Category: Tasmanian Baptist Blogs

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ReCharge NEWS Feb 2022

Cradle Mountain

FEBRUARY 2022

Table of Contents

    Tamar Island Walk & Picnic

    12:30-2:30 Sunday 27th February

    An EmpowHer* Event

    EmpowHer Tamar Walk 27Feb 2022

    All women are welcome to join the Tamar Island Walk and Picnic, 12:30-2:30pm, Sunday 27th February 2022.

    The Tamar Island walk is a short 4km return boardwalk, just 10 minutes drive from the heart of Launceston.

    It will begin with a BYO picnic. Please also bring a picnic rug &/or chair, as tables are limited.

    This is an all-access walk and children are welcome under your supervision.

    MORE INFO/REGISTER: Wendy 0407 675 414; or Belinda 0408 267 188

    Download Brochure >

    *EmpowHer is an activity of Tasmanian Baptist Women

    Nationwide Prayer Gathering

    Prayer gathering

    Prayer Gathering of Australian Baptists

    Please join your Baptist family at 7:45pm on Tuesday 1st March for a Zoom prayer gathering.

    We will pray for God to work within our lives, our families, our churches, our communities our Baptists partners, our States/Territories, our nation, and our world.

    We especially want to pray for our BaptCare family as they battle COVID outbreaks in aged care facilities, and support exhausted staff.

    As well we will pray for the situation in Myanmar, for the people of Tonga, and for the unfolding situation in the Ukraine.

    REGISTER: bit.ly/ABMpraywithus22 >

    DOWNLOAD Flyer for distribution >

    Leading with Courage – Muster

    For Tas Baptist Pastors and Leaders
    ReCharge News
    At the Muster in September 2021

    WHEN: Lunchtime Monday – Lunchtime Tuesday March 7-8, 2022
    WHERE: Hobart Baptist Church
    WHO: Appointed key leaders of Tasmanian Baptist churches
    WELCOME! It will be a great opportunity to meet newly appointed pastors around the state.

    With great pleasure and expectation, Tasmanian Baptist pastors and key church leaders are invited to the upcoming Pastors’ Muster, 7th-8th March 2022.

    Gathering together as leaders never fails to be a rich time.

    With just 24hrs together, some big conversations will focus on the importance of leading with courage.

    We will create a safe to share with others – a courageous aspect of leadership. For this reason, only pastors, and leaders of churches without a pastor, have received invitations.

    MAKE SURE YOU REGISTER!
    If you are missing your invite email please contact jenna@tasbaptists.org.au

    Recent Inductions

    Exciting times for Tasmanian Baptist Churches

    It has been an unprecedented few weeks, as five pastors were inducted during January and February, 2022. They are Dan Hutchison (Newstead), Matt Henderson (Hobart), Liam Conway (Riverlands); Jeff Percival (Lower Barrington); and Dan Evenhuis (Citywide).

    • Dan Evenhuis, ReCharge news
      Dan Evenhuis at Citywide
    • Evenhuis Family being prayed for
    • Laim Conway, ReCharge News
      Liam and Hannah Conway at Riverlands
    • Jeff and Ann Percival with their daughter Anitra, and Stephen Baxter at Lwr Barrington
    • Jeff Percival, ReCharge News
      Jeff Percival, preaching at Lwr Barrington
    • Daniel Hutchison, ReCharge News
      Daniel Hutchison at Newstead
    • Matt Henderson, ReCharge News
      Matt and Kylie Henderson at Hobart
    Welcome LIAM AND HANNAH!
    New Associate Pastor for Riverlands

    Liam Conway joined Riverlands Christian Community as Associate Pastor and was inducted by Maddy Svoboda at Riverlands on 6th February 2022.  The service was followed by a BBQ lunch.  A very special morning, it was wonderful to see many visitors who came in support of both Liam and Hannah, as they join the Riverlands family. 

    Please pray Liam and Hannah will settle in well with the Riverlands church family, but also the wider community of Longford. 

    Safer Spaces Toolkit

    Australian Baptist Ministries pull together to create a great resource

    Sunflowers, ReCharge News

    In 2021, ABM recognised domestic abuse resources are often available only by region, and wanted to create a resource which could be accessed by any pastor anywhere, with access to the Internet. The outcome is now available as a resource for use in localities across Australia.

    Baptist women from around the country made up the project working group. Between them, they have expertise in pastoral leadership, theology, teaching, domestic abuse and project management.

    Together they created the Safer Spaces Toolkit: standagainstdv.net >

    The Safer Spaces Toolkit is a work in progress so feedback and suggestions are welcome. To get in touch, send an email using the CONTACT PAGE >

    GLOBAL LAUNCH: 16th Feb
    Baptist Mission Australia

    You are Invited!

    5-6PM, WEDNESDAY 16TH FEBRUARY 2022
    Scott Pilgrim, GIA to BMA, ReCharge News

    Global Interaction has become Baptist Mission Australia

    One of the nation’s oldest mission organisations has changed its name as it looks to strengthen its partnership with Baptist churches across Australia and international partners around the globe.

    Executive Director Scott Pilgrim (pictured) invites you to the GLOBAL LAUNCH!

    This is your invitation to join with teams around the
    world to dedicate this year of ministry to God.
    Together we will pray, commission our teams
    and say, “Come Holy Spirit”.

    REGISTER TO RECEIVE THE ZOOM LINK:

    REGISTER

    Newstead Farewells Marion Sherriff

    27 July 1935 – 16 January 2022

    Ted and Marion Sherriff

    Marion was born on the 27th July 1935, and went peacefully to be with her Lord on the 16th January 2022. She spent over 70 years of her life living in Launceston in the suburb of Newstead, as a child and then for most of her married life.

