CMWDT Bay of Plenty :
Encourager 106

( March 2005 )

News from earth, March 2005 -

People :
	REMEMBERING PAULINE RINGROSE :
		A good number gathered at St. Peter's Church for the funeral of our dear friend Pauline on 3rd February. Each one who took part mentioned Pauline's big smile. Some spoke of her hearty laugh, her enthusiasm, her wanting to be involved in everything in spite of her difficulties, her big hugs and her love for God. Pauline had been involved in CFFD for nearly four years, attending every meeting she possibly could. It was Pauline who took a friend to camp and introduced her to Jesus. Now that friend is hoping to take another lady to camp this year. Pauline's influence is still going on. Although she suffered a great deal of pain and spent three Christmas Days in hospital, she never gave in to self-pity. Always determined to enjoy every moment to the full, Pauline set an example of courage, hope, and love. One of our speakers last year said, "It doesn't matter whether we have a disability or not, we are all called to do a work for God. He wants to give us endless strength and energy in our spirit." I believe Pauline had this. Even though terminally ill and in pain, she came to our December meeting and enjoyed it to the full. We thank God for Pauline. IN HIS PRESENCE IS FULNESS OF JOY, AT HIS RIGHT HAND THERE ARE PLEASURES FOR EVERMORE. - Psalm 16:11
	OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY to Beryl Greenslade whose mother passed away on 10th February. Beryl also lost an uncle a few days later.
		We walk life's pathway with those we love, Until we have to part, And for a while they pass from sight, But never from the heart.
	SURFING WITH AN ARTIFICIAL LEG :
		Chris Adamsen was one of the world's best surfers. Then he lost a leg in an accident. Five years later he got an artificial limb that can go in water. He began surfing again. In 2002 he spent 5 months at a Surf School at the Mount teaching disabled people to surf.
Events : EVENTS coming
	March 12th : Visit to Oropi Hot Pools. Pot Blessing Meals last Saturdays in month. Contact Lyndsay.
EVENTS past PICNIC AT KULIM PARK
	On Saturday 12th February a picnic was held at Kulim Park by the beach. It was windy, but the wind was warm, and so was the fellowship. Andrew Wright, the story-teller, shared the story of Daniel in a dramatic way. His contribution was very much appreciated. The next day a good number attended the service for people with special needs, at Bethlehem Baptist. A good message was brought by John Douglas. As usual there was a special afternoon tea for God's special people. May other churches catch the vision! CFFD Picnic at Kulim Park, 2002 Click the picture to see a bigger version.
DAY AT TAMAHERE
	For our December meeting we combined with Hamilton and Te Awamutu at John & Robyn Clark's place. Their hospitality was fantastic! Before lunch Percy shared a devotional on the Bible which was much appreciated. After a lovely meal Graeme White, with his keyboard, led us in carol singing. We were delighted to have Margaret Hansen as our speaker. At one point she asked her daughter to share what it had been like having a mother who was disabled. Margaret was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of 14. When not in hospital she tried to live a normal life. She married and had two children. In the late 1970s she became confined to a wheelchair. Sharing from Luke 2:1-14, Margaret said that 25 years ago she found the joy the shepherds in that passage were talking about. One day, in great pain, she had cried out to God. The room was filled with a loving peaceful presence. Over the next few days Margaret repented of all she knew to be wrong. She forgave everyone she had anything against. She knew that the presence with her was the Lord Jesus Christ, and that she was forgiven of all her sins. Her life changed. At first her family didn't understand. But one by one they too, came to know Christ. Margaret concluded with the verse, "If the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed". ( John 8:36 )
ASPIRE TO FLY
	On Saturday 27th November a big community Fun Day was held at Memorial Park. CFFD had a display and a trading table, along with many other groups connected with people who have disabilities. It was good to have Vanessa and Michael from Auckland to help us. Quite a few "Encourager" mags were given out. Ideas were gained for a bigger and better event in the future. It was a great day!
BOOK LAUNCH
	On the 16th October some of our group attended the launch of Margie Willers' new book, "Undaunted Faith". Margie welcomed us and thanked all those who had been involved. They in turn told us of the pleasures and pain experienced in producing this excellent book. Others sang praises to God. All shared individual tributes to Margie and the contents of her book. A sumptuous afternoon tea and fellowship topped off a most enjoyable and inspiring time. I proudly left with an autographed copy of "Undaunted Faith" and in my heart the words that Brian Vincent had sung, "The anchor holds, in spite of the storm". - Beryl About the book : UNDAUNTED FAITH This book contains 48 inspirational stories and meditations. The first is about times of spiritual darkness : "When the lights go out you will find wonderful things in the darkness". The second meditation is on adversity : "Some Christians are like teabags. We aren't strong until we are placed in boiling water". Another meditation on Samson has the title "A Compromised Life" : "Samson sinned until the Spirit left him. We can do the same. God is not going to put up with things forever." Divided into nine parts, Margie's book has something for everyone. - Norah
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