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Nikki Nicols got involved with her local church because she didn’t want it to close.
By Nikki Nicols
MY INVOLVEMENT with the Wonthaggi Uniting Church began with my living close and watching the many funerals the church congregation hosted. Then it was watching the children running around the lawns and building cubby houses.
Over time, however, the funerals ceased and the church became quiet. I said to my neighbours that I need to get involved in the church as I didn't wish to see it disappear. It had so much meaning to people in the town and its many members have given so much over many years.
Since becoming a congregation member I have valued the sense of peace when I enter the doors. It allows me to reflect on who I am and how I have conducted myself for that week.
I value the gentle protection of the church walls and the safety it provides. I love singing together some of the beautiful hymns and songs with lyrics that always seem pertinent for that moment. I enjoy the safety of the people who gather as we are all experiencing the difficulties this world currently presents.
We do not practise a lot of formal liturgies, except communion once a month, but our talks are all encompassing and given by members of the church community.
We have not had a full-time minister in the 18 months I have been there but that was what I fell in love with.
I value the gentle protection of the church walls and the safety it provides. I love singing together some of the beautiful hymns and songs with lyrics that always seem pertinent for that moment. I enjoy the safety of the people who gather as we are all experiencing the difficulties this world currently presents.
We do not practise a lot of formal liturgies, except communion once a month, but our talks are all encompassing and given by members of the church community.
We have not had a full-time minister in the 18 months I have been there but that was what I fell in love with.
“We had so little but there was a fellowship that pulled us together and led us to heartfelt talks, with the children participating. That gave us the cup half full.”
The gatherings with our Inverloch brothers and sisters once a month with cakes and the rituals of doing dishes together creates a feeling of community and belonging.
I have had different experiences in my seeking the meaning of life but walking through the doors of our church on the hill each Sunday reminds me of a higher power of guidance, love and fellowship.
On the 17th May we have a new minister joining us for three years. We are looking forward to having his leadership.
We have hosted concerts, with artists coming from near and far. The guests enjoy afternoon tea after 'Saturday afternoon Concerts '. Details of what's coming up are on the Inverloch church Facebook page.
I have had different experiences in my seeking the meaning of life but walking through the doors of our church on the hill each Sunday reminds me of a higher power of guidance, love and fellowship.
On the 17th May we have a new minister joining us for three years. We are looking forward to having his leadership.
We have hosted concerts, with artists coming from near and far. The guests enjoy afternoon tea after 'Saturday afternoon Concerts '. Details of what's coming up are on the Inverloch church Facebook page.
Wonthaggi Uniting Church is hosting concerts and other events to reach out to their community.
We also have choir practice with Dani Paulson on Thursday nights and Tracey Millers 'Light of Day' choir on Wednesday mornings.
We do sausage sizzles to help fund our continuing existence and coming soon is a Postie clothing and fashion parade.
With all the work each congregation member provides, it allows us to pause and reflect on the value of belonging to a spiritual community with values and love.
We do sausage sizzles to help fund our continuing existence and coming soon is a Postie clothing and fashion parade.
With all the work each congregation member provides, it allows us to pause and reflect on the value of belonging to a spiritual community with values and love.
15 Comments
Congratulations Nikki on being such an integral part of your church and all the good it does for the community. I have enjoyed the concerts and generous food and fellowship shared and organized by you at your charming Uniting Church.
Thank you Ursula. You also do so much for the community and we so appreciate all you do 🙏💕
Nikki's Saturday Afternoon Concerts are warmly welcomed. People gather for a program of music, afternoon tea and lots of talking, and more music. It is good for musicians, music lovers, and community...win, win, win...
Thank you Alison for all your help with Kane's concerts. We all so enjoyed them and I often get positive feedback.
It is great to have this venue for the concerts, and I am loving having our choir take place here as well. Great to know you, Nikki!
Thank you Dani, we enjoy your choir and very glad you are part of our community.
You are a true blessing Nikki. Your efforts and dedication have highlighted a rekindling of belonging in community. The church has such a warm and welcoming atmosphere and we thoroughly enjoyed listening and playing music there.
Thank you Ellen. We loved having you and ditto to all you and David do for the community. We look forward to the 3 days in July at the council hall🎶💃🕺
Nikki, you make everything you do inclusive, warm, delightful and kinda exciting. I love the work you do for community- and your ever helpful energy. Deb x
Thank you Deb and I have enjoyed volunteering with your many community projects. You bring joy to all you do 🙏x
Thanks Nikki you have breathed new life into our congregation. Margaret xxx
Margaret you are the reason I love what I do. Bless you Margaret 🙏🥰
Love you xxxSuze
Thank you Suze. We and I love having you amongst our congregation. You are so welcome 🤗🥰.x
Love the commitment that Nikki is doing.