Casey Life acknowledged in State Parliament

Judith Graley MP  Gave the following speech at the 4th June 2010 ASSEMBLY

Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren South) -- It was a joy to attend the national day of thanksgiving at Casey Life Church in Hampton Park on the last Sunday in May. Senior pastors Graham and Julie Shand are passionate about reaching out to the community, and under their leadership the church welcomes everyone with open arms. I admire Graham and Julie's commitment to sharing their love of God. People in my community are fortunate to have such generous-hearted people serving them.

With its strong sense of compassion, Casey Life has also led missions to Sri Lanka, India, Fiji and the Philippines. It is very ably supported by pastors Joseph De Souza, Phil Olsen and Emmanuel Chembiah, and there is the very talented pastor, Charmaine Sime, who performs like a rock star and inspires young people to live a life with purpose and fun and to be extraordinary.

The old, the young, men and women, and people from many different countries and backgrounds are all important and can find a place at Casey Life. The church's mission is building bridges, changing lives, and it certainly is. For thanksgiving day church members said a big thank you to all the local small business people who provide services, goods and, when asked, donations to the Hampton Park community. I thought the small business people really appreciated the acknowledgement and appreciation. I know that the church will continue to grow and do good things for others. There is a sign in the church that says 'Greater things are yet to come; greater things are still to be done'.

I look forward to enjoying many more great times with the folk from Casey Life. The service finished fittingly with uplifting singing led by Maryann De Costa, backed up by Julie Shand, Isadora Zhimomi, Tanya James and Ilo Zhimomi, with band members Jared Shand, Caleb Shand, Jonathon De Souza and Malcolm Anderson. They sang How Great is Our God with a great deal of passion.