Author: Jenny Baxter

Posted on

CHURCH PROFILE: Perth Baptist Church

Perth Baptist Church Profile
Perth Baptist Church Profile

Generations of Legacy

Long ago, Perth Baptist Tabernacle had its foundation stone laid on the 8th August 1888. This was thanks to incredibly generous support by local pastoralists William and Mary Ann Gibson. Their legacy continues . . .

Church Administrator, Tony Hart, compiled this profile, with help from long-time member Fay Bunton, and others.

Perth Baptist: The Present

In March 2020 the Leadership of the church met and made the decision to close due to Covid-19. When it happened, one leader said, ‘If we close, we may never reopen’. At that time the church had an average attendance of about 45 to 50 mostly people aged over 70.

During the closure, we kept in touch with every person. Then, we came back with a new enthusiasm! We have since grown to an average attendance of 55 to 60, with several middle-aged people joining us. Recently, we had at least six people at our service who are currently seekers – all at different stages. They all need Jesus.

Most of these seekers were introduced to the church through the Alpha Community Meal activity we ran in October to December last year. On the last night we had about 45 people sit down for dinner and listen to the Gospel from the Alpha course.

Tuesday nights – We are open!

From about April last year, we were offered left over bread by a local baker each Tuesday. We opened the Hall to the community on Tuesday nights, and saw God provide fresh fruit and vegetables and pre-cooked meals.

Then, Eskleigh Home [local disability support service] ran a cooking activity for their residents, packed what they cooked, and gave it to us! The activity has grown beyond expectations with many needy people coming, while others in the community come for a chat.

Eskleigh Residents
Eskleigh residents at last Steptember’s service celebrating the church’s
connection with the disability provider.

Recent activities

On the Saturday before Christmas 2022, we arranged a Community Picnic. We had over 300 people come and be part of it. They then came to our Christmas Carol Service that night – over 200 people filled the church to overflowing!

On the last Sunday in February, we commenced what will be a regular Sunday evening activity. There will be a meal once a month, and afternoon tea on the other weeks. The content will be The Chosen television series.

We are open to see what God will do as we work to see His Kingdom Come in Perth.

Perth Baptist Church Profile: beginnings

READ MORE about the beginnings of Baptist work in Tasmania, written by Laurie Rowston.
HISTORY OF THE PERTH TABERNACLE provided by Perth Baptist church.

Tony Hart IS ENCOURAGED ABOUT THE FUTURE:

I was recently called by the church’s bank which was conducting an anti-money laundering audit amongst not-for-profit organisations. Many questions. One was to determine the church’s assets which I answered by saying that we have to insure our buildings for about $2 million. This was followed by a question as to how the church got the money for a Church, a Hall and a house!
It reminded me how God has worked at Perth Baptist, and given great encouragement for His continuing work.

Perth Baptist: The Past

Perth member, Fay Bunton, recalls her life in and around the church.

‘My grandparents moved to Perth in the early 1940’s. I would go and stay with them in the mid 1940’s and I went to church with grandma.

“My grandfather would go and open both the front doors half an hour early. In the winter he would have little round electric heaters in both aisles, to help keep the congregation warm in the cold weather.

“As we entered the church everyone was given a hymn book, as numbers of hymns were displayed on the wall above the speaker.

“We would have Sunday School at 2:30pm in the Church Hall – at least 140 children would be there all set out for grades 1 to 6. Grandma was one of many teachers.”

Perth Baptist Church Profile, Sunday School Camp, Easter - 1940s or 50s
Easter Camp at Perth, 1954.

Hive of activity

Fay married in 1960 and left Perth, but returned in the late 1980’s. Fay remembers when the church was a hive of activity – two services each Sunday, Sunday School, weddings, harvest festivals and Sunday School Anniversaries.

In the 1990’s Fay, and her sister Edna, ran the Sunday School in the vestry during morning service and recalls that the children could sing only when the church congregation sang.

Fay was part of a group who would visit the patients at Missiondale [City Mission residential facility in Evandale] and bring them to church. She recalls two patients from Missiondale coming to the Lord, marrying, and then moving to the northwest as part of the Mission Team.

The ‘best night’ Fay participated in was the Billy Graham Crusade Choir in 1959 at York Park. There, she witnessed hundreds come forward to give their life to Christ.

FAY’S PRAYER: That God’s church at Perth Baptist will continue to be a place of witness, where people can come and hear the Gospel.

Eskleigh Bible study

Fay also recalls going to the Eskleigh Home for people with a disability for Bible Study. As part of her visits to Eskleigh Fay befriended two residents – Stephen and Andrew. They were very good friends. After illness, Andrew passed away.

About a year later, when Stephen was not well, Fay told him that Andrew was now in a good place. Stephen said, ‘No he is not there yet, he is waiting for me so we can go together’. Stephen still comes to church each week with another eight residents and their four carers.

Fay’s daily prayer is that God’s church at Perth Baptist will continue to be a place of witness, where people can come and hear the Gospel.

[1] Launceston Examiner 1 May 1880, p5c7.

READ RECENT CHURCH PROFILES

Claremont Baptist | Latrobe Baptist | City Baptist, Launceston | Citywide, Mornington/Lenah Valley | LifeWay Devonport | George Town | Newstead

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

Newstead Baptist Profile

Subscribe to reCharge Here!

Keeping you updated with Tasmanian Baptists latest PRAYER, STORIES and NEWS

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Perth Baptist Church Profile

Posted on

Heartlands Autumn 2023

Heartlands Autumn 2023 is the quarterly email for EmpowHer – a network of Tasmanian women growing and encouraging each other in their God-given potential.

