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March/April 2011 Year 9 No. 2 |
Newsletter
of the Amateur Radio Christian Fellowship (N.Z.) |
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We
greet all members and friends of the Amateur Radio Christian Fellowship,
mindful of two major events since last we wrote. JAMES ZL3IJ, a loved member of
ARCF, passed away on 27 February. But five days prior to James’ passing,
Christchurch was struck by an earthquake with far-reaching consequences. In relation to this, our only comment is one
made by an evangelist (David Asscherick) of the Seventh Day Adventist Church
visiting the city at the time. “My hope and my prayer for this lovely city,
and [for] this amazing country is that as they pick up the pieces, they will
let Jesus Christ pick up the pieces of their broken hearts and lives … May the
City’s Namesake become the City’s Saviour!”
Also of major consequence, but incomparable to our own disaster, was
the Japanese ‘quake/tsunami on 11 March. Our hearts go out to all who suffer
grief and loss.
JAMES ZL3IJ (SK) - A
TRIBUTE
We were privileged to be able to attend James’
service held in the Linwood Avenue Union
Church on Friday 4th March.
James’ wife Margaret, the Celebrant, conducted a beautiful, dignified
service, so worthy of James as we knew him.
Many came forward to offer tributes which together provided a mosaic of
his life, some of which we share here.
James was a quiet, reserved man, but with
a strong and determined spirit in those things he considered important. He was
born and brought up in South New Brighton, remaining there for all his life.
His parents had been Scottish immigrants, settling in Estuary Road, where James
still lived prior to his passing. Academic achievements included being Dux at
both Primary and Secondary school levels.
He had a life-long involvement in the local tennis club, a shorter
involvement in the local Historical Society, and was a member of a Temperance
Lodge. James taught in Sunday School
for many years from an early age, having a genuine love of children and young
people. He spent 46 years with the Christchurch City Council, working through
administrative ranks to positions of considerable responsibility. He also
studied psychology at university to Stage 3.
As his tribute, James’ son Andrew read
the parable of the Prodigal Son, likening this story to his own life, and the
acceptance and love always offered by his Father. In a short message which
James had taped before his passing, he warned of the nearness of the end of
this world, and how all those present and listening should ensure they had a
Christian faith. The final verse sung was:
“And if our fellowship below, in Jesus
be so sweet, What heights of rapture shall we know, when round His throne we
meet”. The family, in their response card, noted: “Thank you so much for your
letters. James did so love the Christian Fellowship, especially Saturday
nights.” (Margaret and Andrew).
We
give thanks for James’ life and input into our lives. We do miss him.
(Photo: James, as we knew him. Taken on occasion of
our meeting with Christchurch members at Pacific Haven in May, 2009).
≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈≈
NEWS OF MEMBERS
ADAM ZL1VI and TAMI ZL2SXY (Omakau) – Life is busy
– Adam with vineyard work, rabbit shooting, bird scaring; and Tami with dairy farm work, occasional
B&B, home schooling, caring for Grandson Alex, and family staying. They
also attend and support the Salvation Army in Alexandra. May they be given
strength for all they are doing. It’s always so good to hear them.
ALAN ZL2TAG (Gore) – Alan and
Averil now have greater responsibility at Calvin Presbyterian since departure
of Senior Pastor to undertake Moderator role fulltime. A new Grandson (Micah)
was born to Kristina on 6th February in Auckland. Much news, but
most recent is that Alan departed Auckland Sunday 27 March for 7 days in
Thailand, speaking at meetings and checking on some church FM radio stations.
Daughter Kristina and two children would accompany Alan to Bangkok before
proceeding to Africa to be reunited with husband John. On Alan’s return, he will
be proceeding straight to Pounawea for a church camp, and will not be on air
until 16 April. May God bless and protect Alan, Averil and family, during days
of separation and travel, and in all they do in His service.
BARRY ZL2FV (Palmerston North) – Recently
spent 2 nights in Napier to see “42nd Street”. Then on to Taupo and Whakatane. 1,100km.
We give thanks for enjoyable and safe travel.
BOB ZL1BMA (Hamilton) – Bob
remains involved in local church activities, where he is presently involved in
studies on “Experiencing God”.
BRUCE ZL4BEP (Oamaru) – Following on from phone
calls between Bruce and Graham ZL3NZ, we are looking forward to Bruce returning
to the airwaves once his antenna is up and running.
CECIL ZL1BXT (Hamilton) – Is so
thankful for the level of health he enjoys and for support of local church
folk. Cecil was impressed by the Parliamentary prayer for Christchurch and NZ
offered by Speaker of House Lockwood Smith. We give thanks for that too, Cecil
– also for your continued support and contact with us.
DAVID ZL1UTS (Auckland) – David, Lyn
and family, as part of our radio family, remain in our thoughts and prayers,
especially pertaining to appropriate employment, personal health, and strength
to face daily challenges. May the grace and peace of our Father in Heaven bless
this family and their home.
ERIC ZL1ASI (Whangarei) –Early
March travelled to Manawatu and Palmerston to catch up with family. Work on garage completed, so can now use
as workshop.
GARY ZL3SV (Motueka) – On 19
February reported having received 20 wasp stings when their nest disturbed, but
thankfully was OK. Is running a new TS480. We thank Gary for continuing to host
our website, and for the wonderful “slide show” of photos it includes. You may
find some of the items on the “Links” page of interest too. Very
thought-provoking material.
JOHN ZL3TR (Christchurch) –
Wonderful to hear John from his own QTH on 12 March. We know John is very much
missing the friendship of James ZL3IJ, and we will be keeping in touch. His xyl
Rose is to undergo further foot surgery, and we trust this will facilitate her
walking again. This dear lady is an inspiration to talk to, and her faith in
our Lord is strong. May God bless both John and Rose.
