St Augustine’s Anglican Church Hamilton

Pastoral Ministry

‘Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.’ NIV Ephesians 3:20

Pastoral Ministry

At St. Augustine’s Anglican Church we welcome all people from all walks of life and circumstances. We would love to have you here. You may find out more about our Pastoral Ministry here, or contact us for more information.

Our Ministries

Baptisms & Confirmations

Baptism represents a recognition that there is more to life than the physical and material and introduces an infant to the possibilities that lie beyond this world and to a relationship with the spiritual – specifically with the Trinitarian expression of the divine.

Baptism is the means by which a person affirms their faith in Jesus Christ and becomes a member of the church.

Children are unable to make such commitments, so when a child is baptised, Godparents make this commitment on behalf of the child.

As most people are baptised as infants, we offer an opportunity for people to make the baptism promises for themselves. We do this through Confirmation. At present we try to offer this opportunity annually to coincide with the Bishop’s visit. Preparation for Confirmation takes the form of two three-hour classes on a Saturday or a Sunday. Please speak with Rev'd Marian Free if you would like to be confirmed.

Weddings

A Christian marriage reflects the relationship between Christ and the Church. When a couple marry in the Church they ask for and receive God’s blessing on their union.

St Augustine’s and the green lawns is a beautiful place for a wedding.

The wedding pack, which contains all that you need to know about weddings at St Augustine’s, is available through the Office or online.

Funerals

A Christian funeral celebrates our belief in eternal life. Jesus’ resurrection provides the assurance of our own resurrection. In this sense death is not the end but a new beginning. For this reason we use the funeral service set down in the prayer book.

Sadly, you may need to contact us regarding a funeral. In the first instance you would contact the Rev'd Marian Free to arrange a time. (Monday is the Marian‘s day off). If that time suits, the Funeral Directors, Marian will meet with you to discuss details of the service and any specific requests. An organist can be arranged to play before and after the service and to accompany hymns. A copy of the funeral service is available from the office. Should you wish to plan your own funeral, please ask the Office for a copy of ‘Planning your Funeral’ at St Augustine’s or download online.

Healing

Jesus and the disciples were known for their healing ministry. We continue this ministry in the church through the laying on of hands and the use of holy oil.

During this monthly service Rev'd Marian Free will offer anointing with holy oil and will say the words, “I anoint you in the name of God who created you, Jesus who redeemed you and the Holy Spirit who enlivens you. In the name of God I ask for healing.”

The anointing oil has been blessed by the Archbishop of Brisbane. The service is held during the 3^rd Wednesday of the month Eucharist service.

‘Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.’ See James 5:13-15

Counselling & Visiting

Marian is available to visit those who are unable to attend church and is very happy to provide communion in homes, hospitals and for those who are in residential care. Clergy are not trained counsellors, but Marian is happy to speak with anyone who is troubled by something personal or theological. If you would like a visit, or would like to speak with Marian, please contact her directly.

Bible Study

Topics for the study groups are chosen by the groups themselves. In the past we have worked our way through the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Revelation. We have studied the life of St Claire of Assisi and looked at the difficult issue of human trafficking. Currently, the daytime group are studying the Gospel of Matthew and the evening group are tackling the Trinity.

Bible study is a cornerstone of discipleship and personal growth – not just in knowledge, but in developing discernment between right and wrong, and spiritual development. The Bible is the Word of our Lord, inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Personal Development

We encourage everyone to develop their faith in whatever way suits them – personal prayer and bible study or through the various activities offered by the church.

There are several avenues available for your journey within the church. Please talk to the Rev'd Marian Free. This may include confirmation, liturgy assistance, becoming a student, church works, volunteer administrative support and practical works.

Investigating Christianity

It is our intention to present the Truth of the Gospel and the life of the new covenant God has made with all men.

Please see our main website for more details in our Posts.

Keep in Touch

The best way to see changes to times, and for current notices, please see our weekly Pew Bulletin and the Online Notices.