By Anne Simpson
Forster-Tuncurry Church of Christ began life like many others – with a small group of Jesus followers gathered in a lounge room around communion and the bible.
As pastor Bret Clarke reflected on the 40th anniversary of the church’s beginnings last Sunday, the church had retained its “lounge room flavour”, continuing to be a place where people gather, finding welcome and belonging.
“As one of our members, John Morris says “people aren’t here for the service”, they’re here because they’ve experienced something of God’s welcome through one another.”
Alongside this key culture is a missional mindset, with its community pantry, started two-years ago, a key connection with the wider community.
“We haven’t got all the answers but if we can offer love and hope to people, it’s a start,” says Tamara Clarke, who leads alongside Bret and co-ordinates the Pantry.
The church’s 40th anniversary testified to this reality, creating a party atmosphere enjoyed by a diverse cross generational community. Stories celebrating key milestones, members reflecting why they love being part of the community, and a challenge to consider how they might “have a shot” at doing something for God in the season ahead drew together the threads of past, present and future.
Says Terry, who’s been attending the church for the past seven years, “I love this community, it’s a spirit-led community.”
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