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| From the Pen of the Executive DirectorAs we go through life, we all face "defining moments" when some event forces us to stop and take stock of where we are and where we are going. Defining moments can often lead people to counsellors whose task is to give support, guidance, empathy and sometimes a challenge or a gentle shove. The question "What do we do with Jesus Christ?" also brings us to a defining moment. How we answer, and even whether we answer, will have an impact for life and all eternity. Today many people say there is more than one way to find God, however the Bible has a much different message - there is only one way to know God, and find the salvation that we need. Jesus Christ, who is both fully God and fully man, is the only one who could represent both God and us, and so bring about our reconciliation. Because none of us is able to get free from sin, God the Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ, who died in our place, paid for our sink, rose from the dead, and now offers the gift of salvation. Like any gift, we can take it or leave it: God's gift remains available as long as we live on earth. But, the Bible doesn't even give a hint that we will have a second chance to make a choice after death. In a world of turmoil, Christians can point people to someone who can satisfy their deepest longings. Through faith in Jesus Christ, the Christian has the source of inner peace. Breaking News ADACTS (Armidale Diocese Anglican Counselling Training Service), has had an official name change. To reflect the accredited nature of the Diploma of Counselling Studies, and pending accreditation of the Degree in Counselling Studies, it was suggested that the Training Service become a College of Study. With much deliberation it was decided to name the new college the Lois Reid College of Counselling Studies The Principal of the College, Mrs Jenny Regan, is hoping to organise an official function to recognise this momentous change in the not too distant future. Money Matters A big thank you to all who helped with the Fundraising Dinner held recently in Tamworth. It is estimated that $2 200 was raised. Unfortunately Mrs Shirley Sinclair was unable to come as originally advertised. Mrs Julia Anderson did a wonderful job, speaking about being a Christian in the political arena. The Diocesan Counselling Committee has decided to hold something similar in Moree in 2004. We have had a successful submission to the NSW State Department of Gaming and Racing providing $235 000 over the next 3 years. This funding is to support our work in counselling and providing Life Skills education to problem gamblers and their families. (There is a similar submission under consideration regarding substance abuse - alcohol and other drugs.) Two of our counsellors recently went to Baradine to provide two days of counselling and Life Skills education. This was made possible thanks to a donation from the Manly Farmers Appeal to the Baradine Church. We have since received $8 800 to fund two further visits to Baradine, and a visit to Lightning Ridge. For this financial year, we expected a shortfall of about $35 000, but God is good and we will break even. Thanks to successful submissions, some re-working of costs, and the generosity of staff, the proposed budget for 2003-04 has a deficit of $36 000 and not the $168 000 previously expected. Praise Matters
Prayer Matters Paul the apostle felt the urgent need for prayer so much that his encouragement to Christians to pray was often strenuous, pleading and persistent. Prayer was to be the greatest security and truth for the church.
Nothing is too small for prayer. Nothing is too great for God to overcome.
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