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Welcome to our 2014 Annual Report.

In the pages that follow you will find information in regards to the return on equity we are providing to our shareholders, ratios concerning our capital expenditure versus long term debt, data about the expected rate of sales growth, profiles on executive directors and an assurance that everything is being done to maximise returns while remaining completely ethical, of course. Ahhhh… in fact you will find none of that. One of the things I love about the ‘economy’ of God’s Kingdom is that it does not work the same as the ‘economy’ as we know it. GDP is out! Grace, love and peace are in. Return on equity is so yesterday. Giving and receiving forgiveness is the current trend. Return to shareholders is not the goal, rather lives filled with passionate service are apps available to all.

In the pages that follow you will find stories (and maybe a photo or two) about people. People who have had their lives changed because of an interaction with the people of our church and ultimately an interaction with God. People who have called The Gap Uniting Church their spiritual home for decades and people who have called this place home for merely months. People who have engaged openly and willing with our Months of Preaching and Teaching on Prophecy and Forgiveness. People who have been Baptised and Confirmed as a result of feeling a

call to attend the Discipleship classes. People who have trekked the mountains of the Himalayas and helped Bridge the Gap between the 1% of the world who hold 50% of the world’s wealth (that is us) and families in India who live hand to mouth. People who have devoted time, week in and week out, to help mentor a child through the Kids Hope Aus program and many, many other people who have sought to live a life of life-long discipleship through the giving out of their lives through worship, witness and service. We cannot let this opportunity go without taking the time to say that as a Ministry Team it is a joy to be able to be connected with the people of this congregation as we all seek to follow Christ, seek where the Spirit is calling us and be people who are focused on the things of God’s economy. Thank you again for the ongoing encouragement, support, grace and love you show to all of us as members of The Gap Uniting Church Ministry Team. So…grab a cuppa, a nice quiet spot, and enjoy our Annual Report. Enjoy reading about God at work through us and give thanks that we get to live out a life of discipleship where we get to partner with God in helping to bring about the Kingdom of God here and now. Grace and Peace

John Ruhle & Matt Smith

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THE GAP UNITING CHURCH “The Gap Uniting Church is part of the Uniting Church in Australia”

The Gap Uniting Church is a member congregation of the Uniting Church in Australia, Queensland Synod.

The By Laws of the Queensland Synod and Regulations of The Uniting Church in Australia govern the ways in which this Congregation worships together and participates within the Community. The Gap Uniting Church Council also follows approved Guidelines detailing the structure and operations of the Council.

The Synod has the responsibility for the general oversight, direction and administration of the Church’s work in Queensland. A Synod Office that includes support services such as the Department for Financial and Property Services largely handles these responsibilities. The Gap Uniting Church, the Moreton Rivers Presbytery and the Queensland Synod office work together to perform God’s work in the community.

OUR MINISTRY TEAM 2014 MINISTER Rev John Ruhle

FAMILIES’ PASTOR Pastor Matt Smith

CHURCH OFFICE ADMINISTRATION Faye Holmes & Silvia Lopes

LAY PREACHERS Julie Price Shirley Sargeant Malcolm Stirling

CHURCH COUNCIL 2014 CHAIR Scott McDonald

SECRETARY Sally Algate

TREASURER Ruth Grieve

CONGREGATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES Sally Algate Malcolm Campbell Anne Carseldine Lynda Dudman Ruth Grieve Ian Hayes Ross McDonald Scott McDonald Alan McLennan Wendy Rolls Pieter Swart ELDERS REPRESENTATIVES Bruce Ballantyne Lyn Orchard Esma Ross

OUR VISION Growing life-long disciples of Christ

OUR VALUES COMMUNITY – We support one another & those in need

INNOVATION – We encourage new events, activities and ministries that are Spirit led

LEARNING – We seek to deepen our faith and understanding of God

SERVICE – We are a serving Church and embrace responding with generosity

OUR PRIORITIES 1. Growing our intergenerational ministry

2. Growing our membership through belonging, welcoming and ministry opportunities

3. Growing our commitment to faith development

4. Growing the use of spiritual gifts and leadership abilities

5. Growing our call to mission beyond The Gap

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CHURCH COUNCIL REPORT On behalf of the Church Council for 2014, I am delighted to share this report of the activities, decisions and challenges faced in the past 12 months.

ACHIEVEMENTS Under the first year of our new Strategic Plan, the teams have taken hold of the congregation’s vision and put plans into action. The Care Team added a new Circle of Care welcoming people into our congregation and ran another Whole of Church Family Camp. Our Discipleship Team commenced Grow in the Dark for Evening Worship and Youth Group continued to flourish. A project to review our property and site options ran under the Finance and Admin Team. The Outreach Team helped to oversee the Bridge the Gap India Trip and continued our Walking on Country experiences with a trip to Cherburg. Retreats were coordinated and held for our musicians and worship leader by the Worship Team. All of these things were not a part of our congregation 5 years ago and have added to who we are as a congregation. As a congregation, the Council ran two discussion nights on the topics of Marriage and Eldership at the request of the National Assembly. The feedback from these nights was passed directly onto the Assembly to review and help form proposals for the Assembly meeting in 2015. I felt privileged to be involved in these discussions where people had strong and passionate feelings which were shared and received with respect and compassion. Church Community Builder (CCB) was implemented as our Church Management System. This provides us with many automation and efficiency options. While it also offers us ways to engage with people electronically, it will not replace and can never replicate direct and personal contact. This system is now used for all of our calendar and site bookings and managing our information. As I look back on 2014 I can honestly say it has been wonderful to see growth and change within our congregation. The growth and change has at times been challenging but our congregation is stronger because of the discernment, spiritual contemplation and ultimately the input and desire of many people to see God’s vision realised.

A GLIMPSE AT 2015 2015 has a whole lot of opportunities. Jo Lockie is filling a project role we are calling Project Connect. This is a 12 month project which aims to build upon the way we welcome and connect people into a care and support network and expand this to include Discipleship, Outreach, Worship, Finance and serving opportunities. The rollout with of our Church Management System (CCB) will continue empowering leaders to contact their groups, book events and schedule help and volunteers from home.

We will have some challenges to face as our Morning Worship continues to grow. How do we fit everyone in with an almost full auditorium, limited room in the foyer and no spare car parking? At the same time, Evening Worship are discerning what God is calling that service to be and ensure it is life-giving for all the people involved. Some further questions about community involvement can be asked. Now that the Child Care Centre is established what can we do to link in further? With the establishment of the Gap Farmer’s Markets is there a further opportunity to engage with our community? A main point of discernment in 2015 will be the presentation of our Property Review and deciding options to improve and enable our site to physically deliver the space needed to grow faith, share fellowship and welcome others.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Nothing in our congregation would occur without the many dedicated hours from our members. The involvement, sacrifice, consideration and assistance given throughout the year is amazing. For all those who serve and help whether it be 2 hours at April Fair or leading a group, from helping to make food for funerals to managing the sound desk, from taking time out to pray for people and programs to actively encouraging people to participate – all assistance is greatly appreciated and valued. Our paid ministry staff continue to provide us with support, guidance and reassurance as well as the challenge to reach out to our community and hear God’s word. Thank you to John, Matt, Silvia and Faye for all your passion and efforts to keep us running today and tomorrow. Overall, the role of the Church Council is to guide, shape and oversee The Gap Uniting Church. Two influential members of Church Council finished in that role in 2014. Ruth Grieve has served for many years as Church Treasurer. Bruce Ballantyne has served on the Council and has previously lead our Outreach team. Ruth and Bruce, our congregation would not be what it is today without your efforts and discernment. Thank you for responding to God’s call.

Scott McDonald (Chair)

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KIDS HOPE AUS MENTORING (KHAUS) This year the KidsHopeAus program has moved from being under the auspices of World Vision to being a separate entity. The staff remain the same. ACTIVE MENTORS: Karen Boyd, Ian Hayes, Trevor Anderson, Bev Preston, John Ruhle, Shirley Sargeant, Fiona Preston, Ruth Grieve, Sheryl McLennan, Jane Heywood, Jenna Edwinsmith, Mark Crome, Julie Stirling, Dave Axten, Ian Orchard and Katrina Arnold. TRAINED MENTORS NOT ACTIVE AT PRESENT: Colin Beavis, Lizzie Webb , Estelle Gibson, Fiona Preston, Katherine Ruhle and Adelle Taylor. Colin, Katherine and Ian Orchard have indicated they will resume mentoring mid 2015. POSITIVE RESPONSES This program is thriving with excellent support from the school, parents and teachers. There are many anecdotes of the differences occurring in these children’s lives such as increased confidence and self-esteem, greater resilience in emotionally challenging circumstances and a greater willingness to persist with school tasks. Several mentors attend school sport’s carnival or cultural events, School Easter and Christmas Services, act as judges for the school Science Fair and assist on the Chaplain’s stall at the annual school fete. Their commitment to the program is wholehearted. The Chaplain, Jocelyn Hayes is a significant support to the program; organizing the match up of mentors with students who have been recommended for the program. FROM THE MENTORS The overwhelming response from the Mentors is positive and they look forward to working with their child each week. While those taking up with new students have taken some time to develop a relationship with the child it is obvious, at year’s end, that this has been established and should lead to greater response next year. They indicate that the children looked forward to the time they spent together. Mentors found that one of the most valuable meetings held during the year was when parents were invited to come to meet the Mentors and the teaching staff. Teacher are able to give some insight into the children and their needs which provided the mentors with a good starting point for developing a relationship, if the partnership is not ongoing. Mentors complete an evaluation form twice each term which provides a record of the child’s development and is a requirement of the program. FROM THE TEACHERS AND SCHOOL STAFF Teacher support for the program is obvious from the confidential end of year assessments of the children and the program that they make. They report improvements in the children’s ability to complete tasks, improvements in behaviour and attitude and acknowledge that the children enjoy the time spent with their Mentor. Teachers have all recommended the children continue in the scheme as they progress to the next year of their education.

