Church during markets next week.

Roster Help. The morning tea and door steward rosters need a few extra helpers to fill the occasional gap.  If you can help sometime during the next 6 months email geoffcowles@mpc.org.au or see Chris Lindsay.

Care Team Groceries –  We need help to re-stock the care team food pantry. Place items like pasta, UHT milk, canned food, cereal, biscuits, packet meals, toiletries, etc in the wicker basket in the foyer.

Trivia Night at Kelvin Grove – Village Church are running a Trivia Night at Kelvin Grove Sat Nov 5th at 6:30pm as a fundraiser tor  the local community centre. Flyers are in the foyer. Or go to facebook.com/exchangetrivia for details.

mpc Men’s Brekky – Sat Nov 12 7:30-9am at mpc.  Topic is ‘Mad Men – staying on top of mental fitness’ Come and enjoy a cooked brekky and hear clinical psychologist Jono Andrews from our 1030 service. rsvp chris@mpc.org.au

Lindsay Family News – Chris Lindsay has accepted a call to minister to Murwillumbah Presbyterian Church in northern NSW in 2012. The Lindsay family will be at mpc til the end of the year, with a farewell on Sunday 18th Dec.

Cooks needed – To assist a Scripture Union Mission to Woodford Folk Festival. Dec26-Jan2.  Contact Ralph Patrick. ralph.patrick@uqconnect.edu.au, 0411 852 627.

Christmas Carol Concert – An exciting opportunity coming up on Dec 18th. Musicians and budding actors needed for this fun, family friendly night. Contact Chris Lindsay or Mandy Low jamlow@internode.net.au to join the fun.

News & Information 23 Oct 11

Warm Welcome to the Burge Family – Welcome to David and Ashleigh Burge (with Darcy, Jack & Maisy) visiting mpc today. Dave and Ashleigh have recently concluded their time as missionaries in Mongolia.  Today they’ll share some insights into their final   chapter in Mongolia and what the near future involves.

Congregational Meeting Part 2 – TODAY 2.30pm
Where did we get to with pledging? Can we buy the houses next door? Be involved in the decision-making process this afternoon at 230pm. This is a hugely important moment in our church, so be part of it!

Newcomer Afternoon Tea – A great way to meet other new folk and meet some of the staff team.     230-4pm Sunday 30 October. Afternoon tea at Phil and Louise Campbell’s: 15 Station View Street, Mitchelton. RSVP to chris@mpc.org.au or 3314 6955.

Got Old Carpet or Unused Lounges? – We’re looking to upgrade the Gr6-7 kidzbiz room with good quality furnishings. Please email meryl@mpc.org.au to help.

Working Bee NEXT SATURDAY – 730am-12 noon. Come along & help keep mpc looking good! Includes painting the kidzbiz rooms under the office. Bring brushes, rollers, trays or bright coloured paint if avail.

Care Team Food Pantry Needs Restocking – To help out, please place grocery items in the Care Team   basket in the foyer. Suggestions: pasta, UHT milk, canned foods, cereal, biscuits, pkt meals, toiletries.

Trivia Night at Kelvin Grove – Village Church have a fundraising Trivia Night at Kelvin Grove Sat Nov 5 @630pm. Help to keep the local community centre in the Kelvin Grove Urban Village up and running. Flyers on foyer table. Or go to facebook.com/exchangetrivia

Accommodation Needs – Michelle Martin from    Latechurch is available to house-sit for short or long periods. Contact her on 0417 074 726. Ashleigh    Dellaway from Village Church needs  short-term accommodation ASAP for next 6 weeks while her college year finishes. If an mpc family or older couple have a room to spare, contact Derek (0405 747 171).

News & Information 16 Oct  11

Newcomer Afternoon Tea – Sunday 30 October. If you are new to mpc, this is a casual opportunity to meet other newcomers and staff over arvo tea. 230-4pm, Phil & Louise Campbell’s: 15 Station View Street, Mitchelton. RSVP chris@mpc.org.au 3314 6955.

Working Bee – Sat 29 Oct, 730am-12 noon. Please come along to keep mpc looking good. Sign-up clip boards will be passed around today. Please let us know if you are coming.

Property Purchase Pledges – We’re keen to buy two neighbouring properties on Blackwood St. Thanks to those who have already pledged support! Pledge forms are due now (use big box in foyer), or online at www.mpc.org.au/info/pledges. A follow-up congregational meeting will be next Sunday Oct 23, 2:30pm.

Care Team Food Pantry Needs Restocking – We’ve just helped 6 community families with emergency food assistance from the care team pantry. To help re-stock the food pantry, please place grocery items in the Care Team basket in the foyer. Suggested items include pasta, UHT milk, tins, cereal, biscuits, toiletries.

Trivia Night at Kelvin Grove – Villagechurch are running a Trivia Night at Kelvin Grove Sat Nov 5th at 630pm. This will act as a fundraiser to keep the local community centre in the Kelvin Grove Urban Village up and running. Pick up flyers from the foyer table, or go to facebook.com/exchangetrivia for more details.