Table of Contents

    INTERNATIONAL IMPACT

    World Women’s Day of Prayer

    WORLD dAY OF PRAYER 2022

    Last October, Day of Prayer events were held around Tasmania. Did you get to one of them? These are incredibly encouraging times of hearing, praying and giving.

    DAY OF PRAYER ATTENDEES …

    • HEARD about the work, and worlds, of women around the globe.
    • PRAYED for the women, some of them have devastating stories.
    • GAVE to the amazing projects, run by women, which are changing families and communities.

    In 2020, Australian women raised a total of $365.
    In 2021, Tasmanian women raised a total of $560.
    And in 2022, Tasmanian women raised a total of $869! WOOT!

    Great work everyone! Watch out for the Day of Prayer opportunities in your region in October 2023, and make a difference to our world.

    NORTHERN EVENT

    Weekend Wind-Down

    Fireside Chats EmpowHer event 17th March 2023

    WHEN: 7-8:30pm Friday 17th March 2023
    WHERE: Hoo Hoo Hut, Trevallyn Nature and Rec Area (Duck Reach Rd)
    WHERE? Change of plan! New location: Liv-Eat Kings Meadows,
    Shop 143 Hobart Rd. SEE MAP
    WHAT: Wind-down for the weekend and enjoy supper!
    WHO: All women welcome
    INFO: Wendy (0407 765 414); Mary (0408 335 618)
    FLIER: Unfortunately, the flier is now out of date and no longer available.

    SO FAR IN 2023

    Women in Leadership

    No Limits Conference Feb 2022, Heartlands Autumn 2023

    Ann Herbert explains what took place at the recent No Limits women’s conference in Brisbane, when many of the sessions explored the importance of women in church leadership.

    Pictured above are Tasmanian attendees Jenna Blackwell (City), Zahara Rehrman (Summerhill), Tracey Avery (City), Ann Herbert (Citywide); Jenny Baxter (Hobart), and Kez Hutchison (Wynyard) . Plus the speakers panel, and the women gathered.

    READ Ann’s article

    ON THE LOOKOUT?

    WANTED: Southern Team Members

    EmpowHer are looking for additional team members in Southern Tasmania.

    If you regularly attend a Baptist church, enjoy being with women, and are good at organising things, then how about joining our team?

    Please contact Jenny Baxter to find out more: jenny@tasbaptists.org.au

    EmpowHer Southern Tas Activities, Heartlands Autumn 2023
    Recent EmpowHer Southern Tasmania events

    Heartlands Spring 2022

    ACTION TO CONSIDER

    Learn to Live with Less

    Heartlands Autumn 2023 - Live with Less

    How one family stopped shopping for a year

    Ethical consumption isn’t just about what you buy; it’s also learning to live with less.

    Here’s how one family took drastic action to discover what they really need for a fulfilling life.

    From Baptist World Aid.

    READ: How one family stopped shopping

    To find out about EmpowHer events and activities for women in Tasmania, please subscribe to HEARTLANDS!

    SUBSCRIBE HERE
    EmpowHer

    Heartlands Spring 2022

    Heartlands Autumn 2023

    Posted on

    Deep Thought March 2023

    Being Family Together

    Deep Thought – A bi-monthly feature in reCharge

    Being Family Together

    Dr Christa L. McKirland is a lecturer at Carey Baptist College, Auckland, and spoke at the recent Tasmanian Baptist Pastors’ Muster in Hobart.

    In the past few weeks, I’ve had the joy and privilege of speaking at three different conferences across this amazing country. The content of those talks was also hard-hitting and in many ways, controversial.

    Having never visited Australia before, I wasn’t sure how those talks were going to land, but as I prepare for my flight home to Aotearoa with my family, I returned encouraged.

    Faith and passion

    Speakers at the No Limits Conference

    Starting at the No Limits conference hosted by Baptist Women of the Pacific, I had a chance to hang out and learn from sisters from all over this hemisphere. Intentionally hosted in Brisbane, the only state where Baptists don’t ordain women, I was inspired by the faith and passion of women who are hungry for depth in our teaching and to live without limits, by the power of the Holy Spirit. This was a sacred space and deeply encouraged me.

    I was inspired by the faith and passion of women who are hungry for depth in our teaching

    My family and I next travelled to Melbourne, and then on to Tassie, where I had a chance to speak on women’s roles in the church, as well as ways to engage the LGBTQIA+ community with a heart toward unity within our diversity of views.

    What struck me, especially with the amount of discussion time we had at the two-day Muster in Tassie, was how important these conversations are to have—out loud, and with those who disagree with each other.

    Tas Baptists Pastors Muster Feb 2023 - Being Family Together
    Some of the attendees at the Pastors and Leaders Muster, Hobart. 20-21 Feb, 2023

    Today’s challenge

    I believe we are part of the church because of our belief in the resurrection of the God-human, Jesus Christ. But beyond that, our being in the same family is not based on our same beliefs. Instead, it is based on our sharing the same Spirit of adoption—the Spirit of adoption given to us because of the death and resurrection of our firstborn brother Jesus.

    However, resisting echo-chambers is a massive challenge in our day. It would be much easier to stick with people who agree with us. With those who hold to the same interpretations of Scripture, who vote the way we do, and who fear the same things we do. But that is not what it means to be the church.

    The church is the “gift of the given other” (to quote Tom Greggs from his Dogmatic Ecclesiology). How we treat the gift of the given other is a testament to the Gospel. And I truly felt like we experienced a taste of valuing that gift at these two conferences. The bravery of folks to show up knowing that we were not all on the same page. The willingness to sit in discomfort. The openness to hearing other views.

    The bravery of folks to show up knowing that we were not all on the same page. The willingness to sit in discomfort. The openness to hearing other views.

