Riding the Bike

   I'm trying to get back into a more consistent exercise program for 2013 [restricted to the bike and swimming] but time is often a factor... except that when I go I remember that a big part of my role, my gifts and the way I work best is to have time to 'think' or space for thoughts to be processed!! So it's time well spent when it's spent!!
Today I was reminded of a couple of missional possibilities that are 'not rocket science'!!

The Ethnic Communities Council of Newcastle and Hunter Region at the old Waratah Bowling Club near the train station [2A Platt Street, Waratah] hosted a multi-cultural celebration this morning and ABC1233 radio were there. They talked to people I know and groups I was and wasn't aware of. If I had known about it ahead I would have gone along. Had I not been riding my bike I would not have heard it at all.
They spoke of SPICE the Islander support group at Waratah High School [by it's new name as part of Callahan High Uni links] which has changed and now includes Africans etc. There were dancers, food and the boys from Mayfield East Rugby Club. May East have 40 or so young islanders in the club despite having been out of the top Division for a few years [long story, two sides].
A congregation, faith community or group of people who felt inspired saw the intersection between their passion or energy and God's desire for the world... could [a] support and partner with the Multi-cultural centre or [b] offer support to the High School Group as mentors or ??? and/or [c] build a relationship with the young islanders and all players at May East...
The relationship is the beginning but who knows...
The dance performances and sports are connection points with the young people from various cultures who were there today... a congregation, faith community of group of individuals could do worse than a soccer afternoon once a week, a youth event with hip hop, rnb flavour [which would require significant planning, people and work].

While I'm awaiting further developments of a helping involvement with my own rugby club I will make a contact with 'Bones' and Tala and see if any help would be needed with the polynesian boys!!

I take a scenic drive when I leave the centre of Newie and I drove past the set up [at Merewether Beach] for Surfest, which goes for about 2 weeks in all but started today with the Indigenous Classic [I assume Stanley Moylan is still involved]. We used to think [and some still do] how could we run a stall, be on the street, turn up at events and evangelise people [the narrowing of language at the time] but I think today it's more inspired to think of partnering and volunteering with the organisers to serve the overall good of the group, event and community... food, bodies onsite in yellow vests, set up crew etc etc... just a thought!!

Worship ponderings are less structured but still possible churning up and down the pool... when I get back to 30 laps a session I'll report back in...