Ladies Dining Out
The ladies of the parish and their female friends meet over dinner on the first Monday of each month at Wyong Golf Club. From 5.30pm the ladies begin to gather in the dining room around a pre-booked table where greetings are shared and visitors introduced to others. The numbers vary according to other commitments but we usually manage up to twelve and this number is perfect for all to be included in the various conversations. A pre-dinner drink is the norm as the “specials” boards are perused and the menu studied. As the minutes tick away, conversation, eating and relaxing in good company continues unabated. There are absolutely no rules or eligibility requirements attached to this group and many of the ladies have commented that the gatherings have allowed them to really get to know each other in a way which is sometimes difficult in a more formal or structured group. On special occasions like Christmas, the menfolk are invited into this hallowed group to share what has become a most rewarding experience.
Ladies Living Alone
This group was formed for ladies who lived by themselves and aims to provide Christian fellowship in private homes over a light lunch. The group meets 3 or 4 times a year and in its infancy attracted about 20 starters. Numbers have dwindled over the years for various reasons and recently as few as 4 have attended. The group historically meets over Sunday lunch and family commitments often preclude attendance. This was a most important outreach from the church and it is hoped that it will once again become a place where the ladies can meet and enjoy the company of others
Ladies High Tea and DVD
This is a group of between 15 and 20 ladies from within the parish who meet 3 times a year at the C’s home at Chittaway Bay. Originally the idea was to show some of the DVDs from either CMS Summer School or The Katoomba Women’s Convention for the benefit of those who had been unable to attend the originals. Since that time it had branched out into other material available on DVD by speakers of a particularly high standard. Once the DVD has been shown, time is allowed for discussion and sharing of thoughts and this is followed by a wonderful high tea provided by Lyn C. for the enjoyment of all. These events are held on a Saturday afternoon and require no input of parish funds or facilities. The aim of the group has always been to provide spiritual nourishment and inspiration through bible based talks delivered in a devout but entertaining environment and this it accomplishes admirably.
Mother’s Union
St James Mother’s Union is run under the auspices of the Newcastle Diocese and has been running in the Parish for many years. There are currently about 11 members who meet in the parish hall on a monthly basis. Occasionally meetings are held in member’s homes when numbers permit and often when the weather is cooler. The group aims to be a prayer and outreach arm of the church with particular emphasis being placed on the Christian upbringing of children and this aim is certainly achieved. The group provides “baby bundles” (a wrapped collection of baby needs) to underprivileged mothers of babies born at the Wyong Hospital and also knits baby bootees which are given to the mothers of all babies born at the hospital. The Mother’s Union in this parish organizes a yearly cruise on one of the rivers or lakes and all parishioners are invited to attend and join in fellowship with members. A Christmas Party is held each December when partners join in. Mother’s Union uses all the facilities provided by the Parish as and when they are required but otherwise are self supporting.
Other Women’s Events
The women of the parish get together once or twice a term at various locations, usually outside our own Church buildings and for various reasons. Historically, between 10 and 20 ladies are able to attend these events but, of course, it is not always the same group. The aims of the group vary depending on the event being attended but, basically it aims to provide Biblical teaching and to provide an opportunity for the women from both congregations at St James to meet together and to share Christian fellowship. Some events are more focused on teaching whilst others are centred on fellowship but the aims of the group are met on both levels. Events include the Kincumber Parish Women’s Conference held annually, the Women of Truth Conference held annually in Newcastle, a garden party at The Bradford’s home and the Illawarra Knitters Parade. Most of these events are self funded and occasionally even make a profit which is passed on to the parish by way of donation. All events are open to the public or friends from other denominations and the nature of the event often determines how many “outsiders” are involved – not so many for conferences but quite a number for fashion parades!