Welcome to Illawarra Lutheran Parish

Faith Talk: Discuss in your household or small group:
Have you given up something to follow Jesus? Share your story.
What did Simon, Andrew, James and John give up to follow Jesus? How do you think they felt?
What does it mean to be a “fisher of people”?

Devotional Practices: In your home devotional times this week, pray for people who do not know Jesus. Make a list of names (perhaps in the shape of a fish!) and pray for each of the people in turn. Reproduce the list for each household member to carry with them during the week.

Service: St. Francis of Assisi is credited as having said “Preach the gospel always; if necessary, use words.” Our acts of loving service to others are part of what it means to “fish for people”. Is there a non-Christian in your circle of relationships whom you could serve in some way this week? Discuss together and plan an act of service e.g. invite them into your home for a meal (you could serve a fish dish!); offer to help with child-minding; surprise them with a gift of baked goods.

Rituals and Traditions: For many centuries the “fish” has been an important Christian symbol. In times of the early church, it was dangerous to be known as a Christian in some parts of the Roman Empire; so believers developed a “code language” to reveal their faith to others who were Christian. A Christian would draw on the ground the upper half of a fish symbol. If the other persons was a Christian they would recognize this and add a second curved line to complete the drawing of a fish.
Place the fish symbol in different parts of your home to symbolize your faith in Jesus.