    Marion was farewelled on the 21st January from Newstead Baptist.

    Marion and her sisters attended Newstead Baptist where they attended Sunday School, Camps and Church. It was there that Marion came to a faith and belief in Jesus Christ as her Saviour. At Newstead, she also met Edward Humphrey ‘Ted’ Sherriff and they married in the church on the 26th May, 1956. Ted later became the President of the Baptist Union of Tasmania.

    Marion loved God in a deep and personal way. She loved God’s Word, the Bible. Coming to church, for Marion, meant learning about God, meeting with God, and singing together to rejoicing with God’s people. It brought her happiness and gave her strength through life’s sorrows and disappointments.

    Added to family duties of raising four children, Marion was a faithful member at Newstead Baptist for over 60 years serving through Sunday School Teaching, Christian Endeavour, the Missionary Committee, Ladies’ Meetings like Homemakers and Baptist Women’s Fellowship, Chat’n’Choose creche co-ordinator, hospitality and more.

    Marion will be sadly missed by her ‘loved’ Ted, and many family members. We know that she is now at peace and in no pain with her Lord.

    Christian Life & Witness Courses

    Training to sharpen your evangelism skills

    WHEN: 21st February to 12th March 2022
    WHERE: In various churches in the Launceston and Hobart regions, including Baptist churches in Westbury, Perth, Launceston (Gateway), George Town and Hobart.

    The Christian Life and Witness Course helps believers deepen their faith in Jesus Christ and share Him with others. Specifically, during the Tasmania Celebration with Will Graham in May 2022. But also, on their own as they witness to friends, family members and co-workers.

    During the two-hour/week, three-week course, participants will learn:

    • Biblical principles on living a life that pleases God and points other people to Him.
    • Practical tips and advice about sharing Jesus Christ with people who do not yet know Him.
    • How to best support new Christians and help them grow in their faith.

    Check out dates, times and locations > | tasmaniacelebration.org.au

    Tasmanian Baptist Key Dates, 2022

    Dates for your Diary
    Some participants at Tasmanian Baptists Annual Assembly 2021; ReCharge News
    Some attendees at Assembly, Oct 2021

    7-8 March 2022                Pastors’ Muster in Hobart                             

    26 March 2022                 Council Meeting              

    6-7 May 2022                    Mid-Year Assembly at Riverlands       

    18 June 2022                    Council Meeting

    26-27 July 2022               Musters: Regional with PM sessions

    10 September 2022        Council Meeting

    3-5 October 2022             Muster: Pastors and Families

    28-29 October 2022        Annual Assembly at Riverlands

    19 November 2022          Council Meeting

    LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH!

    We’d love to keep you updated with our weekly email, reCharge Prayer | Stories | News 🙏

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    Tasmanian Baptists’ Theme for 2022

    (en)COURAGE

    It takes courage to take hold of Reengaging, Reimagining and Realigning

    By Mission Director, Stephen Baxter

    2022 is upon us, but it in Tasmania, it hasn’t been the easiest of beginnings.

    Jenny and I were blessed to attend our daughter’s wedding in Spain in late December. While we were away, Tasmania’s borders opened for the first time in 18 months, paving the way for the COVID virus to re-enter our state.

    (en)Courage Wedding photo
    AJ and, our daughter, Alice, with their parents. It was an Australian-Nigerian event!

    By the time we returned home in the first week of January, so much had changed. Mandatory mask-wearing had become the norm, and a careful hesitancy by people meant our streets and shops felt somewhat empty.

    Tasmanian churches changed over that time too. Facemasks are now mandatory for church services, although it has been the norm for many around the world for quite a while. Not surprisingly, attendance numbers are down as many, for various rational reasons, have chosen to stay home preferring online services instead.

    God’s promise to us

    It is no understatement to say we live in trying times — for both our communities and our churches. Yet, it is in such a time like this, that God promises not to leave us but to be with us. In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul says God is the “Father of compassion and the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our troubles”. We are all thankful for that.

    May God comfort you amid all the disruption and uncertainty you are experiencing at the moment.

    This is a prayer we can pray for ourselves and each other. It is certainly my prayer for you. May God comfort you amid all the disruption and uncertainty you are experiencing at the moment.

    I also pray God will use this time to continue the transformation process for all of our churches. The Bible is full of times when God has used difficulties, struggle, and even suffering, to renew the people of God.

    Whether it was the wilderness experience of the Israelites fleeing Egypt for the Promised Land, or their exile experience in Babylon, or the persecution of the church in the early days by the Roman Empire, God is always at work in times such as these. Indeed, for Jews and Christians at all times, God never wastes hard times. Comfort and renewal are at work side-by-side. I trust that is true for us too.

    Reengage | Reimagine | Realign (en)Courage

    Three critical words

    In 2021 at our May Assembly, we endorsed our new strategic plan which included three key strategies: to Reengage, Reimagine and Realign.

    These words are designed to help us understand and commit to what we sense God is doing among us –

    • To reengage with the mission of God in our communities,
    • To reimagine what church might look like as we take seriously that we are to be salt and light in our communities, and
    • To realign the resources of our churches and union to enable us to be the church God calls us to be.

    It seems to me that God is using this “COVID-moment” to help move us along the transformation path as expressed in our 3 Rs (Reengage, Reimagine and Realign). If that is correct, we can be comforted God is at work amid the challenges. And our response should be a resounding “Yes” to cooperate with God in this transformational work.

    I’m not suggesting this is easy. It takes courage to say “Yes” to God.  

    It takes courage to trust, and courage to keep going. It takes courage to accept God’s compassion and God’s comfort. It takes courage to live with and open heart. It takes courage to love, accept and forgive. And it can take courage to comfort others. As Paul goes on to say, God comforts us, “so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” (1 Corinthians 1:4).