FROM THE STUDENTS: Students look forward to the time spent with their mentor and come to that time with great enthusiasm. It is also obvious, as one moves amongst the children at the school, that they have developed a good relationship with their mentor and that they are excited to see them around the school and at school activity. Some of the children and their families have also invited Mentors to be part of other things in their lives and to attend various school functions. Most of the children have asked their Mentors if they will be working with them next year and when it is discussed they are very pleased that this will be the case. Some students have had a long relationship of five years before graduating to tertiary education in 2015. Some mentors of are maintaining contact for a few months into 2015 as the transition is made. 2015 PROGRAM: We will be able to commence with 14 mentors in 2015, with three mentors indicating they will resume mentoring halfway through the year. It is our intention to run another training course for mentors in the first half of 2015 to expand this important outreach. As the program is becoming well known in the school community, there is an increasingly positive response from parents when the mentoring opportunity is presented. APPRECIATION: This KHAUS program has made a positive contribution to the welfare of the students at the school over the past six years and has assisted in making our Church an important part of the school community. Thanks must be recorded to the Principal, Peter Cooper and the Chaplain Jocelyn Hayes for their support for the program and for the work they do in selecting students and supporting any activity we have at the school. Many thanks also to those in our congregation who have supported the program financially and with prayer partners and to the church groups that have done this and/or funded catering and other things for some of our events at the school.

Julie Stirling Coordinator KHAUS The Gap Uniting Church

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CARE TEAM REPORT

The motivation and purpose of the Care Team is “to facilitate and encourage activities which support and care for all members of our congregation through supporting and developing their spiritual and physical well-being”. The Care Team and the groups under our umbrella were again provided with many opportunities in 2014 to fulfil this role of providing care and nurture to the congregation. March 2nd saw the Ruhle’s hosting the annual Welcome morning tea which provided a good opportunity to connect with new families. The annual bush camping weekend at the Marnane Property on Noosa’s North Shore was held on the 7-9 March. A great time was had relaxing, fishing and catching up with friends. If you enjoy bush camping and have never been involved in this camp chat to Paul or Cynthia Marnane. The biennial Church Family Camp was held at Camp Bornhoffen in July with approx. 90 members of our congregation attending. We were blessed again to have Steve Bennett leading this event with a wonderful band of helpers who provided us with great music, entertainment and insight. The Pastoral Care Group (PCG) comprising of the Elders and Pastoral Carers continue to provide care to the Congregation through Circles of Care and Pastoral Lists. Thanks go to the Elders and Pastoral Carers who also helped the Ministry Team with Communion and Baptisms, maintained the prayer chain and provided meals and flowers for those experiencing difficult times. Fiona Harris, Michael Prince, and Christine Jackson were elected as Elders at the Congregational Meeting on 23 November. Janice Harris, Bev Preston, Margaret Reddcliffe and Julie Stirling also were elected for further terms. We thank all these people for their willingness to serve our church in this way. I would like to sincerely thank retiring Pastoral Carer, Mavis Algate who had served as both an Elder and Pastoral Carer for many years with enthusiasm, discernment and wisdom. Membership Sunday held on 2 November was a great time with 16 adults and 17 kids being welcomed into our congregation across both services. The Care Team also provided support to the parents of the Youth Group through coffee evenings held each term. This was a good opportunity to connect with parents of the young people attending and also with the parents of the Arana Hills youth who have joined with our Youth Group this year. It is with a little sadness that I report that the Ladies Evening Fellowship will not be meeting in 2015. This group has met for 53 years providing a relaxed time of fun and friendship to those who have attended. I would like to thank all who have held positions from the first president, Bau Earle to the current co-ordinator, Jenna Edwinsmith for your enthusiasm, support and leadership of this group. The Care Team is very excited to have the opportunity to work with Jo Lockie in 2015 through Project Connect to explore and implement activities and events to help people connect more fully to The Gap Uniting Church.

I would like to acknowledge and thank everyone for providing support and care in the many and varied ways to the members of this congregation throughout the year. There are lots of events and activities planned for 2015 in the life of our church, if you would like any information on any of the groups, activities under The Care Team please contact either myself, Lyn Orchard, Janice Harris, Lynda Dudman or John Ruhle. We are also extremely grateful for leadership, care and support that the leaders of the following groups provide.

Anne Carseldine Convener MEMBERSHIP ROLLS As at 31.12.14, the membership rolls and related records show the following data:- Confirmed members 260 Baptised members 171 Members in association 5 Adherents 53 INFANT/CHILD BAPTISMS (four during 2014) Amelia Valentine, Mila Ingram, Lucy Carpenter, Abby Carpenter. Baptismal anniversary cards are sent by an Elder or Pastoral Carer for 5 years after a child’s baptism and birthday cards are sent to all children on the Cradle Roll by Cheryl Bettenay. YOUNG ADULT BAPTISM (one) Anna McConachy DEDICATION (four) Zoe Le Cureux, Kate Baulderstone, Logan Sanderson, Elizabeth Earle.

CONFIRMEES: Angus Campbell, Rebecca Lupton, Bede Prince, Steven Reynolds, Emma Reynolds, Katie Reynolds, Jack Sims, Tiaan Swart, Pamela, Taukuro, Matthew Tong-Law, Ryan Turner and Katie Vosloo FORMALLY WELCOMED: Johan, Ronel, Katie-Jane & Jaimie Vosloo, Brett, Mairi, Lewis, Aidan & Hamish Scott, Lode, Amber & Alira De Brabander, Paul, Debbie, Caitlin & Summer Jackson, David, Jo, Luka & Indigo Lockie, Anna, Matilda, Polly &Emilia Lagos, Steve, Canda, Steven, Katie & Emma Reynolds, Kellie, Jayden & Kirra Moule. TRANSFERRED: Julie McKinnon to Toowong U.C. DEATHS: We were saddened by the death of Harold Carrodus during the year. Five funeral services were held in the church in 2014.

LADIES' EVENING FELLOWSHIP We have enjoyed our get togethers this year. We found we had to cancel a couple of nights as people were away or had other commitments. Evening Fellowship was formed in 1961 for women of all ages who enjoyed an evening out and having friendship and fellowship in a relaxed atmosphere. Bau Earle was our first President and has attended since that year. We met for a committee meeting and a social evening every month until 2008 when we decided to meet only on the fourth Wednesday of the month. We have had lots of laughter and fellowship over the years but sadly numbers have dwindled and we have decided not to continue. The Ladies’ Evening Fellowship also organised the ladies’ annual dinner and this will continue – organised by members of the Day Fellowship. Jenna Edwinsmith

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LADIES' DAY FELLOWSHIP Perfection – such a daunting word I am sure you will all agree. Then I read this slogan “Perfection can be lots of small things done really well”. I truly believe that sums up the fellowship we share and we all should be justly proud of another amazing team effort this year. I also include others outside our group who regularly and generously offer their much appreciated support. Activities during the year included hosting World Day of Prayer, outings to a movie and lunch, Gallery of Modern Art, tour of the City Hall, Mission Thanksgiving Service, lunch to celebrate all of our birthdays. We packed 50 boxes of biscuits for Senior Friendship members and others in need of TLC at the close of the year. Our monthly catering for Probus, after funeral refreshments, Presbytery dinner for 60 people, supplying 600 slices for the High School Sports Awards, wedding and a donation to the Chaplaincy dinner has allowed us to distribute $5000 to support Uniting World, Aboriginal Literacy, Frontier Services, Chaplaincy in Primary Schools, Prison Ministry, Discipleship meals and others all listed in the financial statement. The 100 bibles proposed as a donation to the Church at the end of last year, after much agonising and preparation, now stand proudly in the pews to be used during worship. Now to thanks. I really must mention that in the space of one week in September we catered for two funerals and 100 Probus morning teas. Quite an accomplishment. Thank you to all members for your continued enthusiasm, support and encouragement. To all who have held positions thank you for jobs well and cheerfully done. Thank you to Secretary Jenna Edwinsmith always quietly efficient and thank you to Treasurer Alma Schofield for managing our finances so well also many thanks to Auditor Barrie Rollason. We look forward in faith to the coming year remembering that yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and today is a gift, that is why it is called the present.

