2. Special Character Week 1, Term 4 2017

 This Sunday is Mission Sunday

In Bujuni, a remote parish deep in the heart of Uganda, bringing life into the world is often fraught with danger. Many women take great risks to get to the nearest affordable maternity ward at St Luke Bujuni Health Centre. Despite the tireless work of Sister Mary Goretti and her small staff, the health centre does not have the capacity to deal with the influx of high-risk pregnancies amongst the many expectant mothers. Sadly, the potential consequences can be tragic. 
With your support through MISSIO-NZ, Sister Goretti is hoping to expand St Luke’s and provide essential services for women and children. Please give generously to support women and children’s health through Jesus’ life-giving mission today.

You can donate using this link:-https://missio.nz/donate/ 

This Week's Faith Fact:-

St Ignatius of Antioch 

St. Ignatius of Antioch was born in the year 50 to a pagan family (people who do not believe in God). He later wanted to become a Christian and was converted.

Ignatius was the third bishop of Antioch. This is the city where St. Peter laboured before he moved to Rome. It is also the city where followers of Jesus were first called Christians. He was the first writer to use the term "the catholic church."

Ignatius was condemned to death by Emperor Trajan, who hated Christians. Ignatius was pushed out into the amphitheater where two fierce lions devoured him. He was a martyr who died for his belief in Christ.

He left the beautiful witness of Christian life and his letters. St. Ignatius died around 107.

He is a great example of leadership and courage for our church today.

Pope Francis when speaking to the Church Relations Committee of the United Bible Societies. (5/10/17) said that, "the word of God enlightens, protects, defends, heals and frees, ” Let’s accept Pope Francis’ challenge this term to, “…walk together to spread the word… to pray together, that the Father’s will be done…to work together, that what the Lord has said may be accomplished in us.”

God Bless

Nicola Winders