    (en)Courage one another

    Our theme for 2022 is (en)Courage.

    It is an encouragement to take courage, to embrace what God is doing amongst us, and to receive God’s comfort at this time. All with a view to not just receiving courage, it but passing it on into our communities.

    We’ll share more about this in the months ahead. But in the meantime, this is my prayer for you, and I trust we may pray it for each other:

    Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ
    (1 Corinthians 1:3-5).
    Stephen Baxter

    Stephen Baxter
    Mission Director, Tasmanian Baptists
    stephen@tasbaptists.org.au

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    George Town Baptist Church

    George Town Baptist church building
    Church Profile

    Keeping Hope Alive

    George Town Baptist Church is like many of our regional fellowships. They hold onto hope for the future, in fellowship with other churches in the area. Pastor Bob Goolsby reflects on this faithful fellowship, taking the opportunity to chat to a few of the George Town Baptist members.

    George Town Baptist worship

    There has been a Baptist Church in George Town since circa 1958. Technically, we count our establishment in 1961, so we had an uncelebrated 60th anniversary last year. We are going to have a commemoration service as soon as we think Covid conditions will allow it – might as well do it right!

    When Sylvie and I arrived in George Town, we decided to look for a church to attend. The Baptist Church was small, and the first Sunday we tried to attend, they were in a service with the Uniting and Anglican Churches off premises. When we finally attended, we met a church that had heroically survived without a pastor for about eight years. Anne Godman and Pauline Heppel were keeping hope alive.

    Then Anne moved to New Zealand, leaving Pauline to handle things on her own. It was not just the Baptist Church. Every church in George Town suffered declining membership and attendance during those years, but it was particularly hard to overcome the lack of a pastor. Graeme Goninon was the last pastor of record. He was loved and regarded highly by all. He left in 2010.

    George Town Baptist Church history

    George Town Baptist Church

    Location, contact details and meeting times >> >

    Better Days

    Faith Millen George Town long-standing member
    Faith Millen

    Faith Millen is a faithful member who arrived in George Town from England in 1972. She recalled the better days of the church, including the years in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s when the Baptist Church had over 40 children in Sunday School, and a vibrant youth group.

    But times change, and as always, the church must re-evaluate the way it interfaces with the world around us. (I owe much of the information about the past to Faith, and Dawn Leslie, both of whom are serving as Deacons.)

    Let’s press in

    Sylvie and I did not move to George Town to take on a church, but it seemed to be “manifest destiny”. Since that time, we have made progress in reaching new people in town. Pre-Covid, things were looking up. These days we have had to retool, like everyone else. Nevertheless, all we know to do is press in.

    We saw a youth ministry start, which struggled along for a while. Lately we have had an increase in attendance at the once-a-month youth meeting, which we find very exciting. Our visitation program is allowing us to become acquainted throughout the area, making friends in high places and in low ones, too.

    The church is working with the Salvo’s to help collect food for needy people; the Seafarer’s Mission to find ways to touch people who work on the ships that come into the local harbor; and Vinnie’s, where we participate in a community meal served at the local Catholic fellowship hall.

    Path to growth ahead

    When you are small, there are so many things you want to do, but simply cannot, because the money or the resources are not there. We are asking ourselves the same question Elisha asked a needy widow, “What do we have in our house?” If we present it, God can use it.

    Thus the saying “One sows and another reaps” is true.

    John 4:37

    We are growing, albeit slowly, as God brings people in. Some we reached out to in the past, and others who simply found their way to us. No matter whether our evangelistic efforts are the key, or simply continuing to be “open for business” to serve and help equip those the Lord is calling, we believe in “one sows, another waters, but God gives the increase” (John 4:36-38).

    Current member Peter Gross wrote the following, that sums up our current position quite well:

    I am a retired engineer, living in the George Town – Low Head area for 16 years. I started at the Baptist Church two years ago and have enjoyed worship and fellowship with others who love the Lord and long to see others find new life in Him.

    Peter Gross
    Peter Gross

    Like the other churches in George Town, we are small in number but work well together in sharing times of combined worship, Bible study, outreach and building relationships with the community. As a smaller fellowship many of us wear several hats, but it is great to have the opportunity to explore our gifts and abilities in both spiritual and practical ways.

    Bob and Sylvie have shown great dedication and leadership in challenging us to reach beyond our comfort zone to serve the Lord and honour Him in worship and applying the Word to our lives.

    Making Him known

    We are also blessed to have long-standing members who have served the Lord faithfully at George Town Baptist for many decades. Their commitment to knowing the Lord and making Him known is a continuing challenge to all of us, including a youngster like me.

    Speaking for established, but numerically challenged Churches of Tasmania, I recall the parable of the fig tree in the vineyard. Rather than cut it down, the vinedresser (Jesus in parable form) asked for some time to give it special attention, fertilizer and time.

    Obviously the first task is to secure viability. After that is accomplished, become influencers in the community. As a great leader once said, “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care”.

    From that standpoint, we at George Town Baptist feel we are well situated to face the future.

    Bob Goolsby, George Town Baptist Church
    Pastor Bob Goolsby

    Originally from Calvary Temple in Eastern Illinois, USA, Bob Goolsby and Sylvie have pastored at George Town Baptist since 2019.