Janice Harris President

WALKING GROUP The Walking Group again had a year of pleasant interaction and walking. Our walking year is from February to October inclusive because of the summer heat. As always our week-ends away as a group were very popular with thirty people staying at Crows Nest Caravan Park in February and twenty-seven people plus one day visitor at Alex. Beach Cabins and Tourist Park at Alexandra Headlands in October. There aren't many locations where there are sufficient cabins to accommodate the group even though some people stay in their own caravans. Three other walks had fourteen walkers and two had twenty walkers. At times the numbers are very much influenced by the times of the year when people choose to take their own vacations. If you are a person who would like to walk with pleasant company on walks that aren't too challenging, have a talk to Lynelle or Peter Watson who are Joint Co-ordinators.

Lynelle & Peter Watson Leaders

CIRCLES OF CARE During 2014 a new circle – number 12 - was set up with Jo Lockie and John Ruhle in the centre. Most groups have had several gatherings during the year, ranging from morning tea in a park, dessert and coffee, morning tea after worship, trivia evening, BBQ and swim etc. The decisions on how/where to meet is left to each circle as what suits one doesn’t necessarily suit another. Between gatherings members contact people either side of them to check how they are going. If the need arises the elder or pastoral carer in the centre of the circle is contacted. If you are not in a circle & would like to know more about how the concept operates please do not hesitate to get in touch with me.

Lyn Orchard Circles of Care Co-ordinator

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PASTORAL CARE GROUP 2014 ELDERS Bruce Ballantyne Jeannie Ballantyne Karen Boyd Terry Edwinsmith Janice Harris Val Jenkins Kate Modderman Lyn Orchard Bev Preston Margaret Reddicliffe Barrie Rollason Esma Ross Julie Stirling Cathi Taukuro Marion Thomas Glenda Whittred Merrilyn Williams PASTORAL CARERS Bev Adams Pam Ainsworth Mavis Algate Lorna Cook Jenna Edwinsmith Sheryl McLennan Estelle Gibson Ruth Grieve Jo Lockie Margaret Naylor Julie Price Margaret Shield Gwenda Spencer Barbara Waltisbuhl Carol Woodrow Noel Logan

THE NOUWEN NETWORK THE GAP UNITING CHURCH 2014 The Nouwen Network is based on the work of the Dutch-born Catholic priest, professor and writer, Henri Nouwen. It is a Spirit-directed network of church communities that promotes an awareness of mental health issues, and provides support for individuals experiencing mental health concerns, their families, friends and carers. As part of this network, The Gap Uniting church group shared four lunches at Café Tara with approximately 20 members of our own and other churches who have been touched in some way by mental illness. We welcomed several people from Mt Gravatt church and 2 visitors from Melbourne. In March 2014 we arranged an evening to discuss anxiety and depression with approximately 60 people attending. Two general practitioners spoke on diagnosis and treatment, a pharmacist spoke on medication, a social worker spoke on the impact of mental illness on families and carers, and a congregation member spoke on her own personal experience with depression. In August, we held a High-Tea in the church foyer for people caring for someone with a mental illness. This too was well attended. One guest speaker spoke about the services provided by the Qld Council of Carers and another spoke about methods for relaxation and the need for self-care. The group was very appreciative of the small cushions made by GUCCE which were given as gifts to people attending our lunches. We are planning to continue these activities throughout 2015. Margaret Shield

BUSH CAMP The annual camping weekend at Noosa North Shore was held in March, and 28 people attended. There were people who have been many times and first-timers, and it was great that all could talk together and come to know each other better. This is, after all, the main purpose of the camp – to allow time and space for more extended conversations than can happen after church. It was especially great to see relationships among the young people develop and grow – Scattegories was enjoyed by all. The weather was kind to us, the fishing was fun but not productive, the surf was OK, the mossies behaved themselves and did not eat too many of us, and the shared meal on Saturday night, on the beach, was once again a highlight. It is a delight to be part of this church family, and even better, to spend some quality time with one another. See you in 2015. Cynthia Marnane

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DISCIPLESHIP TEAM REPORT

A simple vision statement – “Growing life-long Disciples of Christ” – is the vision our congregation has. While it may sound simple it is a worthy vision that permeates everything we do as a congregation. In our worship, care, outreach, administration & discipleship, our vision as a congregation is to be Growing Life-Long Disciples of Christ. It’s been an exciting vision to pursue this year and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit we’ve seen God working in lives in amazing ways. A highlight on this lifelong journey was to see so many people publicly commit their lives to Christ through confirmation and baptism following the Discipleship classes that were run this year. Another highlight was the “Passionate Service” short course, having a course like that where people were encouraged to know their own gifting and to be serving in an area where they felt called to serve helped set a great culture within the congregation. The many other highlights are detailed in the reports below.

CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Christian Religious Education (CRE) continued at Payne Road State School and The Gap State School in 2014. PAYNE ROAD STATE SCHOOL The year at PRSS went well and finished with a Christmas presentation for the whole school - thanks to Matt Smith for his assistance at this event. A Christmas food collection for COMMUNIFY was organized as a gift from the school community to people in need. This was well supported. One of our CRE teachers, has indicated that she will be taking a break from teaching next year. If the other teachers continue, this should not be a problem as there will be no year 7 classes in the primary schools next year. THE GAP STATE SCHOOL: The team teaching approach for assembly style classes at T.G.S.S. continues to be regarded as successful by both teachers and C.R.E. instructors. The assembly format includes singing, often an interactive game and multi-media content. Team teaching allows for collaboration of ideas and styles from the teachers, and enhances lesson variety. Grades 1 through to 5 were taught for a 30 minute lesson for 5 lessons per term. Both the Easter and Christmas services hosted by The Gap Uniting have been appreciated by the school community, with quite a few parents choosing to attend this service. Both John Ruhle and Matt Smith are regularly teaching throughout the year.

DAY CAMP 2014: The value of the Day Camp ministry to the broader community is seen through very strong participation from families in our area. The quality of the camp is outstanding at every level, beginning with pre- camp leadership training right through to craft and cooking activities. Most importantly, the quality of the leaders we have sent from our church (mostly High School teens and young adults) is the critical ingredients for the Camp’s enduring popularity. It’s their positive and enthusiastic care of the children which makes Day Camp really extraordinary. There were 16 leaders from The Gap Uniting and over 90 children from the area who attended. Total camper numbers this year were 240 children. Matt Smith was part of the 4 person Director’s team for 2014.

SEPTEMBER CAMP: This camp was again a great experience for 12 high schoolers from The Gap Uniting. This year it was held at Bonhoffen, Numinbah Valley with 45 campers from across the Presbytery. For five days, teens engaged in Bible study and discussion, vibrant worship and leisure activities. On camp, the youth were encouraged to practice acts of kindness and thoughtfulness to others – even strangers. Strong friendships have been developed between the high schoolers returning to September Camp over their secondary years, which helps them connect as young adults to faith communities beyond their church.

BIBLE STUDY. Our church is very blessed in having at least 4 quality Bible Study groups in operation this year. Several of the groups have met for almost a decade, with one passing this milestone. A junior ladies group meets regularly also. What is evident when visiting these groups is the joy and companionship generated by each group. Study and fellowship go together. The resources used to guide the discussion bring to life the words of the Bible so that the participants grow in their understanding of God’s word to us. Congregational members are invited to join an existing group or if numbers permit, form a new group. A church that Bible Studies together, grows in Grace together!

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GROW SUNDAY SCHOOL: I am extremely proud of our Grow Sunday School. We are able to offer a really special program to the young people of The Gap Uniting Church. I feel blessed to work with amazing people and to see the hand of Jesus guiding our young ones. Over the last few years we have seen Grow grow! The program has been lovingly tendered by both our ministry team and our many, many lay teachers and helpers and it is certainly flourishing. A big thank you to those who give of the time and talents in order that this ministry be on offer most weeks of the year. In 2014 the following have been loyal contributors - Jeremy Anderson, Angela Buchanan, Tim Davidson, Fi Harris, Andrew Holmes, Emma Holmes, Cara LeCureux, Andrea Morris-Campbell, Kerry Marnane, Brianna Marnane, Cathy Orchard, Miriam Prince, Mel Perkins, Bev Preston, Kath Ruhle, Cassie Sommer, Lynn Stoddart, Lynnette Swart, Pamela Taukuro, Ronel Vosloo, Owen Webb, and Terry Edwinsmith (Treasurer). We also had some guest spots with Isaac Bennett, Dave Lockie and Connor Prince. Some of these wonderful teachers are there every week, some once a month and some once a term – without them our Sunday School would not be the wonderful program that it is. Our model has continued to work well with the following classes meeting Sunday mornings: Sprouts (Ages 3 to 5), Grow 1-2 (Grades 1 & 2), Grow 3-4 (Grades 3 & 4), Grow 5–6 (Grades 5 & 6), Grow Plus (Grades 7, 8, 9) and Digging In (Grades 10 & up). At the beginning of Second Semester, recognising that Sunday mornings don’t always work with busy families especially with sport commitments, we introduced “Grow in the Dark”, a Sunday School program as part of our 6pm Evening Worship. Ronel Vosloo joined the Grow team to coordinate this group which is predominantly aimed at primary aged children. It follows a multi-age format, following roughly the same curriculum as morning classes but includes a light dinner. The both morning and evening lessons continue to be linked to the worship teaching theme and, in the morning, the children’s lesson in worship. This enables the key message to be communicated in a number of different ways & also allows families to be informed and further explore the topic at home. As in 2013, we have mostly utilised the Scripture Union “Light” curriculum once again making use of their on-line reference material. MISSION FOCUS - We have continued to have a mission focus in both semesters – first semester the Grow children take part in the UnitingWorld “Lent Event” program. As well as utilising the resource that informs us all on the various projects undertaken by UnitingWorld it is also opportunity for the children to give something up for Lent and donate what would have spent been on that to the UnitingWorld Lent Event appeal. In second semester, Grow learnt more about the UnitingWorld North India Education Project over 3 lessons. The children met Ravinder a young Indian girl who has difficult choices in her life often preventing her from attending school. We deliberately chose this project to support as 3 Grow members participated in the “Bridge the Gap North India Trek” & our market raised $237.60 to go towards the work that this trek supports.

