NEWS

LIVING WORDS

The Bible is more than just a collection of ancient words. It is the Living Word of God — spoken through prophets and apostles, priests and kings, and ultimately through Jesus himself. Words written centuries ago that are still alive and speaking into our lives today. But to live these words, we first need to understand them. Love. Gospel. Disciple. Devotion. Mission. Repentance. Salvation. Worship. Stewardship. Kingdom. They’re words we hear often. Words that are central to our faith. But do we really understand what they mean? Join us as we rediscover the true meaning behind some of the Bible’s most familiar — and perhaps least understood — words and concepts. Because when we understand these Living Words, we can begin to live them.

LifeWay has been on an incredible journey. Through Vision 2030, God has led us to grow, serve and share his hope in ways we could never have imagined.

As we look to the future, God is continuing to lead us forward, but what course is he setting before us?

Each location has unique opportunities.

Each person is a vital piece of the puzzle in the Body of Christ, in revealing the bigger picture.

God calls us together, to discern where He is leading us next and chart the course for the next phase of LifeWay's mission.

Because when every voice is heard and every piece is brought together, the way forward becomes clear.

Your piece of the puzzle matters.

Whether you've been part of LifeWay for many years, have recently connected, or simply consider LifeWay part of your story, your voice matters. Join the conversation and help us discern where God is leading us next as we chart the next course for LifeWay's mission and ministry.

[CLICK HERE FOR MEETING DATES](https://lifeway.net.au/events/future-direction-meetings)

Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten, moving into your first home as a married couple, or welcoming your first child, new seasons require us to learn, grow and adapt to changed surroundings. As Joshua leads God’s people to the edge of the Promised Land, they stand on the threshold of a new identity. They are no longer slaves; they are becoming a nation. No longer wanderers; they are becoming warriors. Soon they will be builders, landholders and city dwellers. But they are still called to be faithful to Yahweh. They must still be worshippers, devoted to the covenant they received on their Exodus journey. Becoming the people God calls us to be is a lifelong journey of learning to be His in the changing circumstances of life. But God is always faithful to His promises, even when we fail. God is always ready to reclaim and restore. God is always the architect of our days, no matter the challenges and changes within them. Join us as we learn to be different under the joyous shaping of God’s hand on our lives.

This eight part preaching series begins Sunday 26 July 2026. Join us in person or watch via livestream on our channel at: www.youtube.com/@LifeWayLutheranChurch

The weekly online prayer gathering has been restarted, and everyone across LifeWay is warmly invited to join us. Wherever you’re from, you’re welcome to be part of this time together. Every Wednesday at 8am sharp, we’ll spend a focused time in prayer and encouragement as we seek God together and begin the day with purpose. Set aside the time, log in, and pray for what God is doing among us.

For more information and the meeting link, contact Pastor Nich Kitchen (nicholas.kitchen@lifeway.net.au) or Charles Bertelsmeier (cbertelsmeier@gmail.com).

The LifeWay 2025 Book of Reports is now available. Click on the PDF attachment to view online or pick up a printed copy at church.

Join us for the AGM after worship on Sunday 23rd November.

Please note some service time changes for that day:

- Combined English & Chinese service at Epping at 9.30am

- Combined Oak Flats & Wollongong service at 1/8 Kenny St Wollongong, 10am.

A selection of short meditations for each day of the year, from Australian writers, including pastors and other faith-filled servants of Jesus.

Drawing illustrations from every day life, the writers thoughts are relatable, Christ-centred, and point readers back to the full life he promises in his name. Included is the bible reading for the day, a featured verse, a faith-talk question, and a prayer. Perfect for individuals, families, or groups.

May you be blessed by a daily hint of heaven as you take time out in His presence.

[AVAILABLE TO ORDER NOW](https://www.shopacr.com.au/P702771/Time-Out-For-A-Hint-Of-Heaven-_dash_-Devotions-for-a-Year/pd.php) from Australian Christian Resources.

If you'd like to collect your copy from Church, please write which LifeWay location you'd like to collect from in the delivery details and select 'Store Pickup' during the checkout process.

A life-changing gift that inspires hope…empowers individuals…transforms families and communities!

The Cambodia Education & Support appeal is on again this year. You can help sponsor one of 9 students in part or full to go to school, or provide a bike for a young person in the village to go to school. Our goal for the students is $7,500 and $1200 for the bikes (10 are needed at $120 AUD ea).

LifeWay, thank you for your generosity! Both of our goals have been reached. All further donations will go towards the student education fund.

You can read about the students via the PDF attachment here.

Thank you for your generosity. From small things, great things can happen.

This unique sculptural candle, crafter in the shape of a cross features the word 'Blessed' delicately embossed. A beautiful piece to display in your home this Easter or all year round as a reminder of God's abundant blessings.

- Size: 8cm wide (at cross piece) and stands 15cm high.

- Individually hand crafted in small batches by our friends at Candles by Lily in Sydney Australia.

- Made from unscented natural soy wax with a pure cotton wick.

- Due to the handmade nature, each candle may have slight imperfections or variations in colour.

- A popular choice for a baby welcoming celebration, baptism, christening or wedding favour. Ask us about bulk pricing for large orders.

Please note: Sculptural candles are designed to be decorative pieces, however, should you choose to burn them, please be aware that they will drip. Make sure to use a stable, heat-resistant surface underneath such as a plate or tray to catch the melted wax. Due to non-traditional shapes, the candle may not fully burn to the end.

[Available now - $14.95](https://www.shopacr.com.au/P502452/Blessed-Cross-Candle/pd.php)