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    ADVANCE November/December 2021

    Advance step by step NovDec 2021
    Request Print Version via Mail
    DOWNLOAD ADVANCE , Nov/Dec 2021

    This is the final Tasmanian Baptist ADVANCE | step by step

    A new publication, Re-Charge, is now available

    SUBSCRIBE TO RE-CHARGE

    Please note: All previous subscribers to ADVANCE automatically receive ReCharge

    Keep scrolling for the ADVANCE Nov/Dec 2021, Online

    No. 1: 4th November 2021
    ADVANCE November/December 2021 No. 1
    No. 2: 18th November 2021
    ADVANCE November/December 2021 No. 2
    No. 3: 2nd DECmber 2021
    ADVANCE November/December 2021 No. 3
    DOWNLOAD ADVANCE, Nov/Dec 2021
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    Progress at City Baptist (Launceston)

    City Baptist sells, 2021
    Advance Header

    community engagement:

    City have Signed to Sell

    The progress at City Baptist is monumental! They signed a contract to sell the property in early September. There will be an eight-to-twelve month period of settlement.

    The leadership is finalising the criteria needed for a new property and the market is being closely followed.

    Anthea Maynard and Jenna Blackwell meet weekly with Jeff McKinnon to ‘dream’ and pray what the Makeover of City could potentially entail as we seek to be an intergenerational faith community culturally appropriate for young adults.

    Jeff, Jenna, Anthea
    Jeff McKinnon, Jenna Blackwell, Anthea Maynard

    Street Community

    The church and the city were rocked by the tragic accidental death of street person who lived on our property.  

    Stephen Avery

    150 people attended Daniel Tommerup’s memorial service at City Baptist. Street chaplain, Stephen Avery (pictured) continues to play a crucial role amongst some of the most vulnerable people in Launceston.

    Kay Hunter is heading up an attempt to increase desperately needed accommodation for women and children fleeing domestic violence.

    Hazara Gardens

    A slideshow is shown, below, on the development of extensive vegetable gardens by City Baptist Church, Launceston, since 2018.

    These gardens are primarily for the Hazara people, Muslim refugees originally from Afghanistan.

    This project is only possible because of volunteers from the church, coordinated by Sally Staley;  a setting-up grant from Baptcare; and in partnership with the Worldview Centre at St Leonards.

    Jeff McKinnon, Pastor City Baptist (Launceston)

    • Child digging: Progress at City Baptist (Launceston)
      Child digging
    • Garden beds: Progress at City Baptist (Launceston)
      Garden beds
    • Buidling greenhouse: Progress at City Baptist (Launceston)
      Building the greenhouse
    • Inside greenhouse: Progress at City Baptist (Launceston)
      Inside the greenhouse
    • Working in greenhouse: Progress at City Baptist (Launceston)
      Working in the greenhouse
    • Sandpit: Progress at City Baptist (Launceston)
      Sandpit
    • Shed play area: Progress at City Baptist (Launceston)
      Shed play area
    • Having a break at the Hazara Gardens: Progress at City Baptist (Launceston)
      Having a break!

    READ MORE IN THE NOV/DEC 2021 ADVANCE | STEP BY STEP

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    Tasmanian Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast, 2021

    Tasmanian Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast 2021
    Advance Header

    prayer for the state:

    Wednesday 24th November, Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart

    This year’s Tasmanian Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast brought together like-minded people from across Tasmania to pray for our State, our leaders, parliamentarians, businesses, schools, communities, and community organisations; our families, youth, and children.

    Over 400 people attended this, the 16th annual Tasmanian Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast. It was attended by Church and business leaders, aid agency representatives, and many other Christians from across the state.

    A record number of State and Federal politicians attended, 26 out of a possible 40. This included the Premier Peter Gutwein, the Deputy Premier Jeremy Rockliff, and Leader of the Opposition Bec White. Jacquie Petrusma MP welcomed all as the Parliamentary Host.

    Tasmania’s Young People

    Prof. Patrick Parkinson speaks at the Tasmanian Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast 2021
    Prof. Patrick Parkinson

    The breakfast was chaired by Stephen Baxter (Tas Baptist Mission Director), who oversees the TPPB organising committee. The newly formed Calvin School Choir, pictured below, performed for those gathered.

    Prof. Patrick Parkinson, the speaker at the recent Tasmanian Baptist Annual Assembly, gave an overview of some of his achievements. He spoke about the care and nurture of young people in Tasmania, and presented some concerning statistics. Having suffered childhood abuse, and his current blended family, he spoke into those numbers with heart-warming vulnerability and authority.

    Framing

    Stephen Baxter

    As usual, Stephen Baxter gave a very insightful framing to begin the morning. It is reproduced here for you . . .

    Let me take a moment to explain why I believe we are here.

    We gather in the name and spirit of Jesus to pray for our state and its people. From the oldest to the youngest, those doing well and those not so well, those who lead and those who serve.

    Across this room we are a rich and diverse tapestry of culture, experience, outlook and belief, believers and non-believers alike. We do life together on this magnificent island, Tasmania – lutruwita. We are wrapped in the world’s purest air, graced with magnificent forests and magical lakes, lined with epic coastlines and surrounded by crystal clear water. It is a slice of heaven. We are truly blessed.

    Yet, our lives, public and private, could be better. Perhaps, more than ever, we are rightly aware of the wrongs of the past, sensitive to racism and injustice, and conscious of the need to care for our environment. But the same time we are distracted by fear and anger. It shapes our lives.

    A damaging polarisation is at work. We see it in the rage and resentment that prioritises victimhood and grievance over community and resilience. We see it in the violence – verbal, written and physical – that seeks to silence the opinions of others. The result sadly, is division, conflict, and animosity, even between good people. And it solves little.

    At the same time, we are losing the art of forgiveness. We dredge up things from someone’s past suggesting it defines them today – conveniently forgetting each of us is more than the worst we have done.

    Some advocate the removal of faith from the public square. They do so unaware that true faith nurtures confession, repentance, and the potential for redemption and restoration. If we are to overcome the significant challenges we face, I am convinced we need to include faith.