GROW GARDEN - Our garden continues to flourish under the tender care of Fi Harris and John Ruhle. Fi and John have managed to harvest some produce from which has been shared amongst those in our congregation by way of a few market Sundays. Also, Fi produced some delicious chutney the sale of which has gone into our Grow Sunday School funds to support the program.

FINANCIAL REPORT - Our financial statement is provided separately to this report and is collated by our treasurer Terry Edwinsmith. Once again, I would like to acknowledge all who support Grow – with their prayers, time and talents!

Faye Holmes Coordinator

KIDZ CLUB: With committed leadership from Jocelyn Hayes, Emma Holmes and Ruth Lupton, Kidz Club continued to be a significant friendship club for children in The Gap Uniting. Attendance averaged around 15 children each night, but always with the faithful support of Jessica and Tahlia Ruhle! Leading a Kidz Club requires enormous amounts of energy and friendliness, and a willingness to be a good sport! We sincerely thank Jocelyn, Emma, Ruth and Matt for their combined efforts to provide a welcoming place for children where the Gospel and friendship are shared.

YOUTH GROUP: 2014 was significant as we merged with Arana Hills Uniting Youth Group, meeting at The Gap church. Leadership was also bolstered with the attendance of Mr Peter Gordon and Mr Bruce Goldberg who lead the Arana Hills Youth. The average attendance at Youth Group was 25 and we also hosted two presbytery youth events, with attendance at each over 100 young people. The superb leadership efforts of Hayley Maybury and Bronte Rolls has taken the group to another level, with the role –modelling and relationship building from these two young women as a very significant aspect of the group’s success. The Youth Group has bid farewell to 13 graduating seniors of 2014, with a Brisbane River Night Kayak adventure. The Youth Group is very appreciative of the commitment and involvement from so many of these fantastic young people to their church, with their service to many functions and events throughout the year.

With God’s help we look forward to continuing our exciting journey through 2015, this journey of being a lifelong disciple of Christ’s.

Mal Campbell on behalf of The Discipleship Team.

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2014 has seen another year of positive growth across our many programs and activities and is reflective of the support that our members provide, both financial and in their donations of time and talents. For the committees that report through this team and their members involved, a special thank you for all that has and is being achieved.

PROPERTY COMMITTEE This team oversees and implements all the work that needs to happen to effectively maintain our property, ranging from such things as mowing rosters to church cleaning, to working bees and building maintenance projects to our sound and computer systems This work can best be described as a blend of volunteers and what is becoming an increasing trend – the need to outsource and pay for work to be completed. The practical reality of paying to have work done means more added pressure to the Church budget to meet those costs, within a total context of how to fund our existing and potential future programs and activities. . That pressure is relieved where volunteers can make their time available and we do not have to pay to complete some of that work. I encourage you to look at discussing with the Property Committee the type of work you might be able to do and then agreeing to be placed on a standby list for you to be contacted if and when such work arises.

OFFICE / ADMINISTRATION We continue to develop and streamline the way the office operates. New systems and programs continue to be introduced and developed such as with the Church Builder Software to coordinate and keep pace with the increasing workloads being generated by our various programs and activities. As in previous years, a special mention needs to be made of how well the shared Office Management role is working with the skills and initiatives that Silvia and Faye bring to this work.

CHURCH FINANCIALS The 2014 final result was a surplus of $129. When framing a budget, challenges always arise in how to deal with an increasing need for funds in the context of a seemingly limited amount of income. When you look at the detailed income and expense figures, what is clear is the increasing reliance this Church has on fundraising to supplement the ‘tithing’ from our membership. We need to be mindful of the importance of these various fundraising events (Garage Sale / April Fair / etc) and ensure that these activities are actively supported with our time and talents.

APRIL FAIR/GARAGE SALE These are our major annual fund raisers and also represent a wonderful opportunity for this church to witness into the wider community. April Fair remains an “awesome” event in our church and community calendar. It has now grown to where it needs to operate in two parts with the garage sale (usually held in February) serving as a precursor to the April Fair. Both of these events have seen community attendances continuing to grow year on year. For those not previously or currently involved, these events provide a practical and valued way to support this church that requires a relatively short commitment prior to and then on the event day. There is also the opportunity to experience a sense of community as you work with a wide variety of our church membership to ensure the success of these events. In 2015, a suitable weekend in April could not be found and the committee decided on a March date. For this reason, the fair will be re-badged as the Autumn Fair from 2015.

THE LONG TERM DAY CARE - WESLEY MISSION BRISBANE (“WMB”) The Long Term Day Care Centre opened in the first quarter of this year, and is already operating at near full capacity with waiting lists for future years. It is drawing many new families to our site and is a wonderful new window for our Church to interact with the local community. This quote from the Child Care Centre’s internet site describes its activities: “The Gap Child Care Centre is a newly established not-for-profit community based long day care centre providing education and care for 48 children aged six months to five years of age. The centre offers a responsive learning environment guided by the Early Years Learning Framework and a kindergarten program led by an Early Childhood teacher to help children to transition into Prep. We believe in providing children with opportunities to explore, investigate and learn about the world they live in. We provide an open-ended environment, in which the children’s voices are heard. Our team of qualified and experienced early childhood educators provide programs enriched with learning opportunities and moments of wonder”.

THE CEMETERY TRUST This small group oversees one of the few remaining “cemeteries” still active in the Brisbane area. Their work ranges anywhere from the arranging and digging of graves, internment of ashes in the appropriate niches, the maintenance and repairs to gravesites to the necessary record keeping that is involved.

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION TEAM REPORT

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OUTREACH TEAM REPORT

There are eight regular activities run at The Gap Uniting Church through its Outreach program providing activities for a vast range of ages. Some of these activities are becoming so popular that they are now run multiple times a week compared to when they began as once a week activities. This includes Playgroup and Fit After Fifty that are now run 4 & 5 times a week respectively. The activities within these groups varies from music, to play, to craft, to education, to fitness, to eating together but they all provide a very strong underlying theme of fellowship and companionship in a Christian environment. We believe that the activities for which the Outreach Team has oversight strongly support our goal of being a serving church within the community. We are grateful for the efforts of the leaders and support members of the following groups who throughout the year have organised and run their programs for the benefit of the participants. Senior Friendship Group Men’s Group Playgroups Refugee Support First Steps in Music Prison Ministry Fit after 50 Ecumenical Pantry Homeless Connect GUCCE Craft Luncheons for Those Who eat Alone

BRIDGE THE GAP NORTH INDIA TREK Our main event for international mission this year has been the Bridge the Gap North India Trek. Twelve participants paid for their own trips and were then required to raise a further $2000 each to provide funds to the local schools and communities in the Amritsar Diocese, in North India. As a group, they raised $38,900. The travellers spent a few days in the community and then trekked in the lower regions of the Himalayas. Following their adventures, the travellers were able to give stories not only of the travels, but also insights gained from visiting a completely different world.

During the year the Outreach team has supported a number of appeals as well as promoting opportunities for the congregation to donate directly to other needs including the Lent Event, and Christmas Bowl Appeal. Details of the these specific appeal contributions are provided at left.