    Being family together

    These are some of the muscles we need to develop if we are truly going to be family together. If we are to be known by our love for other another (John 13:35), a great way to test this is loving those with whom we (even vehemently) disagree.

    By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

    John 13:35 (NIV)

    That way of loving does not simply mean “speaking the truth” as we understand it—but forfeiting our priority of being right over being family.

    I hope these experiences can become more common across our churches not only in this hemisphere, but globally.

    Christa McKirland, originally from the US, studied her Doctorate at St Andrews University in Scotland, and has lectured at Carey College since 2020. She now calls New Zealand/Aotearoa her home, along with husband Matt and their two children.

    More Deep Thought

    The Change Makers by Melissa Lipsett, BWA
    The Sound of Silence by Denise Stephenson
    A Change in Thinking for Changing Times by Laurie Rowston
    Courage to Make a Difference by Mark Wilson
    Just Mercy by Michael Henderson

    Read ReCharge

    February/March 2023

    Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

    Subscribe to reCharge Here!

    Keeping you updated with Tasmanian Baptists latest PRAYER, STORIES and NEWS

    We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

    Being Family Together

    Posted on

    NO LIMITS Women’s Symposium

    No Limits Women's Symposium

    Women in Leadership

    Heartlands News

    Encouraging Women

    Ann Herbert (Citywide) explains what took place at the recent No Limits conference. Other attendees pictured above are Jenna Blackwell (City), Zahara Rehrmann (Summerhill), Tracey Avery (City), Jenny Baxter (Hobart), and Kez Hutchison (Wynyard).

    Inspiring, challenging, thought-provoking, impactful!

    These were some of the words 105 women used to describe the No Limits women’s symposium held in Brisbane on 10-11 February 2023. Not only that, there was awe-inspiring worship, and opportunities for great fellowship.

    Baptist Women of the Pacific, which is part of the Baptist World Alliance, organised the conference with the intention of connecting, equipping, and mobilising women for Christian ministry across the Pacific region. They successfully did this with women attending from New Zealand including Māori, Tonga, PNG and Australia.

    No Limits Women's Symposium
    Rousing worship times; Short talks speakers respond to Q&A

    Six Tasmanian women, from Wynyard, Launceston and Hobart, enjoyed attending the conference together. The sessions explored what the Bible teaches about women, particularly with regard to their role, purpose, and potential to serve the Body of Christ and help grow God’s kingdom on earth.

    The sessions explored what the Bible teaches about women, particularly with regard to their role, purpose, and potential to serve the Body of Christ and help grow God’s kingdom on earth.

    Historical and cultural contexts

    On the Friday night, Dr Christa McKirland, lecturer in Systematic Theology at Carey Baptist College in Auckland, noted the importance of understanding the historic and cultural contexts in which the books of the Bible were written. She also emphasised the importance of being careful not to interpret individual verses in isolation from the whole of the letter or book in which these are located. She especially encouraged in-depth study of gendered passages, which historically have caused controversy.

    “God has given each of you a gift.
    Use it to build up others in the Lord.”

    Marg Mowczko

    Saturday morning began with some rousing worship, followed by theologian Margaret Mowczko, who has specialised in early Christian and Jewish studies. She spoke about the apostle Paul’s theology of ministry. In particular, she looked at Paul’s teaching about the mutuality of women and men in Christian marriage and ministry. She finished her presentation with the encouragement: “God has given each of you a gift. Use it to build up others in the Lord.”

    No Limits Women's Symposium
    Megan Powell du Toit; Conference speakers and panellists

    Bible survey with a twist

    Rev. Megan Powell du Toit, from the Australian College of Theology[1], provided a stimulating overview of the biblical story of God with women. Starting at Genesis, she explored how God sees and values woman, sees the pain sin has caused them, and how he acts to mitigate sin’s impact. From the matriarchs of Genesis and Exodus, through the female judges and prophets, Jesus’ foremothers, to the female leaders of the New Testament, Megan showed how God has continually used women to help achieve his purposes.

    The stories show that God’s mission for the church includes women and that God releases their gifts for God’s glory. Rev. du Toit encouraged each of us to fully use our God-given gifts for the sake of the Gospel.

    Empowered women

    Sela Havili

    The final speaker, Rev. Sela Havili, shared her journey of becoming an Anglican priest who serves New Zealand’s Tongan communities. Hers was an inspiring story of the challenges she faces, and the blessings she is receiving, as God uses her to help build His kingdom amongst these people. She passionately encouraged us to be “women empowered by the Spirit to reveal the love of Christ.”

    In addition to these four presentations, we enjoyed lively and stimulating panel discussions, plus inspiring presentations from five women about the local and global work they are doing across the Pacific region. 

    Responses to the No Limits women’s symposium

    Inspired
    Tracey

    The conference encouraged me to learn and question things that I have just gone along with. And I was inspired by all those passionate women who have stepped into their calling. I want to encourage other women to go next time!

    Tracey Avery, City Baptist

    Encouraging
    Jenna

    I found it so encouraging to see women empowered in utilising their gifts, strengths and calling from different nations. I want to emphasise that women just GO if there is another opportunity.

    Jenna Blackwell, TB Leadership and Mentor Coach; TBW Team (North); Ministry Team Assistant City Baptist

    Authentic
    Christa

    Even though in the past I have always been very sceptical of women’s conferences, I loved having a women’s space to be sisters together. It was a time of theological depth and the relational authenticity, and it was inspiring. I loved hearing from my sisters across the South Pacific.

    Dr Christa McKirland – conference speaker

    Blessed with new birth

    I was so encouraged to have the opportunity to take five stellar Tasmanian women to Brisbane to attend the No Limits women’s symposium. It made me aware we are blessed to have so many women in our midst who are willing to rise to the challenge, take a lead, and use their God-given gifts. They are the shoulders upon which others will now stand.

