LWVT Convention, Hosted by Moorabbin-Dandenong
What a joy it was to welcome delegates & visitors to St James, Moorabbin, for the 58th LWVT Convention. The theme was “Let Not Your Hearts Be Troubled”, John 14:1.

On Friday night approximately thirty-five people gathered for a BBQ and a time of fellowship. The food was delicious, and people enjoyed the time chatting.
Saturday morning, Louise Renfree, Vice-chair of the Moorabbin-Dandenong Congregation, welcomed sixty-nine delegates, visitors, and helpers to St James. Opening Worship was led by Pastor Matthew Huckel on the Convention theme. Jenny Gellert, President of LWVT opened the Convention, followed by greetings and apologies. Jenny Pietsch then gave a brief overview of the St James Crafty Chat Group.
After morning tea, Pastor Lucas Matuschka led the Bible Study on “Let Not Your Hearts Be Troubled.” We then heard about Creative Word Fellowship, an independent Lutheran teaching mission that exists to equip people with the life-giving Word of Jesus Christ. Pastor Matthew Huckel gave a presentation titled, “Ancient Biblical and Stoic wisdom for ‘heart quakes’ ” – a very interesting presentation on ‘human emotions’.
After lunch we were entertained by Nyawarga Sham who sang Kumbaya & Amazing Grace in Nuer language. Nyawarga delayed her attendance at a wedding to be at the Convention – thank you Nyawarga.

Nyawarga pictured with Anne.
We heard reports on the work of Lutheran Media & LCA International Mission. Memorial candles were lit to remember those members who had died in the last 12 months.
Lexi Bourne made the trip from Tasmania with her young daughter to share news about the podcasts “Here She Stands.” This is an online platform where Lutheran women across Australia can come together as a community, sharing their stories and talking about ‘that which is true noble, excellent, and praiseworthy’ (Philippians 4:8). More information HERE.
Bishop Lester Priebbenow gave a report on the District, and led the closing devotion and installation of office bearers.
The offering for the day was given to the Moorabbin-Dandenong Congregation to support the ministry and welfare of the Sudanese community. All attendees received a small gift bag which included a Prayer Square; these were kindly donated by Jeanette Cox who uses these as ‘Prayer Ministry’ – if you would like any Prayer Squares, they are available from Jeanette (Email).
A very big thank you to all the members who assisted greatly in the months leading to the convention, for those who donated all the food, as well as being present and serving in numerous ways during the convention.

The feedback has been extremely positive about the smooth running of the day, the catering, and the suitability of the premises.
Thanks, to all!