IN SUMMARY “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections periodically, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.” — Author Unknown This quote says it all. To all who are involved in the work of this church, and especially those who are part of the various committees that report to the Finance and Administration Team, please accept this simple and heartfelt thanks for all your efforts and support. And a special thanks to our hard working Treasurer Ruth Grieve who has been kept busy with all the different projects we have been dealing with in 2014. Related REPORTS provided include: CHURCH FINANCIALS CEMETERY TRUST APRIL FAIR AND GARAGE SALE

Ian Hayes Convenor

CEMETERY TRUST OUR PURPOSE: To oversee the operation of the Cemetery and Memorial Walls OUR ACTIVITY: To arrange for the digging of Graves and recording of burials. To record the reservation of niches in the Memorial Wall To place the ashes containers in their appropriate niche, secure

the plaque and record details in the register. To oversee the maintenance of the grounds and to effect any

necessary changes. ANNUAL STATISTICS Burials : 2 Interments: 11 Reservations: 7 Niches available: 255 = 33.4% of capacity We would like to thank the men & young men on the Ground Roster for their efforts at keeping the grounds looking respectable.

Alan Wallis, Registrar

Jeff Hilder, Assistant Registrar

Outreach Team Support

Organisation Appeal Amount

North India Trek Support for 4 participants $4000.00

Uniting World Philippines Typhoon Appeal $1000.00

Uniting World Tongan Typhoon Appeal $500.00

New Ireland PNG Church Appeal for new generator $1000.00

Total $4,500.00

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RATION SHED TRIP In May this year, the Outreach Team organised a group of 24 people to travel by bus to Cherbourg to visit the Ration Shed Museum. This museum enables visitors to see and experience what life was like for indigenous people living under the Aboriginal Protection Act during the first half of the 20th century, as well as highlighting Aboriginal culture and contemporary Cherbourg life. It is run by the local people who tell their own stories. Reports from the individual groups follow.

Ross McDonald Convenor

FIRST STEPS IN MUSIC During 2014, First Steps Early Childhood Music Classes, led by Katherine Ruhle, were run on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings in the Church Foyer. Throughout the year, around seventy families enjoyed participating in the classes. It was lovely to have a mix of mothers, fathers, grandparents and nannies attend the classes with their children aged from 6 months to 5 years. First Steps in Music was once again given the opportunity to perform at the April Fair. With the theme ‘Cinderella’, nearly one hundred First Steps children and community children sang, danced and laughed along with Matt Smith, Hayley Maybury and Katherine Ruhle. First Steps in Music aims to provide a positive link between the Church and the community and I can see this occur as parents support each, parents borrow books and DVD’s from our Church library and families feel comfortable to attend Church.

Kath Ruhle FIT AFTER FIFTY This is a community oriented fitness program which is mainly attended by people not otherwise associated with our congregation. It is greatly appreciated by the 70-80 people who attend on a regular basis. Bookings are not required and attendees are able to turn up when they can and were charged $5 per one hour session. Sessions held on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and evenings (8-9am and 6.30-7.30pm) were taken by Rhiannon Earle who commenced with the group after Roberta Rice left in 2013. Rhiannon was a newly trained fitness instructor and despite her youth, worked well with the participants, most of whom are over 60 years old. The evening sessions had fallen off in numbers in 2013 but with Rhiannon taking them over, numbers increased. Most participants attend two sessions a week, either the two morning or two evening sessions. Wednesday morning sessions (8-9am) continue to be taken by Terri Kozak. This smallish group tends to ‘stand-alone’ and are happy to just have the one session per week, focusing on gentler exercises. The program not only provides an avenue for improving physical wellbeing, it also provides social engagement which is enhanced through regular morning teas and a yearly luncheon. Towards the end of the year Rhiannon advised us she would have to move to NSW due to her husband being transferred with his work so we were once again on the search for a replacement instructor. Under new arrangements implemented after Roberta Rice left, all instructors were employed as casuals by the church and Terri continues in this employment.. In 2015, a contract has been signed with Ruth Reinhard of Health Thru Fitness, to provide

the four sessions Rhiannon was responsible for at an agreed rate. Sessions held on Tuesday evenings have now been moved to Monday evenings while the other three (Tuesday & Thursday mornings & Thursday evening) will continue as is. The contract also includes a replacement instructor should Ruth be unavailable. Due to an increase in costs it was also determined that session costs would rise to $6 a session for all classes including Wednesday. We thank our instructors, Terri and Rhiannon, for the wonderful job they have done in helping us keep fit and healthy in 2014 and we look forward to more challenging exercises and fun times ahead. I would also like to thank the rest of the committee comprising Lyn Orchard, Barbara Waltisbuhl, Beryl Edwards and Janette Marshall for their efforts through the year.

Sally Algate Chair, Fit after 50 Committee

GUCCE

(GAP UNITING CHURCH CRAFT EXPERIENCE) We have once again successfully run four terms of craft classes with up to 35 participants many of whom are not from our church, and provided child minding for little ones. On going scrapbooking has been provided all year under Elaine Wallis’ guidance and other classes have included: Button jewellery, pop up cards, knitted beaded bracelets, ‘clever chic’ upcycling plates, old doilies into bunting, Christmas novelties, unfinished objects that have been happily completed. We have very much appreciated the time our talented teachers have given us to make such wonderful craft. We are always on the look out for new crafts and talented teachers. A special vote of thanks to Elaine Wallis, our wonderful talented director of the scrapbooking group. Elaine has been with us since day one & has been an inspiration to all everyday since. Due to her declining health late this year, she is still scrapping but taking a bit of a back seat just for a change. While on the subject, husband Alan has been an absolute tower of strength in all that time transporting Elaine’s large quantity of scrapbooking materials. So a vote of thanks to Alan too, who can now sit in the back seat as well. You are an amazing team & we pray God’s blessing on you both. We also extend our thanks to those attending meetings on Tuesday evenings who set up the GUCCE tables for us and for Terry Edwinsmith, and Sally and John Algate who fill in where necessary. We look forward in faith to our eleventh year and trust our outreach to the community will continue to grow. GUCCE now boasts a very colourful Facebook page – please feel free to visit.! Keep crafting.

Janice Harris - for GUCCE

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LUNCHEONS FOR THOSE WHO EAT ALONE. Eleven lunches were held in 2014 in the Upper John Knox Hall on the first Sunday of each month from February to December. Our guests came from The Gap and nearby suburbs. There was an average of 34 paying guests at the meals as well as our team of cooks and helpers and occasionally, speaker. About 50 of us enjoyed sharing lunch together each month. We welcomed 5 new guests this year and lost 7 through moving house, health or personal reason. Sadly, Ursula Cornish and Val Jarius passed away during 2014. There are 43 active guests now on our roll. In July, Mary Brand’s grand-daughter, Emily and her friend, Charlotte, came to help as part of a school project and also gave short talks about their upcoming trip to Borneo. August was our 16th birthday and Beverley Crouch and Jim Crellin provided some musical entertainment that was enjoyed by all. Fifty-six meals were served at our Christmas lunch and Wendy Rolls organized a small singing group that entertained us with some beautiful carols. Rev. John Ruhle and his children and Pastor Matt Smith have joined us on occasion with Matt giving a short talk at one of the luncheons. At the beginning of the year we were pleased to welcome Carol Woodrow to the team as a cook and reluctantly allowed Jim Boyd to retire from his dishwashing, driving and setting up activities. We thank him for his many years of service to this group. Our thanks also go to Terry Edwinsmith and Tom Spencer who have been coming at the end of the meal to help with cleaning up and putting away tables and chairs and to our drivers who provide transport to those guests who need it. We give thanks to God for his many blessings to this group during 2014. Bev Hansen and Esma Ross. MENS GROUP The Men's Group continued to meet on a monthly basis from February to December during 2014. The program was organised such that there was a meeting at the Church every second month, and then on the alternate months there would be an outing, incorporating lunch, around SE Qld. During the Church meetings members of the group spoke about their experiences with one meeting incorporating a BBQ lunch instead of the usual well catered morning tea. We also had Matt Smith talk on his working life and Scott of Antarctica, and during the first Breakfast meeting we had John Ruhle speak on East Timor. The outings consisted of a train trip to Springfield, visit to the MacArthur Museum, visit to QIMR, visit to Qld Mounted Police Horse Training Facility, train trip to Morayfield and a very successful break up lunch at Mt Coot-tha Botanical gardens. The number of men attending varied between 16 to 30 for the outings, and from 22 to 29 for meetings at the Church, and it is evident that the men continue to enjoy good fellowship during their time together. At this stage the program for 2015 is being formulated, and it will continue on the same basis as 2014, with meetings at the church every two months, and outings on the alternate months. Brian Edwards and Alan Waltisbuhl

PLAYGROUP In 2014, the Gap Uniting Church Playgroup continued to run four mornings a week, (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday) in Lower John Knox, and was led by Karen Boyd & Katherine Ruhle, and a team of over 20 Church volunteers. We had around 40 families regularly attending throughout the year & many other families come on an occasional basis. As in past years, we had a lovely mix of Mums, Dads, nannies & lots of grandparents who brought their children to have fun, explore and play in our safe, welcoming environment. Some highlights for the year were: Taking the children to the GROW vegetable garden to help

water, with our new watering cans, & pick and eat the produce. Dress up Week: children enjoyed dressing up and our playgroup

won a wonderful $500 Crayola pack because we donated our dress-up money to playgroups in need.

Christmas/Breakup Week: It was wonderful having Matt Smith tell the Christmas story using his artwork. The children also loved making Christmas craft, eating Christmas food and receiving a Christmas book.