    Jenny and Elissa

    Jenny Baxter, State Director Tasmanian Baptist Women

    While it was my dream as a leader in women’s ministry to see this event happen, I was still overwhelmed by the response. The need to speak justice into this area is even greater and devastating than I realised. There are new seeds to create an online community of support and similar events in other parts of Australia and the Pacific. Most overwhelming were the stories women shared in the breaks. There were stories of frustration, sadness and grief. Incredibly intelligent women, given amazing gifts, were being limited if not oppressed, my heart broke anew. I felt like God was birthing something new that day so we will pray and listen.

    Elissa Macpherson, Conference Organiser and President, BWP; National Director, ABW

    1 Megan also co-hosts the podcast, With All Due Respect, with Rev. Dr Michael Jensen

    No Limits Women’s Symposium

    Heartlands News

    Read ReCharge

    February/March 2023

    Printable (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

    Subscribe to reCharge Here!

    Keeping you updated with Tasmanian Baptists latest PRAYER, STORIES and NEWS

    We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

    Posted on

    ReCharge NEWS February 2023

    Tas Baptist NEWS February 2023 showing Citywide Baptist and their three congregations, gathering on Aboriginal Su day

    22nd February 2023 | ReCharge News

    Click Item to Read

      ReCharge News February 2023

      Raising Funds for Ukraine

      YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE

      Anyone can assist Christians in Kyiv to bring hope and needed assistance by contributing to this fundraiser.

      At 6pm on Wednesday 22nd February, Kelvin Smith (Hobart) performed at a Piano Recital and Fundraiser for Ukrainian Refugees at the Hobart Town Hall, 50 Macquarie St, Hobart.

      Kelvin has grown a following for his Piano of Tasmania videos on Facebook in recent years.

      Kelvin performed, along with Timothy Prajogo, playing the concert Steinway piano at Hobart Town Hall. As well, Ukrainian Pastor Anton Kaluzhny, spoke live from Kyiv about his work helping thousands in the war in Ukraine.

      You can donate to this amazing initiative here: GoFundMe.

      L -R: Kelvin, Anton spoke via video link, Timothy

      Walk this Way – Newstead

      FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHORT WALKS

      Sunday February 5th was our inaugural ‘Walk This Way’, event taking a leisurely walk around Heritage Park. The guided family-friendly short walks are hosted by Pastor Dan Hutchison of Newstead Baptist, in partnership with Scripture Union bushwalking club, Boots ‘N All.

      It was lovely to see all generations represented, the kids specially enjoying the playground, as these walks are aimed to help connect, grow and inspire one another.

      Newstead have eight Walk this Way events planned this year around Launceston with the next at Trevallyn Dam, Sunday March 5th 2pm-4pm. If you are interested in going on this walk, please phone Dan Hutchison on 0457 765 907 for more details.

      Office Secretary at Newstead

      POSITION VACANT

      Newstead Baptist is currently looking for an Office Secretary to work in the Church office for up to 10 hours per week. The position is to give support to the Pastor, Church Secretary and Church Treasurer in regard to clerical and administrative support.

      They are looking for someone with excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills; demonstrates proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe tools; can maintain digital and physical church records; produce the weekly church publication; manage permanent and casual church property hires; and maintain publish and update website and social media posts. The person hired will be in agreement with the values, vision and mission of the Newstead Baptist Church.

      Position Description: Please contact Church office 03 6331 6891; email minister@newsteadbaptist.org.au, or church secretary thelmasherriff@bigpond.com; or phone 0419 536 159.

      To apply: Contact the Pastor via email or Newstead Baptist Church, 14 Wentworth Street, Newstead Tas 7250

      Newstead Baptist Church

      Türkiye and Syria Crisis

      BAPTIST WORLD AID RESPONDS

      Our hearts are heavy as we witness the devastation in Türkiye and Syria. On 6th February, two powerful earthquakes (measuring 7.8 and 7.5 respectively), and subsequent aftershocks destroyed large parts of southern Türkiye and northern Syria.  

      Baptist World Aid are responding to this disaster, alongside their Christian Partners in Türkiye and Syria. The situation is unfolding rapidly and the BWA team are in regular contact with our Partners—including Baptist organisations—assessing the damage and how to best respond.

      They have produced resources that will help interested churches support this appeal that are available to download here.  

      What we know so far

      • Both earthquakes created over 100 large aftershocks that collapsed over 5,000 buildings and destroyed entire sections of cities while people slept.  
      • The death toll has reached over 41,000 but is rising rapidly. 
      • A harsh winter has brought extreme cold, and snowstorms increasing the difficulty faced by rescue teams.  
      • Many impacted are among families who fled civil war in Syria, including millions of displaced people living in overcrowded conditions, and makeshift—already dependent on humanitarian assistance.  
      • Ongoing conflict in the region is making it difficult for organisations to access accurate information or provide immediate aid to those who are in need.  
      • Medical facilities are overwhelmed, with reports of hospitals forced to triage people according to who will and won’t survive.  

      PLEASE PRAY FOR THE DEVASTATION IN TURKEY AND SYRIA – FOR THE PEOPLE WHOSE LIVES ARE IMPACTED, FOR THOSE WHO ARE GRIEVING, FOR CHURCHES WHO ARE ASSISTING, AND FOR INTERNATIONAL WORKERS WHO HAVE A MAMMOTH TASK AHEAD OF THEM.

      AND PRAY IF/HOW MUCH YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE TO THE BWA APPEAL

      Celebrating Capacity Workshop

      The Bridges Out of Poverty trainer, Nairn Walker presents Celebrating Capacity. A powerful training experience for those working with vulnerable people.

