James Duff August 10th 2014 ~ may the God of peace...

As a church we are very saddened to hear of the passing of Dennis Neil. Over the coming weeks I am sure there will be many fond stories recalled and shared around the Dennis life. I only knew him for a few years and for much of that he was not well. He and Kay opened their home to my family when we first visited St Philips in early 2012 and again when we arrived to live here. This was a lovely welcome to Perth for us. Throughout the last days of Dennis’ earthly life; it has been wonderful to see the support of the church around Kay as many have visited, sat with Dennis and prayed for them and their family. I am sure the support for Kay, as she now adjusts to a new chapter in her life will continue.It is also with a heavy heart to hear of the sudden passing of Fiona Plani who was a part of the 9:30 congregation at St Philips. Fiona has wrestled the demons of depression bravely for a long time.  I honour those of you who gave your love and time to support our sister in Christ.  Please pray for her family as they mourn and remember a loving mother. I had only met her on a handful of occasions but I am sure many of you knew her and shared life with her. Please be assured of my prayers.Jesus had much to say about death and the finishing of this earthly life. He speaks of preparing places for his people and taking them to be with him into the security of his household (Oikos).Jesus says that both Dennis and Fiona are now with him and are more alive than ever. It is the certain hope of everlasting life that touches our deepest need that this earthly life is not all there is. Instead of nothingness when we die, followers of Jesus are guaranteed life in all its glory with our Maker.We mourn with Kay and family, we mourn with the Plani family, we mourn as a united church and now we stand with them in the power of the Holy Spirit with our faith in the Saviour, Jesus Christ.20 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.(Hebrews 13) BlessingsJames Duff