Watching children (and adults) make new friends and gain confidence.

SENIOR FRIENDSHIP GROUP Once again we have enjoyed happy times, interesting people and, most of all, special friendships. Our group has now been going for 31 years. We enjoyed guest speakers on electricity (Noel Logan), healthy eating for seniors, Barbara Laidlaw on her early years in a POW camp in Hong Kong, and Donna Davis bringing another entertaining presentation, partially in verse. We also enjoyed a musical morning with local whistler Richard Wade, soup day, reminiscing about holidays in the more distant past, an old-time movie, morning tea at Zegatos, a couple of successful bring-and-buys, games, quizzes and singing. Bingo proved to be popular – just for fun, no money involved.

We were very sad at the passing of Val Jarius during the year. Val was wheelchair bound as a result of polio when she was a child but she always was cheerful and chatty, and got out and about whenever she could. Quite a few of us went to her funeral service. As would be expected several of our members have had health concerns and our attendance fluctuates from month to month. Currently we have 28 members and next year 2 ladies from the West Ashgrove group will be joining us. We couldn’t operate without the wonderful help of our cooks, sandwich makers, kitchen helpers and drivers, and also our dedicated treasurer and transport co-ordinator. They make a great team and I couldn’t ask for better support. It’s been my pleasure to be involved with all the lovely people who make our group special.

Desleigh Byrne

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WORSHIP TEAM REPORT

The Worship Team has oversight of the worship services and the rosters for activities which facilitate these services. Our stated Motivation and Purpose is To celebrate the life changing power of God through innovative contemporary worship & support the Ministry Team in enabling dreams to become reality having due regard to traditional liturgies & worship practices. The Team has made considerable progress in growing our intergenerational ministry.

MORNING WORSHIP Morning Services continued in strength in 2014 (see attendance graph). These services were prepared with the 8.30am planning team, which met each month with John Ruhle and, on occasions, with Matt Smith and other preachers. This team includes worship co-ordinators and others involved in the services. John shared his dreams and together we brainstormed ideas for music, dramas, puppet plays, and visuals to facilitate worship. We have striven to maintain a balance of our heritage whilst embracing the future with music and technology. Nearly 40 musicians, across a wide range of ages and roles, have shared their talents in helping worship God. Others involved in worship included 20 bible readers, nine people in pastoral prayer, five computer operators, five sound specialists, 16 stewards and four service co-ordinators. Others helped as puppeteers and in drama. This year has seen the development of a drama team ably led by Dave Axten and have been rehearsing for some months in preparation for our Passion Play in 2015.

If you are interested in learning about any of these roles or would like to serve in any of these capacities, please talk to Jenny Anderson.

EVENING WORSHIP This service has undergone some changes in 2014 with the introduction, in August, of Grow in the Dark Sunday school (refer to Discipleship report for details). As a result, attendances have risen in both adults and children (see attendance graph). Despite this, some key people involved in the worship service have had to withdraw. Special mention must be made of Larissa Dial’s

work over many years to organise and coordinate the roster. Personnel for this service has become difficult due to a variety of circumstances. The number of musicians, computer operators, sound specialists and stewards has dropped to critical levels. These services still aim to be interactive and provide opportunities for people to share and support each other. Some services take a discussion format while others follow similar themes to the morning service with a more interactive element. If you are interested in being actively involved in the evening services, please contact John Ruhle or Matt Smith.

SPECIAL SERVICES Special Services continued to be a highlight throughout the year. The Worship Team provides oversight and creative input to support these services. Themed preaching included Months of Preaching and Teaching on Acts and Psalms, plus months of Preaching and Teaching on Prophecy and Forgiveness. Along with Family Services, including Vision Sunday and Spring Sunday, these services all contributed to the ongoing worship life of our congregation in 2014.

MUSIC DIRECTOR ROLE Following involvement in the Passionate Service course, Michelle McDonald volunteered to develop a role of Music Director in our congregation. Hopes for this role include: To provide oversight of the musicians in the music ministry

team. To build on the existing strengths of our music team and help

realise the full potential of our music ministry team, especially with regard to spiritual gifts of leadership.

To grow our music ministry in both morning and evening worship.

To coordinate projects designed to grow our musicians’ skills or improve our use of music in worship with a common sense of purpose.

The Worship Team welcomes Michelle in this role for 2015 and looks forward to working with her to developing the role.

WORSHIP RETREAT Following our well-received worship retreat in 2013, a Listening Prayer Retreat was held on 14 June, led by Julie Price at the Brookfield Retreat Centre. All who attended found it very beneficial and we look forward to further such events in 2015.

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WORKSHOPS & MENTORING Teams of musicians for morning worship were re-examined for careful placement by Kath Ruhle, Wendy Rolls and Jenny Anderson at the beginning of the year. This aims to help those involved in Worship to develop their God-given gifts and talents. The mentoring provided via these teams was evident in the increased confidence and skill of the young musicians.

SOUND, LIGHTING & COMPUTER Three key roles continued to support important technology employed in our worship services. We are grateful to these people for their onging work: Colin Beavis - computer and related equipment Scott Orchard - lighting of the auditorium, including spotlights Lex Price – sound system

PREPARING THE CHURCH FOR WORSHIP (Cleaning Roster) Bau Earle prepared the following report: The 16 groups who are on this roster fulfil a very important role in the life of our Church. There are 16 groups which means it is three months between each turn. The groups consist of at least four people. Some are couples and some even bring their family to help. It is certainly a way of serving our Church. As we walk into Church of a Sunday and see all in place with flowers - either fresh or artificial - we can appreciate there is a group who lovingly Prepare our Church for Worship.

CRÈCHE This service has suffered through lack of coordination in 2014 and we gratefully acknowledge those who have continued to provide this service. Ideally, one (or if necessary, two) adults assist in the minding of babies and toddlers near the foyer area from the time the Grow Children go out until the last song. Anyone with a passion to help in this ministry, please contact Jenny Anderson.

MORNING TEA & SUPPER

Approximately 43 people have served morning tea after the 8.30am service, through a roster in which three or four people commit to one month per year. Helpers are always welcome. Supper after the Evening Service is more of an ad hoc affair, although there have been meals provided as part of Grow in the Dark.

OTHER ROSTERS An important but potentially unnoticed team spend time each week putting text on banners and setting up displays in the church foyer and elsewhere to stimulate and enhance understanding of the worship themes. Other valuable roles include Stewards and Communion Stewards. At the end of 2014, several vacancies in the Steward roster exist. This is a role which might become more intergenerational. Please consider if you or someone you know might enjoy this ministry.

IN SUMMARY The provision of worship services here at The Gap Uniting Church is dependent on the energy and generosity of the people involved. Many work diligently behind the scenes and our worship time is considerably richer for their efforts and the work of the Holy Spirit is evident. We continue to be blessed with the Ministry team headed by John Ruhle and Matt Smith who inspire and enthuse us to serve and worship God in life-changing ways. I would particularly like to thank the graciousness of every member of our congregation for their willingness to worship in a truly intergenerational way, valuing our diversity and strengths. John shared his vision some years ago likening us to a car journey with the family – everyone all in together from Grandpa to the kids, all taking turns to listen to their favourite music and conversation! Wendy Rolls Convener

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THE GAP UNITING CHURCH

AUDITED FINANCIAL REPORTS 2014 LUNCHEONS FOR THOSE WHO EAT ALONE

SENIOR FRIENDSHIP GROUP

DAY FELLOWSHIP

APRIL FAIR COMMITTEE

THE GAP UNITING CHURCH Profit & Loss Statement

THE GAP UNITING CHURCH Balance Sheet

GUCCE

GROW SUNDAY SCHOOL

EARLY CHILDHOOD MINISTRY PLAYGROUP

THE GAP UNITING CHURCH CEMETERY SPECIAL ACCOUNT

All financial statements contained in this report have been audited. Signed, audited copies are held with Congregational Records

administered by the Church Council Secretary.

