South Sydney Uniting Church is ecumenical (e.g. supporting the National and World Council of Churches) and inclusive,
affirming the gifts of people of all ages, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations and identities. We seek peace with justice,
and the integrity of creation. We celebrate a service of Word and Sacrament (Eucharist) each Sunday at 10am.

"We acknowledge the traditional owners of this land: the Gadigal people of the Eora nation."

56a Raglan Street
Waterloo NSW 2017
Phone/Fax: 02 9319 1373

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Rev. Andrew Collis
Mobile: 0438 719 470

Homily
Advent 1, Year A
South Sydney Uniting Church
December 1, 2019

Isaiah 2:1-5; Matthew 24:36-44

‘One is "taken", one is "left"’

Our gospel refers to two people, one “taken” and one “left”. It’s always seemed an enigmatic reference. One is fortunate to be “taken” by a sense or image of the sacred, of the holy. The other, perhaps the same person (you/me in a different mood or moment), is “left” with nothing but delusion/isolation, mere ideology … God be with you …

I am blessed to be taken by a primary sense or image of the sacred or holy …

Advent takes us back to the start... “I just want to see His face,” sings Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones. “Don’t want to walk and talk about Jesus/ Just want to see His face …” (1972). We might even call this a faith before faith (a sense or image of the sacred prefigures religion or theology proper).

At yesterday’s church council meeting Miriam related a welcome to country which included the words: I see country, I hear country, I speak to country … “I just want to see the face of the Earth” …

I am taken by an image of the Saviour – the baby Jesus, the wise child, the compassionate teacher, the “man of constant sorrows”, the crucified and risen Lord, enthroned on the praises of the once-oppressed … I am taken by it. I am taken with it.

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All Welcome
The church, hall and garden are accessible by way of paths and ramps. The toilets, sinks and shower, located in the hall, are wheelchair accessible. Please ask if further assistance is required.

The Orchard Gallery (artist run space) invites applications for exhibitions

Local healthy food. Subscribe & Pick Up Right Here At The Church
Tuesdays 5:30-6.30pm.

The South Sydney Herald Independent Newspaper

Donations in support
of our ministries are gratefully received
UCA South Sydney
BSB: 634 634
Acc: 100048727

This month – December

Orchard Gallery, Drawings Exhibition: Until Friday December 27, at the Church. Adrian Spry & Andrew Collis. For appointments phone 0438 719 470.

Children's Activities: Sunday, December 1 & 15, 10am. During church services, activities for children.

Gospel Conversation: Sunday, December 1, 12-1pm at the Church.

Wordplay Poetry Group: Saturday, December 7, 12pm meet at the Church. Bring along a favourite piece of writing and/or something you’ve written. All welcome.

Contemplation/Meditation: Sunday, December 8, 12-1pm in the Church.

Bible Study: Thursday, December 12, 7-9pm at the manse. A light supper will be served, all welcome!

Art Class: Saturday, December 14 & 28, 12-4pm in the Church Hall. Gold coin donation.

Birthday Celebrations: Sunday, December 15, following the church service. After church during morning tea enjoy cake and celebrate with everyone having a birthday this month.

Liturgy Resource / Worship Planning: Sunday, December 15, 12pm at the Church.

Music Jam: Friday, December 20, 3-4:30pm in the Church. A time to learn, share and workshop songs. Bring your instrument and ideas.

Pastoral Care: Saturday, December 21 for Elders.

Choir Practice: Sunday, December 22, 12-1:30pm at the Church.

Orchard Gallery Exhibition Open until Friday
December 27, 2019. Drawings