      The two-day workshop will help you see economic inequity differently. It will assist you to understand and identify the capacity people have developed to negotiate life’s challenges. You will explore ways to harness this capacity to co-create with them a better future for themselves, their families and their communities.

      • When: 8.30am – 4.30pm, Mon 27th to Tues 28th March, 2023
      • Where: C3 Church Hobart – 64 Anglesea Street Hobart, TAS 7004
      • Cost: $345 (includes morning tea and lunch on both days)
      • More Info: Download Flyer >
      • Bookings: Limited places so get in quick! Register here >
      Celebrating Capacity

      Fostering Hope
      Northern Mentoring Officer

      Tasmanian Baptists and Fostering Hope work together to encourage churches to support and care for foster children and their families.

      Fostering Hope has a one-day/week position available in Launceston.

      The primary tasks include: Recruitment of new mentors in Northern Tasmania; Overseeing the screening process for all northern mentors; Facilitating logistics of training days, training will be delivered by the Mentoring Coordinator and the Executive Officer.

      Applications close on 24th February 2023.

      Find out more >

      Northern Mentoring Office, Fostering Hope Tasmania

      Aboriginal Sunday 2023

      In 1938 Aboriginal leader, William Cooper, asked Australian Christian churches to set aside the Sunday before January 26th every year as Aboriginal Sunday. 

      While many would see the controversy around Australia Day as a comparatively new thing, William Cooper and a number of other Aboriginals first met for a day of mourning on January 26th 1938, and it was this event that prompted his call to the churches. 

      This year, on Sunday 22nd January, the three Citywide congregations gathered at the Domain Amphitheatre for an Aboriginal Sunday service led by proud Lia Pootah man, Paul Dare.

      Paul says, “If churches want to take the teaching of Jesus seriously, then they can’t ignore the pain and injustice that Aboriginal people continue to experience, which gets focused at this time of year.

      “Here in Tasmania, in particular, we need to face our past in order that our future can be different.”

      Paul Dare speaking; Citywide gathered at the Domain amphitheater.

      Spiritual Care Coordinator

      Baptcare Hiring!

      (NB: Applications closed Sunday 5th February, 2023)

      Baptcare are looking for a Spiritual Care Coordinator (AKA Chaplain) for Family, Disability and Health.

      The position is part-time (0.8 FTE), and is based in Hobart.

      DOWNLOAD position description >

      ReCharge News February 2023

      Marrawah Thanksgiving Service

      Sunday 5th February 2023

      For several years now, the small fellowship who gather at Marrawah Baptist Church have been operating on Sundays on an irregular basis. More recently, most of the congregation have shifted to Smithton, and are now attending the Baptist church there. Now, the membership has decided it is time to permanently close their doors.

      A Thanksgiving Service will be held at Marrawah Baptist to say farewell, and celebrate 65 years of Christian work and mission that has taken place through this fellowship. 

      SUNDAY 5TH FEBRUARY 2023
      10 – 10:45am Pre-service cuppa
      11am Service begins
      A light lunch will follow in the Marrawah Memorial Hall

      All welcome to share food, stories and memories

      MAP: Marrawah Baptist Church, 826 Comeback Rd, Marrawah TAS 7330

      Rodney Marshall and Michael Henderson (behind camera) recently met with the Marrawah leadership team to plan the best way forward.
      Rodney Marshall and Michael Henderson (behind camera) recently met with the Marrawah leadership team to plan the best way forward.

      Read More ReCharge!

      February 2023

      DOWNLOAD Recent Issues of ReCharge

      echarge-news-september-202

      Subscribe to reCharge Here!

      Keeping you updated with Tasmanian Baptists latest PRAYER, STORIES and NEWS

      We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

      ReCharge News February 2023

      Posted on

      Thanksgiving Service

      Marrawah Baptist - the people gathered for the final service on Sunday 5 February 2023

      Marrawah’s Grand Finale

      Celebration, thanks and farewell

      By Dan Evenhuis

      On Sunday 5th February 2023, Marrawah Baptist Church held their final service when 78 people squeezed in to give thanks. They took it out with a bang. You can watch snippets of the service via YouTube, below.

      Personally, my ministry started in Marrawah, and I had the privilege of MC’ing the service. A long time ago, I led the local youth group, and gave my first sermon in the mid-90’s. Patrick Bakes, who has been a regular speaker and encourager at Marrawah, shared a couple of songs.

      Ted Nibbs, who has also been a regular speaker at Marrawah for many decades, gave the final sermon. This was complemented by Stephen Baxter (Mission Director for Tasmanian Baptists). Both men spoke of the seasons of God’s work, and the sewing of seeds over the years, but also the courage to know when it is time to complete a chapter and see what God opens next. 

      However, the people worthy of note are those who kept this church functioning these recent, sparse years: Peter and Silvia Godman, and Ada Baldock.

      Thanksgiving Service at Marrawah, 5 Feb 2023 - people began to gather early for the pre-service cuppa
      Marrawah Baptist 5 Feb 2023 - a delicious morning tea was served before the servcie began
      Thanksgiving Service at Marrawah Baptist 5 Feb 2023 - the building was packed!
      5 Feb 2023 - speakers at the Thanksgiving morning

      FROM LEFT: People gathered early; Pre-service morning tea; The building was packed out!; Speakers on the day.

      Seventy Years of Service

      Marrawah Baptist church began in 1953, and during our closing service one of the founding members, Miriam Godman, shared some of the history. Marrawah has grown and commissioned many missionaries, held thriving Girls Brigades, summer-clubs, hosted ‘GodStock’ (Christian Surfers of Tasmania camp), and was often the starting point for Bike for Bibles.

      Stephen Baxter reflected on the day saying, “It was my privilege, on behalf of Tas Baptists, to join the folk at Marrawah as they celebrated the faithfulness of God and to give thanks for the service of many people over many decades.

