The Christmas Message
Posted by Michael Knight on Dec 21, 2016
The Venerable Archdeacon David Ruthven
James Hamilton was invited to introduce Venerable Archdeacon David Ruthven to deliver the Christmas Message for the Wollundry Rotarians. James advised that David has had stints in Queanbeyan, Cootamundra, and The Sapphire Coast before coming to Wagga Wagga. He has many qualifications, including Bachelor of Theology, Sports Management, Parks and Recreation, and management - a well educated man.
It is a known national characteristic for New Zealand born people to seek to dress in Black, and that may have influenced the career choice for David - he was in clerical garb - black.
David thanked Wollundry Rotary for the support of the Parish Pantry, and told us anecdotally about the need for this service.
He launched into the Christmas message by asking us to suggest the key events of the Christmas Story. He heard our responses - Birth of Christ - three wise Men - Shepherds in the field - Stars in the east - Herod upset, and immaculate conception, but David steered us back to the birth in a stable, placed in a manger. All of this because there was a census, and that took us to project planning.
This edict to have a census came from the governor of Syria. Recent events have proven that this position attracts some unsavoury individuals, but Archdeacon David didn't dwell on this point.
Back to project planning. What does this story tell us about Project planning? We were told that good timing is essential, make sure that you leverage all opportunities and remain adaptable.
Another theme that David developed was that some self deprivation was good for spiritual development. To live without luxuries and remain aware to the plight of the needy can build character.
David wrapped up his presentation by urging a focus on the positive things in life, offering God's blessing, and his wish that Christmas her a time of peace.
Then he drew the raffle for Polioplus, and the wine draw - A positive result for Peter Crozier.