    As a spiritual leader I appreciate you might be sceptical. I am deeply aware the Church, in its various forms, has let our community down in so many ways. I know I speak for many when I say I’m sorry.

    Churches are not exempt from the need for confession and repentance. We are always learning and relearning how to follow Jesus. His execution by the authorities of the day, which included the religious, was a brutal form of cancel culture. They did not like what he said so they silenced an innocent man.

    We all can learn from his response. It was not resentment or rage, but a cry, “Father, forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing”. We all need forgiveness. The resurrection of Jesus reveals God is willing to give it.

    Love, acceptance and forgiveness. It’s what holds our lives and families, our communities and our future together. Every day, inconspicuously and unheralded, thousands of Tasmanians just ‘do it’. They don’t seek wealth, power, or fame, but quietly do what needs to be done: lending a hand, sharing a meal, volunteering at emergencies, caring for the forgotten, and courageously standing for what they believe.

    It’s spiritual. It is what lights and sustains the fires of excitement, passion, vision and sacrifice.

    It is the spiritual that will help us learn afresh how to respect one another, how to engage in civil dialogue, and how put aside our differences for the sake of the common good.

    That’s why we come to pray.

    Stephen Baxter, Tasmanian Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast 2021
    Calvin Choir sing at the Tasmanian Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast 2021
    Calvin Choir sing

    READ MORE IN THE NOV/DEC 2021 ADVANCE | STEP BY STEP

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    Tasmanian Baptist Christmas Listing 2021

    Tasmanian Baptist Christmas Listing
    Advance Header

    around the grounds – Christmas 2021:

    Christmas 2021 services, activities and good things happening!

    North

    City Baptist, Launceston

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 6:00pm Sat 11th December Christmas BBQ, Carols and Supper
    • Christmas Day
      • 9:30am Christmas Day Service
    • Boxing Day
      • 10:00am Boxing Day Service

    Newstead

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 6:00pm Sat 18th December, Carols in the neighbourhood
      • 10:00am Sun 19th December, Carols on the Lawn, followed by lunch
      • 7:00pm Fri 24th December, Christmas Eve Service
    • Christmas Day
      • No Christmas Day Service
    • Boxing Day
      • 10:00am Sun 26th December, Sunday Service

    Gateway, Launceston

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 10:00am Sun 12th December, Kidsway Service followed by a free BBQ and activities afterwards
      • 10:00am Sun 19th December, Carol Service
      • 7:00pm Sun 19th December, Combined Carol Service with other churches
    • Christmas Day
      • 9:00-10:00am Christmas Day Service
    • Boxing Day
      • No service on Boxing Day
      • Return to normal services from Sunday 2nd January, 2022

    Summerhill, Launceston

    • Christmas Day
      • 9:30am Christmas Day Service
    • Boxing Day
      • 10:00am Sunday Service as usual

    Riverlands, Longford

    • Pre-Christmas
      • Sat 18th December Community Christmas event in partnership with Christ Church Anglican, Longford at Christ Church
    • Christmas Day
      • 9:00am Christmas Day Service
    • Boxing Day
      • No service

    Perth

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 4:00pm Sat 18th December, Community Children’s Party, followed by a Community BBQ
      • 7:30pm Sat 18th December, Carol Service
    • Christmas Day
      • 10:00am Community Christmas Day Service
    • Boxing Day
      • 10:00am Sunday Service as usual

    Beauty Point

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 5-8pm Sunday 12th Dec, Exeter Community Carols. Entry, although free, needs to be either registered online HERE or available at the “Exeter Visitors Centre’. Exeter Showgrounds.
    • Christmas Day
      • No Christmas Day service
    • Boxing Day
      • 5:00pm Service as usual

    Northwest

    Ulverstone

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 7:00pm Christmas Eve Service “Tell the world”
    • Christmas Day
      • No Christmas Day service at Ulverstone
    • Boxing Day
      • No Boxing Day service at Ulverstone
    Christmas Eve at Ulverstone Tasmanian Baptist Christmas Listing 2021

    Lifeway, Devonport

    Exciting times for Lifeway Baptist at Christmas.

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 6-7pm Christmas Eve: Readings and Carols lead by our very own Exhale Choir. Coffee in the café afterwards.
    • Christmas Day
      • 9:30am Christmas Day Service
    • Boxing Day
      • 9.30am Combined Service at Oldaker Street Christian Centre, 36-38 Oldaker St, Devonport

    Wynyard

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 10:30am Sun 5th December Sunday School Anniversary
      • 10:30am Sun 12th December Celebration Church service for groups connected to the church: Chat ‘n’ Choose; the Walking Group; and the Food Hub GROW GATHER GIVE.
      • Christmas Eve Carols in the Garden (2020 below)
    • Christmas Day
      • Christmas dinner on Christmas Day for those who are alone at this time of the year.
    • Boxing Day
      • 10:30am service as usual
    Wynyard Carols 2021
    Wynyard Carols 2021

    Sassafras

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 10:30am Sun 12th December Sunday School Service
      • 10:30am Sun 19th December Carol Service
    • Christmas Day
      • 9:30am Café Celebration with Martin Luther Lutheran Church Burnie
    • Boxing Day
      • 10:30am Boxing Day Celebration

    Lower Barrington

    • Pre-Christmas
      • Tues 23rd November: We had our Church Christmas dinner at a restaurant. As last year we couldn’t meet due to COVID, 25 of the fellowship enjoyed good food and had a great time of sharing.
      • 10am Sun 19th December Carol Service
    • Christmas Day
      • 9:00am Christmas Service: a short service to allow people to be home to prepare their Christmas lunch or go to friends or relatives to spend time with them.
    • Boxing Day
      • 10:00am Sunday Service as usual