      “It was also a day of mixed emotions. Our Baptist work was the last remaining church to close in Marrawah. There was grief in that, but also hope and expectation for what God might do next.”

      Is there something else in the pipeline at Marrawah?  “Watch this space,” was all Stephen could say.

      The thanksgiving service at Marrawah Baptist was a sad occasion as the doors were closed for the last time. But please pray with us as we determine God’s will for Marrawah.

      Dan Evenhuis - Citywide

      Dan Evenhuis
      Executive Pastor, Citywide Baptist
      dan.evenhuis@citywidehobart.org.au

      Read ReCharge

      February/March 2023

      Printable (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

      Subscribe to reCharge Here!

      Keeping you updated with Tasmanian Baptists latest PRAYER, STORIES and NEWS

      We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

      Thanksgiving Service at Marrawah Baptist

      Posted on

      GOD and Life in Tasmania

      Fresh wind blow, Tas Baptists, Stephen Baxter writes

      Changing Landscape

      Noticing the Deep Questions

      Tas Baptist’s Mission Director, Stephen Baxter, has had some time out to ponder and reflect from a distance. It’s amazing what a trip beyond Tasmania’s shores can do to shift your perspective!

      We are well and truly into 2023. Kids are back at school, church programs get underway, and life returns to its familiar rhythm. Jenny and I have just returned from a time in Spain to be with our daughter, Alice, and son-in-law, AJ, on the birth of their daughter, Koa.

      Alice, AJ and Koa, Christmas Day 2022
      Alice, AJ and Koa, Christmas 2022

      Spain, like Australia, is very secular. This got me wondering what God thinks about all these people going about their lives, without giving much thought to the deep and essential questions of life. The question was heightened by the fact that Alice and AJ are in Spain working with others in bring the good news of Jesus to Spaniards.

      My thinking has remained with me as I return to Tasmania.

      THE CHURCH: From Spain, to Tasmania, to Marrawah!

      Last Sunday I was with the Marrawah church as they celebrated their final church service. It was a day of celebration and sadness. As I looked at the pictures of the past, spoke with people, and heard their shared memories, it was clear that over the years God has been at work in special ways.

      But times change, and the church as it was, is no longer viable. Marrawah is a little picture of the church in Australia and Spain. It is no longer the centre of our communities like it was. However, that does not mean it is the end of the church. Rather, it is the end of a certain form of church that worked well for a season, and needs to adjust for a changing world.

      Because the world keeps changing, the church needs to be constantly renewing itself

      Stephen Baxter

      God has given everything needed through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. But because the world keeps changing, the church needs to be constantly renewing itself. As Germain theologian Helmut Thielicke put it,

      The gospel must be preached afresh and told in new ways to each generation, since every generation has its own unique questions. The gospel must constantly be forwarded to a new address, because the recipient is repeatedly changing his place of address.

      Fresh wind, B L O W

      On the day of Pentecost God did a new thing and the church was born. Whenever we celebrate that day, it is a reminder of the need for constant renewal. A quick survey of church history reveals just that. The Holy Spirit is at work renewing the church from age to age, enabling and equipping it to be the church of its particular age. May it be so here in Tasmania.

      Returning home, this is my prayer for Tasmanian Baptists, and I encourage it to be yours too: that God would blow a fresh movement of the Holy Spirit through us, that we might be vibrant churches with a revitalised theology finely attuned by the Holy Spirit to the changing needs of a changing world.

      Let me encourage you to join me in praying this prayer.

      Stephen Baxter
      Stephen Baxter, Senior Pastor

      Stephen Baxter
      Mission Director
      Tasmanian Baptists

      FIND OUT MORE about the Mission and Leadership Development Team and how they can support you and your Tasmanian Baptist church.

      Read ReCharge

      February/March 2023

      Printable (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

      Subscribe to reCharge Here!

      Keeping you updated with Tasmanian Baptists latest PRAYER, STORIES and NEWS

      We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

      God and Life in Tasmania

      Posted on

      Walk the World Winners!

      Walk the World = Baptist Mission Australia

      Baptists At Our Best

      Congratulations Lifeway Baptist

      Baptist Mission Australia award for praying, walking, driving and time in the garden! 

      Last November, Baptist Churches nationally were encouraged by Baptist Mission Australia to pray for their community, neighbourhood and the world in the Walk the World campaign.

      Lifeway Baptist in Devonport took up the challenge, and their efforts so impressed Baptist Mission Australia, that they won a prize!

      Jenny Mountney of Lifeway Baptist explains what happened.

      Baptist Mission Australia’s November initiative of “Walk the World” and praying over a three-day period really captured the heart of the Lifeway community.

      There were people praying as they drove the streets, walked the streets and undertook activity across the state, country and overseas. The intentional prayer focus was for our community, state, country and intercultural teams, wherever they were.  

      From the youngest in Sunday Tribes, to the most elderly, it is thought over 60% of the community took part. Nothing inspires people more than a challenge – and an amazing purpose – to bring our world to the Lord. We asked for healing and peace, strength and vision.

      Baptist Mission Australia provided prayer guides, and children’s resources and activities. Our insomniacs prayed through their nights. The workers took moments in their day to walk and pray. The bushwalkers marvelled at God’s glory while counting steps and kilometers. 

      Watch Lifeway’s video report

      Excited responses

      It was an amazing weekend filled with hope and joy. Plus, we are excited to receive the award for Australian Baptist Churches Walk the World winners! So many amazing stories came from the initiative, and it is quite surreal that Lifeway Baptist was selected. A huge thank you goes to every person who supported, prayed, walked and rode praying for our world. 