House-sitting Available – If you’d like someone to house-sit your place short or long term, please contact Michelle Martin from Latechurch on 0417 074 726.

News & Information 9 Oct 11

Big Thankyou to The Marriage Course Helpers -   The Marriage Course has just finished with 9 couples involved. It’s impossible to run this course without a huge effort from Ian and Chris Case and their very supportive growth group. Thanks for serving us!

Chris Lindsay’s Licensing Service Today – 230-4pm at mpc. The Brisbane Presbytery is holding a licensing service for Chris as the final step before ordination.  Encourage Chris for his future ministry. All are invited.

Youthchurch on tonight – 5-7pm, social night, welcome year 7s, bring $2 to cover the light dinner.

Property Purchase Pledges – We’re keen to buy the two neighbouring properties on Blackwood St. Thanks to those who have already pledged support. Pledge forms are due back soon. Use the big box in the foyer, or pledge online at www.mpc.org.au/info/pledges. The follow-up meeting is Sunday October 23rd, 230pm.

Care Team Food Pantry Needs Restocking – We’ve helped 5 community families with emergency food this week. To help re-stock the food pantry, please place groceries in the Care Team basket in the foyer. Ideas:  pasta, UHT milk, cans, cereal, biscuits, toiletries.

Newcomer Afternoon Tea – Sunday 30 October. This is an informal opportunity to meet other new people and mpc staff.  Afternoon tea at Phil and Louise Campbell’s, 15 Station View Street, Mitchelton. 230-4pm. RSVP to chris@mpc.org.au or 3314 6955.

Working Bee – Sat 29 Oct 730-12 noon. Please set time aside to help keep mpc looking good.

House-sitting Available – Need someone to look    after your place while you’re away? Michelle Martin from Latechurch is available to housesit short-term or longer. Contact her on 0417 074 726.

News & Information 2 October 2011

Property Purchase Pledges – We’re keen to buy the two neighbouring properties on Blackwood St. Can you help? Pledge forms are available today, or you can pledge online at www.mpc.org.au/info/pledges … if you prefer the paper option, drop your form in the box in the foyer. Our follow up meeting is scheduled for October 23rd.

Grab a study booklet! We’re about to launch a new term of growth groups, with studies on Hebrews taking us through to early December. Grab a copy of the study booklet this morning.

Next Growth Group Leaders Meeting – Tues Oct 4th 7:30pm at mpc office. We’ll overview the Hebrews series for Term 4.

TWIST Brisbane – You won’t have to be a musician to enjoy a great night with Bob Kauflin this Wednesday at Creek Road Presbyterian Church. Be there by 700pm for  teaching from the songwriter behind classics like Let Your Kingdom Come and O Great God. $20 or $17/person for groups of 10.

Musicians Needed
Thanks to those who have offered to help with music for the 9am service… if you’re still thinking about it, please email phil@mpc.org.au.

Grace Around the World – Next Saturday Oct 8th 2-4pm at mpc. An afternoon of singing classic hymns from around the globe. Yummy jam and scones afternoon tea. More info from Kathy Wright. Ph: 3353 8847. naff@onthenet.com.au. Extra flyers in the foyer

Kidzbiz Picnic – Next Sunday Oct 9th – Kidzbiz picnic for Grades1-3 at Teralba Park. 12:30-2:30pm. BYO picnic lunch.

Chris Lindsay’s Licensing Service – Sun Oct 9th – 2:30-4pm. The Brisbane Presbytery is holding a licensing service for Chris Lindsay at mpc on this date. That enables Chris to be a licenciate of the Presbyterian church which is the step before ordination. All are invited.

Staff on strike? No – our mpc team members are just catching up on some holiday time. Thanks to Gary, John and Jeremy for holding the fort today. Back to normal next week!

News and Information September 25th 2011

Market Day parking.  Parking is available in the Seventh Day Adventist Church grounds next week. (Market day)

Musicians Needed.  We’re desperately short of musicians for the 9am service… especially singers and keyboardists. Volunteers from the 1030am congregation are doubling up to help out, but we need to relieve them before they wear out! See Elizabeth McClenahan today.

Funeral of Audrey Lawson – Faithful long-term mpc member Audrey Lawson passed away this week. Her funeral will be here tomorrow at 10am. All welcome.

Property Purchase Pledges – Our recent congregational meeting voted to investigate buying neighbouring properties on Blackwood St. Pledge forms will be available during the week; complete forms can be placed in the box in the foyer. Please fill in a form whether or not you can donate, and whether or not you already indicated an amount on the earlier survey. NB follow up meeting October 23rd.

Grace around the world – Sat Oct 8th 2-4pm at mpc. An afternoon of singing classic hymns from around the globe. Yummy jam and scones afternoon tea. More info from Kathy Wright. Ph: 3353 8847. Flyers in the foyer.

TWIST Brisbane – Wed Oct 5th 700-930pm at Creek Rd PC. This is a night of teaching, singing and heartfelt response to the Word of Christ. Led by Bob Kauflin – song writer (Let Your Kingdom Come, O Great God), author (Worship Matters) and speaker. The theme is, ‘Let All The People Be Glad: Worshiping God with Heart, Mind and Body.’ $20 or $17/person for groups of 10. see Phil Campbell for more details.