    South

    Citywide, Mornington/Lenah Valley

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 5:30-7:30pm Christmas Eve Christmas in the Paddock at Mornington, 400 Cambridge Road
    • Christmas Day
      • 9:30 Christmas Day Service at Lenah Valley, 2 Pottery Road
      • 3pm Nepalese Christmas Day Celebration at Mornington, 400 Cambridge Road
    CITYWIDE: Christmas Day Service at Lenah Valley
    • Boxing Day
      • 10:00am All services as usual

    Claremont

    • Pre-Christmas
      • 6:30pm Sat 18th December Carol Service
    • Christmas Day
      • 9:30am Christmas Day Service
    • Boxing Day
      • 10:00am Morning Worship
    • January
      • 12:00pm 16 January 2022 Summer Picnic, Tynwald Park, New Norfolk. BYO picnic or BBQ, ALL WELCOME Info: cbctas.org.au | Contact: Jean 0476 528 124

    Hobart

    • Pre-Christmas
      • “Christmas in Summer” sermon series from 12th December
    Christmas 2021 at Hobart Baptist Church
    • Christmas Day
      • 9:30am Christmas Day Service

    READ MORE IN THE NOV/DEC 2021 ADVANCE | STEP BY STEP

    Posted on

    Mary’s First Christmas Ponderings

    Mary’s First Christmas Ponderings, Ray Hawkins
    Advance Header

    poetry:

    By Ray Hawkins, Beauty Point

    Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.

    Luke 2:51
    Mary’s First Christmas Ponderings

Mary pondered so many things in her heart
That very first Christmas day:
Shepherds arrival and delight
As they saw Christ that night
Enthroned in the manger!
Angels’ words they’d relayed
With joy and faith displayed.
The Saviour had been born,
The Bread of Life had come,
As foretold, to Bethlehem.

Mary pondered disturbing things in her heart
That very first Christmas time!
Simeon, one of the prophets,
Stood upon the Temple steps
Speaking words of future things,
The child’s fame through suffering.
Mary’s joy one day would mourn
For this promised one now born.
The Light to the Gentiles had come
As foretold, to Bethlehem.

Mary pondered personal things in her heart
That very first Christmas night!
Anna, a widow of many years
Saw in Him that mercy was here
With a song of thankfulness
Celebrating God’s faithfulness
She shared the news of God’s grace
Which had come to the Human race,
As foretold, to Bethlehem.

Mary pondered so many things in her heart
That very first Christmas morn!
Told that her heart would be pierced
As though by a sword sharp, fierce.
This child, when grown, would be rejected
Though no fault in Him was detected.
Jesus would taste the people’s scorn
By whip, sword and a cross torn,
And yet to triumph, He had come
As foretold, to Bethlehem.

© Raymond N. Hawkins. Dec 2017
    Posted on

    Need to Know

    Mary’s First Christmas Ponderings, Ray Hawkins
    Advance Header

    news Nov-Dec 2021:

    2ND DECEMBER 2021

    Safer Spaces Toolkit

    On 22nd November 2021,  Australian Baptist Ministries (ABM) released the Safer Spaces Toolkit. This is a  resource to address domestic abuse and build relationally healthy communities.

    Safe Spaces toolkit

    The Safer Spaces Toolkit is an endorsed project of Australian Baptist Ministries aimed at resourcing pastors and church leaders to address domestic abuse and build relationally healthy communities.

    The project working group is made up of Baptist women from around the country who have expertise in pastoral leadership, theology, teaching, domestic abuse and project management.

    This project started because ABM recognised that domestic abuse resources were often available only by region, and wanted to create a resource that could be accessed by any pastor anywhere, with access to the Internet.

    The Safer Spaces Toolkit is a work in progress and feedback and suggestions are welcome. To get in touch please send an email via the CONTACT PAGE

    The Safer Spaces Toolkit is available HERE 

    GIA change their name

    GIA become BMA

    Global Interaction have got something exiting to share… they are changing their name! Global Interaction is becoming Baptist Mission Australia.  

    This is not something they undertake lightly. Over the past year they began implementing the 2021-2025 Strategic Roadmap. With this came big questions about the future direction of GIA.

    While listening to the Spirit, they saw it was time to refresh the name and brand for a new and exciting season of ministry.  FIND OUT MORE

    Christmas Poem

    Mary’s First Christmas Ponderings
    Mary's first Christmas ponderings

    A poem by Ray Hawkins of Beauty Point

    READ HERE

    Based on Luke 2:51

    Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.

    READ MORE: NOV/DEC 2021 ADVANCE | step by step

    18th November 2021

    Big Hearted Gifts

    Gifts that end poverty

    Baptist World Aid (BWA) Big Hearted Gifts do much more than meet immediate needs like clean water, food, health and income. At their heart, these gifts are an expression of God’s extraordinary love at work in the world. They allow people to live with dignity, and they end poverty. Not just for individuals, but for whole communities. These are gifts that give hope.

    Each gift 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.

    Thanks to the lasting impact of your Big Hearted Gifts, along with the wonderful work of people on the ground, you help end poverty.

    How it works

    When you select a gift card for a family member or a loved one this Christmas, you’re also making a donation to a community development project. Your tax-deductible donation will fund vital community development projects that include the activity featured on your card.

    • You can give an eCard, a Gift Card (which is mailed to you for your use), or do a last-minute-dash and print your own as a PDF file.
    • Perhaps you need help working out what sort of gift to give? Use the Gift Generator to help you pick the perfect gift card, and make a difference on behalf of your loved one.