      Teagan Dwyer-Riviere, Communications Manager at Baptist Mission Australia, said “Our team was so blown away by the amazing report you shared about how your whole church community got involved in Walk the World in November last year! It was so encouraging to read of the creative ways people of all ages, abilities and interests engaged in prayer. It sounds like it was a very rich time of prayer and community engagement.”.

      Senior Pastor Nicholas Alexander was ecstatic. “It’s super encouraging for Lifeway, both for the mission’s team who work so hard, and for all of us in our prayer life.”

      We at Lifeway are looking forward to receiving our first prize of a whole of church morning tea and guest speaker from Baptist Mission Australia. Fingers crossed this can take place in May Missions Month! 

      Read ReCharge

      February/March 2023

      Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

      Subscribe to reCharge Here!

      Keeping you updated with Tasmanian Baptists latest PRAYER, STORIES and NEWS

      We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

      Walk the World Winners

      Posted on

      Baptist Churches Christmas Events 2022

      Tas Baptists Christmas Events listing 2022

      Your Christmas

      Tasmanian Baptist Christmas Events 2022

      Services and Events

      Table of Contents – Click your region for church activities

        NB: Every effort has been made to list Christmas info about as many Tas Baptist churches as possible. 

        Northern Tasmania

        North: Tasmanian Baptist Christmas Events 2022
        LOCATION
        click name for map        		WHENEVENT
        Beauty Point – “The Point”7pm, Fri 16th DecStephen Atkins Christmas Concert
        5pm, Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Service
        George Town6pm and 7:30pm,
        Wed 14th Dec        		Christmas Parade and Carols George Town community event. The church will run a Christmas Quiz en route.
        10:30am, Sat 17th DecChristmas Carols with The George Town Combined Churches, across the road from Woolworths
        10:30am 25th DecChristmas Day Service
        Launceston – “City”Sat 24th DecThe Drop-In Centre will be in operation at the Red Dove Cafe
        9:30am Sun 25th DecChristmas Gathering Theme: Prince of Peace
        Launceston – “Gateway”10am Sun 18th DecA Christmas Concert and Carols with Stephen Atkins. Morning Tea to follow
        9am Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Service
        Sun 1st JanNo service today
        Longford – “Riverlands”6pm, Sat 17th DecCommunity Carols followed by Supper.
        Free family event
        10am Sun 25th Dec Christmas Day Service
        Newstead5pm Sat 17th Dec Neighbourhood carol singing in the streets of Newstead
        10am Sun 18th Dec Carol singing in the church grounds, followed by a BBQ lunch. BYO Salad to share. Everything else supplied. Giving Tree envelopes supplied for giving to City Mission
        9:30am Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Service
        Christmas offering to Baptist World Aid
        PerthFrom 4:30pm Sat 17th DecCommunity Picnic and BBQ followed by
        Community Carol Service from 7pm
        10am Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Family Service
        Summerhill7:30pm Sun 18th DecBlue Christmas Reflective Time A space for people who struggle at Christmas, and a chance for the God of comfort to meet us in our grief and sadness.
        9:30am Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Service

        Tasmanian Baptist Christmas Events 2022

        Northwest Tasmania

        Northwest: Tasmanian Baptist Christmas Events 2022
        LOCATION
        Click name for map        		WHENEVENT
        Burnie10am Sun 18th DecChurch Christmas Lunch (12pm) after the service – all welcome!
        10am Sun 25th Dec Christmas Day Service
        Devonport – “LifeWay”10am Sun 18th DecFamily Christmas Service led by the children followed by BBQ lunch, homemade donuts and Christmas stalls.
        6pm Sat 24th DecReadings and Carols service led by the Exhale Choir.
        10am Sun 25th Dec Christmas Day Service
        Lower Barrington10am Sun 18th DecCarol Service celebrating the birth of Christ
        10am Sun 25th Dec Christmas Day Service
        Penguin9:30am Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Service A short service so attendees can travel for lunch
        7pm Wed 4th JanCombined Penguin Churches Prayer Monthly meeting at Penguin Uniting, hosted by Baptists in January
        Ulverstone7pm Sat 24th DecChristmas Eve Together
        Sun 25th DecNo service today
        Sun 1st JanNo service today
        WynyardSat 24th DecCarols in the Garden will be in Guttridge Gardens after the street parade on Christmas Eve.
        10:30am Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Service
        Yolla9:30am Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Service

        Southern Tasmania

        South: Tasmanian Baptist Christmas Events 2022
        LOCATION
        Click name for map        		WHENEVENT
        Claremont6:30pm Sat 17th Dec A celebration of the Christmas Story
        In scripture and song
        9:30am Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Service
        Hobart10am Sun 18th DecFeaturing the Empty Christmas Tree. Bring an unwrapped gift for donation to City Mission
        9:30am Sun 25th DecChristmas Day Service, continuing the Great Expectations sermons series
        Lenah Valley – “Citywide”10am Sun 25th Dec Christmas Day Service
        Mornington – “Citywide”10am Sun 18th DecChristmas Carol Service
        5:30pm Sat 24th DecChristmas Eve in the Paddock A family time of carols crafts and games in the paddock behind Citywide
        10am Sun 25th Dec Christmas Day Service

        Read More ReCharge

        Deep Thought Dec 2022 The Change Makers by Melissa Lipsett BWA
        How Did we Do in 2022? From the Mission and Leadership Team
        CROSSOVER Christmas Resources Helping Baptists share Jesus at Christmas
        AROUND THE CHURCHES November 2022 Find out what’s been going on!
        ANNUAL ASSEMBLY Anthea Maynard reports
        FAMINE In the Horn of Africa Be Informed by Baptist World Aid

        NEWS: November 2022 | December 2022

        DOWNLOAD Recent Issues of ReCharg

        Subscribe to reCharge Here!

