Reflections on a packed four hours ...

Citipointe Church, Access Street Vans and Greenmeadows Lodge ... three encouraging experiences in four hours - but each so different! Joey Bonifaco, guest speaker from the Philippines at Citipointe pushed my buttons ... he has been part of growing a large Church with a priority of nurturing strong relationships, forgiveness and being available to make a difference in the community'.
Access Street Vans operate from a basement at Aminya Street Shops, visiting hostels and street locations with volunteer teams during the week, to encourage and bring hope. On Sunday vans visit hostels and boarding houses to bring up to 40 guests for a short service, encouragement and a great lunch prepared by volunteers.
It was sad, but happy as we said farewell to a regular over a few years, heading to Cairns, Darwin, Adelaide and then heading back to Brisbane. Bless you mate. I hope you find what you are looking for and stay safe.
It took a long time for Reg to pray and do a send off, Street Access style. Interruptions, questions and explanations along the way were amusing. Interaction is a key, but sometimes unpredictable ingredient.

Russell and Betty, Reg and Lyn ... and your leaders and helpers... you do a fantastic job, your heart for those hurt by experiences in life is inspiring ... Next stop, Greenmeadows Lodge ... amazing to see the growth each week in relationships and confidence of a beautiful group of people. They love Jerry's story songs and interacting during Reg's talks - calling out requesting "chippies please", or a request to hear John Denver's Calyspo. (We were caught short of treats today, I did not have much cash and could not get even one extra banana from a fruit market on Creek Road. I recall the first owner, a beautiful Greek man who, despite being an astute businessman was so generous when presented with a need ...) A special treat for one resident, expert on 60's music, as Greg Newman 4BH, and regular visitor had a John Dever CD. Trying to tell some JD anecdotes, (being on air to announce his death, doing an introduction at his Brisbane concert) was hard going but hillarious, comments, attempts to sing the song and asking if he could hear Calypso please!! I enjoyed items from awesome friend, Phil, who somehow come up with a guitar again. Despite what could appear a little chaotic at time, for me, has a wonderful sense of harmony and encouragement. Unique individuals and characters, a privilige to be part of the action. I feel like royalty when I drive past and some of the gang are on Creek Road and call out. Plan for Park Angels continues to brew in my brain. Sad news that one friend is recovering in hospital, it does not seem fair sometimes the hurdles that some have to encounter, but they can bounce back stronger.