    Tasmania Celebration Launch

    Launceston and Hobart moments
    A Time to Dedicate the Outreach Events with Will Graham, in 2022
    Tasmania Celebration Launch, prayer events
    • LAUNCESTON: 6:30-8pm Friday 19th November Door of Hope Christian Church South Launceston
    • HOBART: 6:30-8pm Saturday 20th November C3 Convention Centre South Hobart
    • More info: tasmaniacelebration.org.au
    Tasmania Celebration Launch

    Converge Tasmania 2021

    On the 17th August, 23 Tasmanian Baptist leaders from around the state met in Longford to prepare to speak out for the needs of the global poor, refugees and survivors of domestic violence.

    Our church has been talking for some time about what it means to actively engage in issues of justice in the broader community. Ten of us made it to the Converge conference because we saw when Baptist churches work together in areas like these, we’re much more effective.
    The work the different Baptist agencies have done in putting together the JUSTICE 2021 Report gives us a credibility and tangible way forward we simply could not do on our own.

    Pastor Matt Garvin (Citywide)

    Since then, Tasmanian Baptist teams have visited the local member in each of our five federal electorates, and to as many of our 12 senators as possible as part of Converge 2021. At each meeting they have discussed big issues, and presented each one with a copy of the Australian Baptist Justice 2021 report.

    Check out the slideshow! Below there are photos of only five of the ten visits that took place.

    • Rodney Marshall, Jacinta Sinclair (BaptCare), Brian Mitchell, and Jeff McKinnon.
      Rodney Marshall, Jacinta Sinclair (BaptCare) Brian Mitchell, and Jeff McKinnon
    • Mrs Bridget Archer MP, (Liberal) Member for Bass: Ed Love, Kay Hunter, Bridget Archer (wearing a climate scarf), Maddy Svoboda, Jenna Blackwell, Karlin Love
      Ed Love, Kay Hunter, Bridget Archer (wearing a climate scarf), Maddy Svoboda, Jenna Blackwell, Karlin Love
    • Jono Duniam, Stephen Baxter, Matt Henderson, Liam Conway. With Michael Henderson (photographer)
      Stephen Baxter, Matt Henderson, Liam Conway, and Michael Henderson (behind the camera)
    • Receiving the Australian Baptist Justice 2021 report in Launceston with Jeff McKinnon, Kay Hunter and Stephen Avery
      Jeff McKinnon, Peter Whish Wilson, Kay Hunter and Stephen Avery
    • Kay Hunter, Ed Love, Sen. Helen Polley, Karlin Love, Jeff McKinnon
      Kay Hunter, Ed Love, Sen. Helen Polley, Karlin Love, and Jeff McKinnon
    POLITICIANTEAM
    Mr Brian Mitchell (ALP) Member for LyonsRodney Marshall, Jacinta Sinclair (BaptCare) and Jeff McKinnon
    Mrs Bridget Archer MP, (Lib) Member for BassEd Love, Kay Hunter, Maddy Svoboda, Jenna Blackwell, Karlin Love
    Sen. Jonathon Duniam, (Lib) ClarkStephen Baxter, Matt Henderson, Liam Conway, Michael Henderson
    Sen. Peter Whish Wilson, (Greens) BassJeff McKinnon, Kay Hunter, Stephen Avery
    Sen. Helen Polley, (ALP) BassKay Hunter, Ed Love, Karlin Love, Jeff McKinnon
    Mr Andrew Wilkie MP, (Ind) Member for ClarkMichael Henderson, Stephen Baxter, Liam Conway
    Sen. Anne Urquhart, (ALP) FranklinMichael Henderson and team
    Hon. Julie Collins MP, (ALP) Member for FranklinMatt Garvin and team
    Mr Gavin Pearce MP, (Lib) Member for BraddonNicholas Alexander and team
    Sen. Anne Urquhart, (ALP) Braddon Nicholas Alexander and team
    Converge Tasmania Team visits to Politicians 2021

    READ MORE IN THE NOV/DEC 2021 ADVANCE | step by step

    4th November 2021

    Book Review

    Finding God in Brazil: Personal stories to amaze and inspire
    Author: Dr John B Dyer
    Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, ISBN: 978-1979439817
    Available: $15AUD from Amazon >>>
    Finding God in Brazil; Need to Know Nov-Dec 2021

    Dr Dyer describes this book as a series of stories about his experience of living and working in Brazil over a period of 33 years. His story involves the stories of other people, and both become interwoven into a single fabric.

    I found this book to be easy to read as it written in everyday language without the use of theological jargon. There is humility in Dr Dyer’s sharing. His sense of humour is evident as he tells of the lighter moments of being a missionary in Brazil. Clearly, he has an obvious love for the Brazilian people.

    I am struck by the tenacity of both Dr. Dyer, and his wife Maria. They persevered through many hardships that come with living in a different culture. As well, there are difficulties with many subcultures, and a varied terrain and climate throughout Brazil. They also experienced personal tragedy with their first child being stillborn, and their second child dying 24-hours after birth. There is also adventure and danger. For example, John was hit by a car, and held at gunpoint in his own home!

    A young child is miraculously healed of malaria in an Amazonian rainforest. And also a young man with cancer, given two-years to live in 1985, continues to serve God to this day. Yes, God still performs miracles.

    John describes his book this way; “The aim of the book, written from the perspective of a Christian missionary working in the most remote parts of the country, as well as in some major urban centres, is to show how God is perceived to be involved in our everyday affairs.”

    In my opinion, he has been successful in this aim!

    Karen Buckney

    Karen Buckney, Assistant Administrator
    Tasmanian Baptists

    Faith and the Arts

    FATA22 Online from Poatina, 7-11 January 2022

    Jump on faithandthearts.org.au to check out the amazing range of Electives and Mix It Ups

    Faith and the Arts 2022; Need to Know Nov-Dec 2021

    Faith and the Arts is an awesome annual conference held in Poatina, Tasmania, targeting creatives of all disciplines and skill levels. The aim is “to come together to give time and space to their faith-art journey.” 

