What would you say is the opposite of belonging? In English class we were taught isolation or alienation were the opposite of belonging. In recent times researcher Brenè Brown found that the opposite of belonging was not isolation, but 'fitting in'. Masking one’s true self to blend in with a group, was found to be lonelier than actually being alone. Maybe you’ve felt that at some time in your life.
Peter was a loud mouth. He spoke before he thought, and the only time he took his foot out of his mouth was to replace it with the other one. Then he met Jesus, and with the disciples he found a community and belonging. He was still brash and rash, and would sometimes talk trash. Peter wanted to be his best self, and in community he found a way to harness his boldness and use it for good (Matthew 16:21-23, Acts 2:14-47). Knowing Jesus and belonging to community can transform lives.
At Avondale School, belonging is one of our values. We want people to find a place where they can be accepted and nurtured as they grow into their best selves. Gateway Church shares that vision.
This has been Pr Steve and my first year at Gateway. We have found a loving and kind community who strive to fulfill our mission statement to love well and create a place of belonging.
Gateway meets on campus every Saturday morning and everyone is welcome. Café serves free hot drinks from 9.45am - 10.30am in the MPC. Sabbath Schools (think Bible discussion groups for adults; value-based stories, songs, crafts, and games for kids) run from 10.00am - 10.45am. The main service in the Worship Centre begins at 11.00am. During Summer and Winter holidays, Gateway does Foyer Church in the MPC foyer from 10.00am, where there are snacks and a fun small group vibe (it’s one of my favourite things about Gateway).
Our Campus Church is a place where you can meet new people and maybe even see some people you already know like school families, chaplains and teachers. This coming Monday November 9 Gateway is running the nutritious lunch box seminar. We also coordinate Soccer Stars, provide transport for Youth Rallies and organise socials, like the Trivia Night coming up at the end of November.
If you’re looking for a place to belong, why not give Gateway Church a go?
Pr Susan Magaitis
Gateway Church
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