KEITH ZL3AHL (Christchurch) – Although
Keith and Grace feel the aftershocks, their home is not damaged – though two
radio friends’ homes are destroyed. Has had a trip to Hamilton since last
letter – and another trip will be taken this week, when we pray journeying
mercies for them both.
KELVIN ZL1LY (Tokoroa) – Recently
enjoyed visit of son from Auckland.
LINDSAY ZL2LKS (Palmerston North –
True Light FM) – We thank Lindsay for sending March Prayer Letter. An evening
of hymn singing and fellowship was planned at the Church on Vogel on 26 March for
radio listeners (sorry this letter too late, though mentioned on air). They give thanks to God for contact with
listeners in Ukraine, and request prayer for wisdom in responding; also for
smooth running of computers. Remember you can listen online at www.truelightfm.co.nz
LOU ZL1USN (Nelson) – Daughter in
Heathcote Valley (ChCh) had slight damage to home, and Lou was visited recently
by Grandchildren from there. Karen, a dear friend whom we have met, usually
joins in with an encouraging word on nets. Local radio club recently held an
open night for any interested in ham radio.
MARK ZL4WT (Upper Hutt) – Gives
thanks for safety of daughter and niece who were in student café at time of
ChCh earthquake. Time with daughter’s fiance’s parents much enjoyed – will be
visiting USA in October for marriage.
PAUL ZL2BEQ (Palmerston North) –
Has been busy travelling to family celebrations: in Wellington for a Granddaughter’s birthday, 40th
birthday of daughter Roseanne. Also we wish many blessings on a new Grandson
born to Fiona. We trust Paul is much recovered from a recent bout of shingles.
PETER ZL3AQN (Lyttelton) – Has spent
some time out of town, recently returned, and Peter reports further cracks in
his own home, although it is habitable. He is sleeping on ground floor as a
precaution. Main street in Lyttelton has taken a heavy toll, and timeball
station is badly damaged. His daughter who works in city, has still to retrieve
things from her office. Peter’s church in Sumner has suffered large cracks in
foundation slab, so not being used meantime, and the congregation is having to
share rather cramped conditions in the smaller Redcliffs church. We think of
you Peter, in that “shaky” area,
remembering the Solid Rock on which we stand.
PETER ZL1CDF (Huntly) – We thank
Peter for faithful attendance on nets each week. May God bless him and Estelle from day to day, and keep them
well.
RAY ZL2TDO (Lower Hutt) – Spent an
enjoyable 10 days away in Upper North Island with family early February,
including a visit to PETER ZL1CDF in Huntly. Very busy repairing and painting
house with son’s help. Much involved with services at local church, so life is
full. Enjoyed a recent reunion with fellow workers from long ago.
WARREN ZL3WPS (Hamilton) – Enjoyed a
holiday in Christchurch in February, visiting Nelson, Lyttelton, Ferrymead,
Wigram museum, Rangiora, and rail to Greymouth. Has since been to Auckland with
cousin, visiting museum and Devonport by ferry. This trip included the
Christening of a young relative. Warren is following up an interest in HF
mobile. He also regularly visits
Mother, taking her out whenever able. We remember Warren in prayer as he
attends hospital soon for a health issue.
OTHERS JOINING NETS NOT MENTIONED
ABOVE
GRAHAM
ZL3NZ, MARY ZL3MD,STAN ZL4OW, TREVOR ZL2TN.
Also a phone call from DAVID ZL1UFE suggesting that any local radio
station started up to help locals, may appreciate input from Christian Hams.
Just a suggestion, and thanks David for contacting us.
WE SEEK YOUR PRAYERS
First we
would ask for prayer on behalf of any in this Fellowship with SPECIAL NEEDS just now, like those mentioned in notes
above. This also includes all who live
in Christchurch with its struggle to recover, and daily uncertainty. We remember
GEOFF ZL3PX and any others in the Christchurch area not in regular contact. We
would always be glad to hear from you.
We also remember any members/friends in VK-land – we remember you have
been through trials.
We would ask for prayer for our NETMASTERS, TREVOR ZL2TN, PAUL ZL2BEQ, and
KELVIN ZL1LY, as they faithfully lead our nets and provide support and
advice as needed. Today Kelvin even
requested some help, so if anyone at all who comes on 40m feels they could, or
would like to, relieve Kelvin for even one Sunday a month, we would be glad to
hear from you. Conditions on 40m are much improved, and more are joining nets,
which is so good.
Most importantly, could you please pray
for THIS FELLOWSHIP, that its
purpose will always be to glorify our Heavenly Father, and be a worthy support
to Christian radio hams and a witness to listeners. We are mindful of the awesome privilege of being involved with such a group, but that it also includes an awesome
responsibility before God. Thank you so
much.
IN CONCLUSION (Hebrews 12:1-3)
“Therefore,
since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off
everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run
with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus
(Yahushua), the Author and Perfecter of our faith. … Consider Him who endured …
so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
73s,
until we meet again.
GRAHAM
ZL3NZ and MARY ZL3MD
Fellowship
Motto
To do good and to
communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. (Hebrews
13:16)
Contact
us: Graham and Mary Dacombe, 20 Allin Drive, Waikuku Beach 7402 North
Canterbury
Phone:
03-312
7782 Fax: 03-312 7783 Email: arcf@xtra.co.nz
Nets:
Saturdays
7.30 p.m.. on 3.650 MHz – Sundays 4 p.m. on 7.150 MHz
Website:
www.arcf.co.nz