    I have always got heaps out of it, both personally and within my creative practices. There are always great speakers, highly skilled teachers, and a heap of fun. I especially appreciate the chance to try practices I am not familiar with.

    This year it is online (Covid! they hope to return to normal in person in 2023). I am leading an afternoon workshop on Monday this year, called “Small Prophetic Art”. Hope to see you there.

    Michael Henderson

    Michael Henderson, Mission and Leadership Development Coordinator
    Tasmanian Baptists

    Ethical Fashion Guide

    Baptist World Aid’s 2021 Ethical Fashion Report finds lingering gaps in wages, sustainability  
    2021 Ethical Fashion Guide; Need to Know Nov-Dec 2021

    People, planet or profit? What’s most important to consumers in purchasing the brands they like?

    Today you can find out. The 2021 Ethical Fashion Guide/Report is now on the Baptist World Aid website, along with some great new features for consumers to communicate directly with brands. This year’s report also explores the impact of COVID on garment workers; slavery/exploitation of all workers in the supply chain; and the environment.

    The grades of the brand companies within the report/guide reflect some progress, but we have a long way to go!

     About the 2021 Ethical Fashion Report   

    With its mission to end poverty, Baptist World Aid Australia has published the Ethical Fashion Report since 2013. As one of Australia’s leading publications on ethical fashion, the Ethical Fashion Report and Guide helps consumers make better choices based on thorough data from almost 100 companies representing more than 400 brands. 

    READ MORE IN THE NOV/DEC 2021 ADVANCE | STEP BY STEP

    Posted on

    The Man (or Woman) in the Mirror

    Man in the mirror (or woman)
    Advance Header

    youth and young adults:

    A Check on your own attitudes and responses to the world. Who is that “Man in the Mirror”?
    By Jenna Blackwell

    Do you listen to Michael Jackson? It can be difficult not to sing along to songs like Beat It, I Want You Back, or Man in the Mirror. A friend recently played a Jackson song as a trivia night question, and while it didn’t create an uproar, it certainly started discussion!

    Not sure what I’m talking about? Welcome to cancel culture – the culture that ‘cancels’ a person, group or organisation due to a conflict in values. It is now at work in our community today.

    Michael Jackson: This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC Man in the Mirror

    Predominantly, it happens when there is a perception of immoral or unethical production, content, or in Jackson’s case, inappropriate behaviour with young people.

    A Growing Awareness

    People in today’s society, especially younger adults, are affected by mistrust, abuse and non-transparency. It may be because of their own experiences or learnt second-hand from the experiences of their parents. It includes the unbridled use of the planet’s resources, often fuelled by greed and unsustainable practices. Young people have an awareness in their hearts of the need for justice, equality, and fairness.

    People in today’s society, especially younger adults, have been affected by mistrust, abuse and non-transparency.

    The rise of clothing companies who value ethical practices and sustainability is a response to the is a concern of many, including the younger generation. This is because consumers boycott companies due to unethical treatment of workers. And more younger adults switch to ethical banks and superannuation funds.

    Recently, our Mission Director, Stephen Baxter wrote, “The challenges facing churches are not due to the Church gone wrong, but a world grown different . . . God uses times like these to reform and renew his Church.”

    Actions Speak Louder

    So, what does this have to do with ministry for children, youth, and young adults?

    These days, character speaks more than competency, and trust must be built and maintained. We have a message that needs to be heard by those who have never heard it, and by those who have heard a different variation of it.

    We have a message that needs to be heard by those who have never heard it. "Man in the Mirror"

    It is a message of hope in Jesus Christ – not just for eternal life, but for transformation, change and love – here and now.

    In these days of cancel culture, when character, integrity and aligning actions speak volumes (and the lack of such speaks even louder), we have a message that needs to be heard.

    Since I started working for Tas Baptists a few years ago, several youth groups have shut down. Two new ones started, but overall, the youth scene has significantly decreased. This is sad and frustrating. And, while I am prone to take responsibility upon myself, we all have a part to play.

    If younger people are willing to pay more for something that has a greater impact, what’s stopping them connecting with the cost of following Jesus?

    Ponder these Points

    As we imagine how to re-engage with younger generations (or any of society), let me present you with some points to ponder:

    • Following Jesus is costly. If younger people are willing to pay more for something that has a greater impact, what’s stopping them connecting with the cost of following Jesus?
      • Is it purely a lack of knowing or hearing? Or is it not being exampled?
      • Is it a lack of trust based on history – how we’ve treated people and the planet?
    • How well do speak of, and example, our Jesus of compassion, mercy, truth and forgiveness?
    • Do we value their voice? Are we too caught up in our well-known and well-loved songs?
    • Quite practically, is our tea and coffee ethically produced and traded? In other words, do we care more about Kingdom values or dollar values?

    Checking that Man in the Mirror

    Two questions for you to consider as you go about your work today, your church meetings and your Bible study. "Man in the Mirror"

    So, I have two questions for you to consider as you go about your work today, your church meetings and your Bible study. Let me challenge you to check yourself in the mirror.

    1. What are you doing with Jesus’ message of hope?

    2. How can you (and your church) share it, and example it, with the young people in your life?

    Maybe today, you can take one small step towards sharing that message of hope with our young people.

    Jenna Blackwell

    Jenna Blackwell was, until recently, overseeing the Baptist youth and young adults’ ministry in Tasmania. She is the Tasmanian Baptists’ Leadership Development Coach, and a member of the AB Next Generations taskforce.
    jenna@tasbaptists.org.au

    READ MORE IN THE NOV/DEC 2021 ADVANCE | STEP BY STEP