        Keeping you updated with Tasmanian Baptists latest PRAYER, STORIES and NEWS

        We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

        Tasmanian Baptist Christmas Events 2022

        Posted on

        ReCharge NEWS December 2022

        ReCharge NEWS December 2022

        14th December 2022 | ReCharge News December 2022

        Click Item to Read

          UPDATE YOUR DIARY!

          Tas Baptist Dates, 2023

          NB: The dates published in the TB Handbook 2022 have been updated, as below

          DATEEVENT
          10-11 FebruaryNO LIMITS Women’s Conference. See Below
          20 FebruaryPastors and Leaders Muster, Hobart Find Out
          25 MarchTas Baptist Council
          9 AprilEaster Sunday
          5-6 MayMid-Year Assembly, Newstead
          17 JuneTas Baptist Council
          11-13 July Pastors and Leaders Muster, Northwest Find Out
          23 SeptemberTas Baptist Council
          12 SeptemberPastors and Leaders Muster, Launceston Find Out
          20-21 OctoberAnnual Assembly, Riverlands Longford
          18 NovemberTas Baptist Council

          EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH THEOLOGY

          Women’s Symposium

          This symposium is for women who are interested in what the Bible teaches about women.

          HOSTED BY
          Baptist Women of the Pacific
          Please contact Jenny Baxter to join the Tasmanian cohort: jenny@tasbaptists.org.au
          WHEN?
          10-11 February 2023, Friday evening and all-day Saturday.|
          WHERE?
          Riverlife Baptist Church, 47 Jennifer St, Seventeen Miles Rocks, Qld
          SPEAKERS?
          Dr Christa McKirland; Marg Mowcsko; Rev. Megan Powell du Toit; Rev. Sela Havili
          Find out more about the speakers

          A CAROL OF HOPE IN THE MIDST OF DESPAIR

          I Heard the Bells movie

          Christmas is not always merry. Indeed, the season’s festivities can make some people’s despair feel particularly bitter.

          This was the case for Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, one of America’s best-loved poets of the 19th century – and the subject of a new film I Heard the Bells, to be released in select Australian cinemas on 1 December.

          READ more about it > (Eternity News)

          BOOK tickets (Hobart and Launceston): iheardthebellsmovie.com.au

          WATCH the trailer, below.

          STEPHEN ATKINS – CHRISTMAS OUTREACH

          A Christmas Concert

          Beauty Point, Launceston, Smithton, Devonport

          Stephen Atkins Christmas, TB News December 2022

          BETTER WORLD GIFTS

          Baptist World Aid

          Sick and tired of giving trinkets to people who already have everything? Why not give a Better World Gift instead!

          Better World Gifts do much more than meet immediate needs like clean water, food, health and income. They allow people to live with dignity. They can also end poverty, not just for individuals, but for whole communities.

          Better World Gift ideas, ReCharge NEWS December 2022

          These are gifts that give hope.

          Each gift you give supports the community-driven work, run by BWA’s Christian partners.

          It’s about making a bigger, lasting difference by helping individuals and families develop long-term livelihoods, health, education and leadership skills . . . and that’s a big picture!’

          You will help end poverty, thanks to the lasting impact of your Better World Gifts, along with the wonderful work of people on the ground.

          NEED HELP?

          Visit the Gift Generator HERE > Everything is supplied to help you pick the perfect gift card and make a difference on behalf of your loved one.

          The range includes physical gift items for your friends and family (eg. tote bags, journals, colouring books). As well as gifts to give to communities who need your help (eg. chickens, blankets, emergency shelter)  

          Help is supplied so you can select the perfect gift
          Filter for age group, passions/interests, global region and price range.ad ReCharge

          CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

          Love Out Loud Kids’ Videos

          Love Out Loud is a Christian charity, established to produce Christian videos for kids everywhere!

          Featuring 100 videos of 25 minutes duration on the Love Out Loud fresh new website. Lessons are designed to be streamed into a} School Scripture Lessons, b) Kid’s Church, or c) for Parents at home to use with their family.

          All content is available on the website and is 100% free for home and church use. YOU WILL ENJOY …

          • 30 videos for 6-year-olds
          • 30 videos for 9-yeay-olds
          • 40 videos for 11-12-year-olds

          HOW TO SIGN UP

          • Visit the website www.loveoutloudoz.com
          • Click on the ‘SIGN UP’ button in the top bar to subscribe to a plan.
          • Enter your details and follow the prompts to complete your registration.
          • Click on the activation link in the confirmation email to verify your account.
          • You are now logged in and can access the lessons by clicking on the ‘lessons’ button in the top bar.
          • You can edit your profile and update or cancel your subscription by clicking on the ‘My Account’ button in the top bar, followed by the ‘Edit Profile’ button.

          The lessons are free for home and church use.

          WATCH A LESSON NOW!

          Click to watch “All About Heaven” (23 minutes)

          Read Nov/Dec ReCharge

          November/December 2022

          Christmas Events Tasmanian Baptist churches celebrate! (from 14th December)
          Deep Thought Dec 2022 The Change Makers by Melissa Lipsett BWA
          How Did we Do in 2022? From the Mission and Leadership Team
          CROSSOVER Christmas Resources Helping Baptists share Jesus at Christmas
          AROUND THE CHURCHES November 2022 Find out what’s been going on!
          ANNUAL ASSEMBLY Anthea Maynard reports
          FAMINE In the Horn of Africa Be Informed by Baptist World Aid

          NEWS: November 2022

          DOWNLOAD Recent Issues of ReCharge

          recharge-news-september-2022

          Subscribe to reCharge Here!

          Keeping you updated with Tasmanian Baptists latest PRAYER, STORIES and NEWS

          We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

          ReCharge News December 2022