Balance at 1st January 2014 $3,543.81 RECEIPTS FOR THE PERIOD Lunch Monies $3,750.00 Donations $124.90 Interest $3.72 Total $3,878.62 $3,878.62 $7,422.43 EXPENSES FOR THE PERIOD Food Costs $2,136.10 Purchase of Equipment etc $650.20 Donations:

Property Committee $500.00 Frontier Services $500.00

UnitingWorld $100.00 Payne Road Chaplain $200.00

Total $1,300.00 $1,300.00 Petty Cash $30.00 Total $4,116.30 $4,116.30 BALANCE at 31st December 2014 $3,306.13

Statement of Financial Assets at 31st December 2014 Cash at Bank $3,306.13 Petty Cash $15.60 Total Funds Available $3,321.73

LUNCHEONS FOR THOSE WHO EAT ALONE STATEMENT of FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 1st January 2014 to 31st December 2014

N. LOGAN Treasurer AUDITOR'S STATEMENT - I certify that in terms of the records produced to me and to the best of my knowledge and belief, the above Statement of Receipts and Payments and Statement of Financial Assets represents fairly the transactions for the period 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2014 and at the close of that year. B. Rollason, Honorary Auditor 25.1.15

SENIOR FRIENDSHIP GROUP Financial Statement for the 12 months ending 31st December 2014

RECEIPTS Monthly Meeting Contributions $1,046.30 Fund Raising – Bring and Buy Stalls $466.80 Brisbane City Council Grant $210.00 Petty Cash Rebanked $50.00 Bank Interest $0.13 $1,773.23 Expenses Monthly Meeting Morning Teas $330.00 Speakers and Entertainment Expenses $440.60 Greeting Cards, Postages and Gifts $41.70 Petty Cash Drawn $50.00 Morning Tea at Zegatos $297.50 Morning Tea for Friendship Group helpers $65.20 Donation to Mercy Ships Australia $100.00 The Gap Uniting Church for use of Hall $400.00 $1,725.00 EXCESS RECEIPTS OVER EXPENDITURE FOR 12 MONTHS

$48.23

BANK RECONCIALIATION Credit Balance at Bank 1st January 2014 $1,505.48 Add: Excess Receipts for 12 months $48.23 Credit Balance at 31st December 2014 $1,553.71 Credit Balance at Comm Bank of Australia Account No. 4174 10005625 at 31/12/2013

$1,553.71

B.C. FARMER, Treasurer AUDITORS STATEMENT - I certify that I have checked the records given to me and to the best of my knowledge and belief the above Financial Statements represent a fair and accurate account of the transactions of the Senior Friendship Group for the period 1st January 2014 to 31st December 2014. T. Edwinsmith - Honorary Auditor 3.2.15

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RECEIPTS EXPENDITURE Probus Catering Interest Subscriptions Miscellaneous Catering Frontier Svc Price of a Slice Frontier Svc Diaries Funeral/Don/Catering World Day of Prayer Total Receipts SUMMARY Opening Balance UCIS Receipts Total Less Expenditure Balance Cash Book Bank Reconciliation Balance UCIS Total Day Fellowship Funds UCIS operating acct. Petty Cash TOTAL

Alma Schofield Hon Treasurer

$4,867.00 $0.65

$80.00 $1,055.00

$75.00 $24.00

$2,900.00 $690.00

$9,691.65

$2,858.09 $9,691.65

$12,549.74

$8,897.93 $3,651.81

$3,651.81

NIL

$3,651.81

$25.34 $3,677.15

Donations Thanksgiving Service Books for Church Library U W Kimidan Island Uniting World Water Burke & Wills Patrol Frontier Svc Price of a Slice Frontier Svc Cape York Patrol Frontier Svc Prison Ministry Aboriginal Literacy Wesley Auxillary The Gap U. C. Frontier Svc Qld SU Chaplaincy - Local State Schools Sub Total Book Store Bibles Covers for Bibles U C Stamp for Bibles Stop Cheque Fee (Book Store) Petty Cash Probus Catering World Day of Prayer WDP Flowers and Expenses Tea Pot Misc Catering Expenses Discipleship Meals Frontier Svc Diaries Sub Total Total Expenditure

$200.00

$31.98 $200.00 $500.00 $300.00

$75.00 $200.00 $200.00 $300.00 $200.00 $500.00 $300.00 $500.00

$3,506.98

$1,256.78 $112.88

$38.00 $15.00 $70.00

$1,502.60 $720.00

$82.87 $77.00

$856.30 $635.52

$24.00 $5,390.95

$8,897.93

DAY FELLOWSHIP STATEMENT – RECEIPTS & EXPENDITURE 1st January - 31st December 2014

Opening balance as at 1.1.14 $339.25 Income: Fees $1,888.00 Interest $1.76 Donations & Craft Sales $87.50 $2,316.51 Less Expenses: Babysitting $1,327.00 Petty cash $100.00 $1,427.00 Balance as at 31.12.14 $889.51 Cash at Bank 31.12.14 $887.51 plus outstanding deposit $2.00 $889.51

Petty Cash balance $55.06

G.U.C.C.E. FINANCIAL REPORT 2014

J.O. Edwinsmith -

Treasurer

In my opinion the foregoing statement of operations for 2014 and the financial position at 31.12.14 fairly presents the relevant transactions and funds held. B.M. Rollason Hon. Auditor

Profit & Loss Statement as at 30 June 2014

FAIR INCOME Fair stalls $40,519.15 Fair Surplus/Shortfall $34.70 Fair Donations $200.00 Count house Float $921.00 Total Fair Income $41,674.85 Change Fair Change $3,748.00 Garage Sale Float $600.00 Total Change $4,348.00

Gross Profit $37,326.85

FAIR EXPENSES Fair Stalls $1,912.20 Fair Overheads Administration $62.55 Publicity $84.75 Equipment $661.25 Total Fair Overheads $808.55 Total Fair Expenses $2,720.75

Operating Profit $34,606.10 Other Income Hire of Equipment $1,110.00 Interest $0.66 Garden Stakes $70.00 Total Other Income $1,180.66 Other Expenses Bank Fees $155.34 Contribution to Parish $32,000.00 Total Other Expenses $32,155.34 Increase (reduction) in account balance $3,631.42

APRIL FAIR COMMITTEE

Balance Sheet 30 June 2014 Assets Bank Commonwealth Bank $5,401.44 Total Bank $5,401.44 Unpresented Cheques Net Assets $5,401.44

Equity Retained Earnings (2013) $1,770.02

2014 Change in account balance $3,631.42 Total Equity $5,401.44

I am of the opinion in terms of records maintained and produced to me and explanations offered in respect of the transactions shown in the forgoing Statement of Receipts and Expenditure for the period 1st January to 31st December 2014 that such represents fairly the results for the year and the financial position at the end of that year. B.M. Rollason Honorary Auditor 19/01/2014

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THE GAP UNITING CHURCH PROFIT AND LOSS STATEMENT 2014 Actual versus Annual Budget

INCOME Budget 2014 Actual 2014

Offerings Planned, Loose Giving & Direct Debits $225,000.00 $217,630.19 Spec focus on funding the Mission & Outreach Programs (Spring Sunday) $21,000.00 $27,894.00 Other Income April Fair $32,000.00 $32,000.00 Events - Fit-After-Fifty and other $2,000.00 $6,019.55 Donations From Church groups and activities $9,000.00 $900.00 Donations General $1,500.00 $3,220.05 Interest Interest Commonwealth Bank $500.00 $130.14 Interest MSS Accounts UCIS $3,095.00 Use of Property Wesley Mission Board $22,600.00 $21,999.96 Other Property Use $4,500.00 $2,593.18 Special financial challenge to achieve a balanced budget $10,000.00 Total Income $328,100.00 $315,482.07

EXPENSES Budget 2014 Actual 2014 Ministry Team Agent 1 - John Ruhle JR_ Stipend $52,800.00 $52,920.00 JR - Salary Related $450.00 $372.00 JR - Travel Allowance $12,040.00 $11,688.00 JR - Superannuation $7,500.00 $7,632.00 JR - Continuing Education $990.00 $960.00 JR - Minister Expenses $600.00 $450.00 JR - Work Cover $470.00 $444.00 Agent 2 - Matt Smith MS - Stipend $52,800.00 $52,920.00 MS - Salary Related $450.00 $372.00 MS - Travel Allowance $12,040.00 $11,688.00 MSRC - House Allowance $15,270.00 $15,132.00 MS - Superannuation $4,884.00 $4,962.00 MS - Continuing Education $990.00 $960.00 MS - Minister Expenses $600.00 $ 405.45 MS - Work Cover $470.00 $444.00

EXPENSES contd Budget 2014 Actual 2014

Property Operational Expenses General Rates $1,570.00 $1,603.25 General Rates Offset WMB ($480.98) Sewerage Rates $2,640.00 $1,999.92 Sewerage offset WMB ($999.96) Water Rates $1,800.00 $2,273.47 Water rates offset WMB ($682.04) Electricity $7,388.00 $11,047.98 Electricity offsets general ($900.00) ($500.00) Electricity offsets WMB ($5,670.28) Insurance $6,500.00 $6,772.89 Insurance Claim Excess $500.00 Fire Service Maintenance $800.00 $373.50 Repairs and Maintenance - Property and Equipment $6,400.00 $3,646.63 Grounds Maintenance $1,800.00 $2,696.77 Manse Maintenance $650.00 $205.64 Cleaner - Salary $6,000.00 $6,000.00 Cleaner - Salary Related Exp $510.00 $297.50 Cleaning Offsets ($1,700.00) ($550.00) Cleaning Consumables $1,325.00 $1,188.37 Cleaning -Carpet $700.00 $790.91 Pest Control $500.00 $100.00

