Riverview Review 2023 - Flipbook - Page 17
RHYS
MACHELL
GATHERINGS
In 2023, we explored teaching series’
in the books of Galatians, Ruth and
Deuteronomy, as well as exploring
what it means to outwork our
collective vision and learn about living
a Spirit-filled life. Some of the most
precious times in our gatherings have
been when we have prayed for each
other, our neighbourhoods, and our
nation.
Life Sunday was an idea that began in
2022 and these quarterly gatherings
have continued to bless our church in
2023. It’s been a privilege to dedicate
59 children and stand by each family
as they commit to raising their kids
in the way of Jesus. Baptisms are
another core part of our Life Sunday
services. Thirty people took this step
of faith in 2023, publicly professing
that they’ve placed their hope in
Jesus Christ.
Early on in 2023, a new opportunity
arose for our Sunday gatherings
at 5pm. We realised at that time of
day we could plan some fun things
that might give us chances to get
to know each other better. During
the year, we shared gelato, churros,
and sizzling sausages, enjoyed some
of the best short films of 2023 and
had an inaugural REACH trivia night.
The International Food Fair made a
successful return and it was wonderful
to enjoy the rich traditions and foods
across the ethnic diversity of our
church.
The most significant seasons are
Easter and Christmas. Thousands
come through our doors, and they are
big weekends for our teams. We are
very fortunate to have a skilled team
that can execute compelling events
on a large scale, but we also have a
growing desire to first-and-foremost,
seek Jesus at Easter and Christmas.
We always want to express life and
creativity but most of all we want to
keep the focus on Jesus and to have
an invigorated revelation of Him as we
gather at these important times.
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