We opened with prayer and worship, led by Grant, who celebrated his 68th birthday this week. Sue read a psalm after the worship and Trish introduced our guest speakers. Susan Lea shared her experiences in Israel, with Sar-El, a volunteer programme with the IDF, but she had many other interesting things to share from her excellent photo record of the trip.

Dennis McLeod was for many years one of the Christian Friends of Israel New Zealand Representatives, and he and his wife Penny served both the Jewish and Arab Communities in Israel for some years. Dennis shared extensively from his practical and writing experience (he has authored several books, one of which may soon be turned into a movie) and a driving passion for the significance of the Feasts of Israel.

Dennis also spoke some words of tribute to Trish and her sterling work, appropriately enough as it was Trish's birthday. A Birthday celebration followed,complete with cake - only one candle, so Trish left us guessing :) A very convivial time of chattng and networking followed, with some interest in the books Dennis had on the library table.