The prophet Isaiah speaks of a world where wild animals live in harmony. His image of utopia is a pointer to the difference that the promised one will make.

If this promised one comes to us at Christmas, it is time to consider those places of hope and promise and the difference that God’s work of Christmas makes.

Sermon 9th December, 2007 (pdf)
St. David’s Uniting Church, Oakleigh
Rev. Arnie Wierenga

Last Sunday churches around the globe began the season of Advent. While most people are focussed on the coming of Christmas (buying gifts, carols in the shops, decorations, community Christmas carols), there is often confusion about what Advent is really about.

For a reflection on what Advent means to the Christian church, read more>>

Isaiah shares words of hope for a peaceful future where swords will be beaten into ploughshares. We explore what it means to be people who “walk in the light of the Lord”, and our own call to peace in the name of Christ.

Sermon 2nd December, 2007 (pdf)

St. David’s Uniting Church, Oakleigh
Rev. Arnie Wierenga

It is the day after our federal election and the church is celebrating Christ the King Sunday. As Australia anticipates what new leadership will bring to the country, we reflect on the kind of kingship that Christ offers. Christ the King invites us into a new era of hope with vision for a better future, but the changes begin with our response to Christ.

Sermon Sunday November 25th, 2007 (pdf)

St. David’s Uniting Church, Oakleigh
Rev. Arnie Wierenga

The reading this week from Isaiah has God promising a new heaven and a new earth to those who have just returned from exile. While the promise may have brought joy and hope, our world has not yet fulfilled such a grand vision. We explore the nature of God’s promises and what it means to be weeks away from marking the birth of Christ.

Sermon 18th November, 2007 (pdf)
St. David’s Oakleigh
Rev. Arnie Wierenga

Melbourne’s newest church opens today in the Docklands area. The James Squire Brewhouse’s upper room will be home to the Docklands Church. Worship includes bible reflections, prayer, music and monthly communion.

For more information visit the Docklands Church website.

There are many cases where the persistence of the powerless have dramatically altered unjust power systems. The gospel story of the persistent woman calls us to lobby with a heart for God’s justice.

Sermon 21st October, 2007 (pdf)
St. David’s Uniting Church, Oakleigh
Rev. Arnie Wierenga

Luke’s gospel has two provocative stories about outsiders who live out Jesus’ call to discipleship better than the religious establishment. It is a helpful reminder about receiving the blessings of God and living out our own call.

Sermon 14th October, 2007
Rev. Arnie Wierenga
St. David’s UCA, Oakleigh, VIC

St. Francis of Assissi has given a lasting legacy in many ways. For all those who are animal lovers, a blessing of the animals reminds us of their importance to humanity, and especially the delight of having a pet.

The Lara Uniting Church has continued the tradition of St. Francis with a special service of blessing.

Read more>>

It might be argued that Elvis was destined to be a troubled soul. His experience of life on this planet gives us cause to reflect about how we can find those things that truly bring us life.

Sermon 7th October, 2007  (pdf)
St. David’s Oakleigh
Rev Arnie Wierenga