Cleve hosts German-themed garden party
Following a combined parish service with Holy Communion at St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Cleve on Reformation Sunday October 29th, Lutherans from Cleve, Cowell and Lock, along with Anglican friends, moved to the Cleve Manse back yard for a German themed Garden Party that was held in glorious weather.
The yard had been set up with tables that were decorated with beer steins used as vases for table flowers, and both the Australian and German flags were hung, adding a sense of Lutheran history to the day.
Authentic German food was enjoyed, along with gluhwein for those who wished to partake. Whilst the courses were served, quizzes were run and bocce and Finska were available for people to play.
Apart from it being Reformation, the lunch was held to raise funds for the manse renovations that have recently been finished and for support for Australian Lutheran World Service, who care for those in the world who are in greatest danger of being forgotten. Julie Magnay gave a short talk on the work of ALWS and displayed the meagre rations of flour, rice, sugar, oil and dates that are provided for a family to survive on in Somalia.
The manse was open for inspection for people to see how much work had been done upgrading the kitchen and bathroom areas.
While we enjoyed a great day of feasting and fun there are many in the world that live in extreme want. Martin Luther once said, ‘God doesn’t need our good works, but our neighbour does.’ – both the Manse fund and ALWS will benefit from the day.
Photos: Attendees enjoy the sunshine; Anne Siviour (Parish Chair), Elaine Schumann, Julie Magnay.
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