Dear Members and Friends of The Christian Community in Perth,

During the festival time of St John the Baptist we are called to listen again to his words: “Change your way of being – bring about a change of heart and mind!” So it is very pertinent that this St John's visit will start with two very important meetings where together with priests Hartmut, Martin and myself, we will focus on the whole question of the future of The Christian Community in Perth – especially with regard to how it can come about that a priest is resident in Perth .

Although the thrust of our gesture will be to look at where we are now and how we can consciously and confidently create a future for The Christian Community in Perth – it is also important to look back. Where we are now able to stand, - the firmness of our grounding as a community, has a lot to do with the past. We can feel strength under our feet if we remain true to all the good that has gone before. And in this respect, there is a tremendous legacy of goodness provided by over eighteen years of deeds of strength carried out in Christ's name. We only have to think of all the baptisms and confirmations, the number of times that the Act of Consecration of Man has been celebrated, and the many supportive meetings, conversations and deeds that have been carried positively into human destinies.

During this visit we will have the opportunity of participating in two Saturday morning seminars which will focus on how we can bring about transformation and strong community development through finding a way to live from the present into the future creatively – and increasingly free of the hindrances of the past – whilst building on all that is positive that has gone before.

In preparation for this visit and the important meetings at its beginning, I am very grateful for the good work of our new Perth Management Committee. But what they are now achieving can, of course, only be possible through the very fine efforts of the members of the past committee who continue to be very supportive. Please note the important preparatory community meeting on the programme for Thursday 12 June. Your attendance and input is crucial.

One of the current changes is going to be very visible in the move of our venue from the Perth Waldorf School to the City Beach Hall. As you know, it wasn't possible for us to continue to be able to hire the room at the school because of changes taking place there. However, as other possibilities of a suitable venue arise, we should be alert to them. Please notify a committee member if you hear of something that might be worth investigating. In the meantime, the City Beach Hall should work well – but it will mean a longer drive for many people – and less for others. Let's make the drive well worth it!!

I'm looking forward to seeing you all again soon,

Kevin Coffey