At a parish service in St John's, Bears Lagoon, recently, Bishop Andrew Curnow, was the celebrant and preacher. This was a special service of dedication in many respects.  Representatives of the congregations of Boort, Pyramid Hill, Calivil, as well as St John's link congregation of St Cuthbert's, Grovedale, together with family, friends, and past parishioners now living outside the parish, gathered for special celebrations.
 
The large congregation, including many children, came to bear witness to the Confirmation of Michele Chappel (sponsored by Carmel White), and Nakeya Mountjoy (sponsored by Paula Maxted).
 
 Bishop Andrew, in his address, drew upon the image of a stone in the opening prayer. Jesus Christ was the stone rejected by the builders; at the same time we are encouraged to become living stones – building up the kingdom of God. Bishop illustrated the point with a heavy piece of quartz - minus any gold, as a symbol of confirmation being a rite of passage in our lives.

Next, the candidates were invited to come forward to be confirmed in their faith. Both were serious and firm in their dedication, and were very moved by the ceremony.  Each received a Confirmation Certificate and a confirmation stole to commemorate the occasion.  They were congratulated especially by Maureen and Angus Mill, from St Cuthbert's, with small gifts from that parish.
 
 A second, and un-announced dedication, was for Keith and Bev Richards who only recently retired from the land, to live in Bendigo, and who wished to be blessed and acknowledged by friends and parishioners of their former congregation. Their wish was eagerly granted as many in the church stood at the altar with the couple to join with Bishop Andrew and Rev’d Heather in a heartfelt demonstration of friendship and goodwill.
 
The third dedication of the day was due to the sad closure of St Mark's, Calivil. A simple and beautiful stained glass window, dedicated to the settlers and people of Calivil had been rescued and brought to St John's to symbolise the unity of the two parishes. A plaque was attached to mark the occasion...

This window, originally behind the altar at St Mark's Calivil was moved to St John's Bears Lagoon after the closure of St Mark's.
 
 At the conclusion of the service, congregational members gathered for a generous outdoor lunch and animated conversation.
 
 submitted by David Murray