Kidzbiz Picnic – Sun Oct 9th – Kidzbiz picnic for Grades1-3 at Teralba Park. 12:30-2:30pm. BYO picnic.

Chris Lindsay’s Licensing Service – Sun Oct 9th – 2:30-4pm, Brisbane Presbytery is holding a licensing service for Chris at mpc on this date. This is the step before ordination. All welcome.

Next Growth Group Leaders Meeting – Tues Oct 4th 7:30pm at mpc office. We’ll overview the Hebrews series for Term 4.

Staff Leave – Most of the team are on leave! See Phil for help.

News & Information 11 Sep 11

A Big Thankyou – Special thanks to the QTC team for their help with preaching, RI in schools, visiting, seminars and community events this week.

SAP feedback – Last Sunday, the Strategic Advisory Panel presented their vision for the future of the mpc site. Feedback was invited in a survey. Two thirds of the 238 respondents rated the proposal 4 or 5 out of 5. Less that 5% rated the proposal 2 out of 5 or below. Full details of responses are available online. If you have brought back your financial pledge slip this   morning, thankyou! Please put it in the collection plate.

A congregational meeting will be held this Tuesday night at 730pm to discuss the Panel’s proposals. A draft agenda is available today.

ChildSafe Training this Tuesday – For those working with kids at mpc, ChildSafe training is this Tuesday, 12 Sept 630-9pm. RSVP to kidzbiz@mpc.org.au.

Men’s Training Event Next Saturday (Sept 17) REGISTRATIONS CLOSE TOMORROW – An annual bible teaching day just for the guys. Hear pastor-evangelist Dominic Steele present some challenging talks on men and temptation. Morning tea & lunch provided. Register at www.qcca.com.au/mte Payment of $55 can be made by credit card or   direct deposit – Account Name: QCCA_MTE; BSB: 034115; Account Number: 170224 (Tag it with your Surname, First Initial, Postcode ie: LindsayC4012).       Flyers available in the foyer.

School Holiday Help – Kidzbiz There’s a need for volunteers to help out with Prep-Grade2 kidzbiz classes over the school holidays. If you can help please fill in a spot on the roster up on the back wall.

Staff Leave – Meryl is on holidays from Sept 2-25.

News & Information 28th Aug 11

MPC Photo Directory Update – Pick up your update from the foyer.

Growth Group Mini-Series – Grab a copy of the mini-study on Judges today! It ties in with the  mission team from Queensland Theological College visiting soon, Sept 4-11 with Leigh Trevaskis.

Ukraine Mission Prayer Lunch – Join us for lunch today from 1pm at Peter and Sylvia Smartt’s home to hear from Daniel about his recent trip and his next adventure.

Men’s Training Event – Saturday Sept 17 – This  annual bible teaching day just for the guys is only 3 weeks away. Hear Pastor-evangelist Dominic Steele present two challenging talks on men and temptation. Morning tea and lunch provided. Cost is $55. Rego details are on flyers in the foyer or see Chris Lindsay for more info.

Hills to Hinterland Camp – If you are in Grades   5-7, you’re invited to a great camp on a working Macadamia Nut Farm during the second week of the September/October school holidays. See Meryl for more info, or check out and register at             www.suqld.org.au/camps/hillstohinterland. Limited spots available.

SAP – Next week there’ll be a short presentation and update from our mpc Strategic Advisory Panel at each service.

Car Boot Sale – Keep collecting items for Sept 10! If you’d like to book a space, phone Simone on 33668294 or Andrea on 38559714.

News and Information 21 Aug 11

Thanks to everyone who helped freshen up mpc at the working bee yesterday. Great to see some new faces.

Thanks also to kidzbiz helpers today while Latechurchers are on camp. Like to help more often and show appreciation to the regular teachers? Go for it!

Growth Group Mini-Series – Grab a copy of the mini-series on Judges. It flows straight on from Joshua, and ties in with the mission team visit from Queensland Theological College, visiting Sept 4-11.

John Piper and Colin Buchanan this Thursday!

The Marriage Course starts this Wednesday -  Enquiries or offers of supper or babysitting please forward to Ian and Chris Case cases@caseinfo.net

Ukraine Mission Prayer Lunch – 1pm, August 28 @  Peter and Sylvia Smartt’s: 363 Trouts Road, McDowall. RSVP smartts@yummee.com.au or Daniel 0411126011

Hills to Hinterland Camp for Grades 5-7 – There is a great camp on a working Macadamia Nut Farm during the second week of Sept school holidays. See Meryl for more info, or to register go to www.suqld.org.au/camps/hillstohinterland. Limited spots available.

Cleaner wanted – To clean the mpc building 2hrs/wk (paid position). Email cathylyndon@mpc.org.au

Free Firewood – Collect today from new building site.

Car Boot Sale – Keep collecting items for Sept 10!