Equipment, Fixtures & Fittings- Small Ticket items (<$1000) $500.00 $934.75 IT and Equipment donation offsets - Replacement of Capital Assets $4,000.00 $6,344.20 Office Salaries $40,800.00 $38,977.80 Salary Related Expenses - Office inc super $3,934.00 $4,001.56 General Church Office Expenses $3,400.00 $3,173.00 General Office Expenses offset $ Bank Fees $ $171.53 Telephone 3300 2712 $270.00 $341.36 Telephone 3300 6740 $480.00 $454.19 Telephone 3300 6788 $800.00 $805.84 JR - Mobile Phone - MS - Mobile Phone $480.00 $410.89 Internet $ 900.00 $418.64 Licences Copyright $1,000.00 $1,356.96 Software Licences $2,700.00 $2,580.30 National Church Surveys $- Kids Hope $700.00 $706.66

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THE GAP UNITING CHURCH BALANCE SHEET As at December 2014

ASSETS

Current Assets Undeposited Funds $253.50 MDF Fund - Camp Constable $261,111.38 Bank - Commonwealth General $26,841.69 MSS Benefit Account (1415) $2,261.91 Petty Cash Advance $200.00 Wesley Mission Brisbane Debtor $9,073.96 Total Current Assets $299,742.44 Non-current Assets

Buildings $1,079,762.94 $1,079,762.94

Total Assets $1,379,505.38

LIABILITIES

Current Liabilities Accrued Expenses $251.14 Behind The Scenes $6,978.62 Camp Constable Creditor $2,043.61 GROW $500.00 Chaplaincy - The Gap $4,143.90 Uniting World $455.00 Butterfly Program - The Gap SS $88.37 Bridge The Gap $500.00 Playgroup and Creche $45.21 Christmas Bowl $878.00 Ministry Team Training $1,125.09 Pastoral Care Program $261.83 Total Current Liabilities $17,270.77 Fit-After-Fifty $1,543.37 Youth/Kids Groups $145.05 GST Liabilities GST Collected $89.77 GST Paid ($1,284.34) GST Clearing Account ($40.85) Total GST Liabilities ($1,235.42) First Steps in Music Daily Fee $342.27 Total Liabilities $18,066.04

Net Assets $1,361,439.34

EQUITY Asset Replacement Reserve $2,536.63

MDF Reserve - Camp Constable $261,111.38

Net Worth $1,097,670.62

Current Earnings $120.71

Total Equity $1,361,439.34

EXPENSES contd Budget 2014 Actual 2014

Mission and Outreach Expenses M&S Synod Contribution $45,800.00 $44,291.04 Local Mission and Outreach $8,000.00 $3,090.75 Chaplain - local schools $5,000.00 $5,000.00 Chaplain - 10% April Fair $3,100.00 $3,200.00 RE Material $200.00 Worship and Discipleship Expenses Worship Expenses $3,000.00 $2,509.55 Christian Education Material $300.00 $52.31 Catering $200.00 $250.43 Library $250.00 Finance Expenses Interest on L70 Loan Account Interest and MSS Offset Leadership Training Discipleship Classes $240.00 $620.49 Registrations Training and Conferences $1,500.00 $1,347.28 General Expenses Stewardship $900.00 $756.50 Advertising and Promotion $800.00 $380.00 Annual Reports $200.00 Church Directories $60.00 Photocopying $1,500.00 $1,789.31 Photocopying offsets ($250.00) ($67.00) Total Expenses $329,601.00 $315,361.36

NET RESULT ($1,501.00) $120.71

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EARLY CHILDHOOD MINISTRY THE GAP UNITING CHURCH PLAYGROUP Statement of Income and Expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2014

INCOME $

Attendance Fees ($3) 3,072.45

Donations Received 0.00

Total Income 3,072.45

EXPENSE

Bank Charges 120.00

Donations Made 1,000.00

Equipment Purchases 465.10

Qld Playgroup Assn Conts 40.00

Repairs & Maintenance 75.68

Social Functions 241.78

Supplies 1,364.42

Total Expense 3,306.98 NET INCOME (234.53) Balance Sheet at December 31, 2014 ASSETS

Current Assets

Current/Savings

Commonwealth Bank 800.35

Cash Float 60.00

Total Current/Savings 860.35

TOTAL ASSETS 860.35

LIABILITIES -

NET ASSETS 860.35 EQUITY

Retained Earnings 1,094.88 Net Income (234.53)

TOTAL EQUITY 860.35

GROW SUNDAY SCHOOL - Financial Report for 2014 Opening balance as at 1.1.13 $2,752.75 Income: Weekly donations $322.90 Fund raising: Market Lent Event $200.00 Spice Food Sales $141.90 Spring Sunday Grow Garden Sales $200.00 Interest on account $17.34 $3,634.89 $3,634.89 Less: Scripture Union Curriculum $50.00 UnitingWorld Lent Event $200.00 Bikes & Helmets for Refugee $2,563.94 $2,813.94 $820.95 Cash at bank as at 31.12.14 $820.95 T. Edwinsmith J. Boyd Hon. Treasurer for Grow Hon. Auditor

THE GAP U.C. CEMETERY SPECIAL ACCOUNT STATEMENT OF INCOME & EXPENSES - YEAR ENDED 30/11/2014

A. Wallis Honorary Treasurer/Registrar

Audited and found satisfactory B.M. Rollason Honorary Auditor 13/12/2014

INCOME EXPENDITURE

1st Dec 2013 Balance at bank

$3951.72

Columbarium $7,042.00 Columbarium $248.33

Cemetery $186.00 Cemetery $0.00

Interest $41.90

Balance $10,973.29

Total $11221.62 $11,221.62

Reconciliation

30/11/2014 Balance as per Cash Book

$10,973.29

30/11/2014 Balance per CBA 06 4174 10335675 Statement No. 4

$10,973.29

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INDEX MINISTRY TEAM REPORT ................................................................. 2

COUNCIL CHAIRPERSON REPORT ................................................... 4

KIDS HOPE REPORT ........................................................................... 5

CARE TEAM REPORT ......................................................................... 6

BUSH CAMP .................................................................................. 8

CIRCLES OF CARE ......................................................................... 7

LADIES’ DAY FELLOWSHIP .......................................................... 7

LADIES’ EVENING FELLOWSHIP.................................................. 6

MEMBERSHIP ROLLS ................................................................... 6

THE NOUWEN NETWORK THE GAP UC ...................................... 8

PASTORAL CARE GROUP ............................................................. 8

WALKING GROUP .......................................................................... 7

DISCIPLESHIP TEAM REPORT .......................................................... 9

BIBLE STUDIES .............................................................................. 9

CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION ........................................... 9

DAY CAMP ...................................................................................... 9

GROW SUNDAY SCHOOL ............................................................ 10

KIDS CLUB .................................................................................... 10

SEPTEMBER CAMP ....................................................................... 9

YOUTH GROUP ............................................................................ 10

FINANCE & ADMIN TEAM REPORT ................................................ 11

APRIL FAIR / GARAGE SALE ...................................................... 11

CHURCH FINANCIALS................................................................. 11

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION ......................................................... 11

PROPERTY COMMITTEE ............................................................ 11

THE CEMETERY TRUST .............................................................. 12

THE LONG TERM DAY CARE CENTRE ...................................... 11

OUTREACH TEAM REPORT ............................................................. 12

BRIDGE THE GAP - NORTH INDIA ............................................. 12

FIRST STEPS IN MUSIC .............................................................. 13

FIT AFTER FIFTY ......................................................................... 13

GUCCE .......................................................................................... 13

LUNCHEONS FOR THOSE WHO EAT ALONE. ........................... 14

MENS GROUP .............................................................................. 14

PLAYGROUP................................................................................. 14

RATION SHED TRIP ..................................................................... 13

SENIOR FRIENDSHIP GROUP .................................................... 14

WORSHIP TEAM REPORT ................................................................ 15

CRECHE ........................................................................................ 16

EVENING WORSHIP .................................................................... 15

MORNING WORSHIP ................................................................... 15

MUSIC DIRECTOR ROLE ............................................................. 15

PREPARING THE CHURCH FOR WORSHIP .............................. 16

MORNING TEA & SUPPER & OTHER ROSTERS ....................... 16

SOUND, LIGHT & COMPUTER .................................................... 16

SPECIAL SERVICES ..................................................................... 15

WORSHIP RETREAT .................................................................... 15

WORKSHOPS & MENTORING .................................................... 15

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS .................................................................... 17

APRIL FAIR COMMITTEE ............................................................ 18

DAY FELLOWSHIP ....................................................................... 18

EARLY CHILDHOOD MINISTRY PLAYGROUP ........................... 21

GROW SUNDAY SCHOOL ............................................................ 21

GUCCE .......................................................................................... 18

LUNCHEONS FOR THOSE WHO EAT ALONE ............................ 17

SENIOR FRIENDSHIP GROUP .................................................... 17

THE GAP UNITING CHURCH Balance Sheet ............................ 20

THE GAP UNITING CHURCH CEMETERY SPECIAL ACCOUNT ..................................................................... 21

THE GAP UNITING CHURCH Profit & Loss Statement ............ 19

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The Gap Uniting Church

1050 Waterworks Road, The Gap QLD 4061

07 3300 2712 www.thegapuca.org.au