Name

Norainie Bargholz

What was your life style like when you deciced to follow Jesus?

I'd always thought I was pretty good before I became a Christian (like many people, I guess) - in a similar vein to the Pharisee, I didn't do drugs, I'd only ever been drunk once in my life, I wasn't involved in any sexual immorality, I didn't steal or murder, I'd been a reasonable child to my parents (my sister always said she had to rebel for me). But I didn't know that just one sin separates you from God and that I was a sinner.

What year were you baptised? How old were you?

April 1987. 23 years old.

Where did you begin to worship and what was your first impression of the church?

The church in Canberra. I began attending worship services and bible studies with Michael (I was going out with him) long before I became a Christian, so my first impressions were made then.

I thought the people were really friendly and welcoming and very involved with the bible, but I had no preconceived ideas having come from an Islamic background.

What difficulties / challenges did you have in striving to be like Jesus?

The same ones I have now - to be more patient, to be less proud, to remember it's all for the glory of Jesus and not myself.

What challenges did you have in feeling part of the Lord’s body?

Just the challenge I had of overcoming prejudices I had against Christianity as a Muslim. I've already said the church in Canberra was very welcoming; in many ways, the brethren in Canberra were similar to me (university educated public servants). It wasn't difficult fitting in there.

What principles of the Restoration movement (restoring Christianity to be as it is in the New Testament) are important to you?

Sticking to the word, not binding that which is simply tradition.

What did you think about having no musical instruments in worship?

Not a problem - worship isn't about entertainment, but adoration of God. Sometimes, having an instrument can be a distraction from the main aim.

What spiritual interest did you have before becoming a Christian?

No specific interest. I'd been brought up a Muslim, and didn't know much about Christianity; I'd attended a Catholic high school in Malaysia and been impressed and inspired by the ideals Jesus represented, but hadn't thought about pursuing them until I met Michael.

What is important to you, in how you walk in Jesus today?

To know God's word, to try to live the ideals of Jesus (got a long way to go with that),to give him glory.

Where do you worship today? Approximately how many brethren?

Eastside.

What roles do you carry out in the church?

Teach children's and women's classes.