Category: Heartlands News

Quarterly e-news from EmpowHer – an activity of Tasmanian Baptist Women. EmpowHer aims to create a network of women growing and encouraging each other in their God-given potential.

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EmpowHer Day of Courage

Day of Courage 2023, All women are welcome to this special women's gathering, the EmpowHer Day of Courage on Saturday 18th November 2023 at Riverlands Longford.

Women’s Gathering

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Click/tap to speed-scroll)
    REGISTER HERE

    Become Well-Grounded

    Learn to live out your God-given potential at this special women’s gathering

    On Saturday 18th November, all women are invited to attend the EmpowHer Day of Courage gathering at Riverlands, 159 Wellington Street, Longford.

    This is the first statewide event to be hosted by EmpowHer and promises to be a fantastic day of growth, challenge and connection.

    The day will commence with morning tea at 9:30am, and conclude at 3:30pm.

    Watch the video introducing keynote speaker Karen Wilson

    Registration

    Earlybird $45 – finished on 5th September

    Regular $55 – 6th September to 31st October

    Late $65 – 1 November until maximum capacity reached

    Major sponsor for the Day of Courage – Baptist Financial Services

    Baptist Financial Services
    REGISTER HERE

    What to expect

    Here’s what will happen on the day . . .

    Keynote speaker sessions
    Karen Wilson

    Karen Wilson, President Baptist World Alliance Women.
    Karen lives in Perth WA, and has a long association with women from all walks of life in Australia and globally.

    READ Karen’s article It’s a New Day >

    Local content and participation

    Including . . .

    Kelsea

    * Kelsea Clingeleffer, Program Coordinator Baptist World Aid.

    * Short talks from four Tasmanian women explaining their personal moments of courage.

    * Beautiful, delicious and thoughtfully-prepared food during morning tea and lunch.

    * Round table discussions in small groups.

    supporting women globally

    * Pray for women overseas for World Day of Prayer.

    * Opportunity to attend the Tasmanian launch of the global Women’s Leadership Network.

    * Opportunities to donate to Baptist World Aid through Transform Aid International and/or Baptist World Alliance Women

    Why you should be there

    • To be encouraged and inspired.
    • To hear stories from other women of faith.
    • To make new friends with other like-minded women.
    • To be inspired and empowered to live out your God-given calling.
    • To take a day out for yourself to be nourished in body, soul and spirit.
    • To increase your global awareness of women’s challenges in other countries.
    • To increase your faith as you pray for women and their work within their communities.

    What women are saying

    “All women welcome”. I love that. Let’s be united!

    Ruth Hanlon, Ministry Development Officer for Women, Anglican Diocese Tasmania

    I can’t wait to be there!

    Jing Priest, Hobart Baptist Church

    We’re going to have such a good time.

    Keynote speaker Karen Wilson, President Baptist World Alliance, Women

    Registrations

    BOOK EARLY, NUMBERS ARE LIMITED!

    Once maximum capacity is reached there will be a wait-list system in place.

    Earlybird rate ($45) Finished onTuesday 5th September

    Regular rate ($55) Available 6th September to 30th October

    Late rate ($65) Available from 1st November until maximum capacity is reached.

    REGISTER HERE

    The Day of Courage Team

    The organising team are a dedicated group of women, representing each region in Tasmania. They are planning a fantastic women’s gathering just for you!

    Each one has special giftings and skills in enabling, gathering and administrating events, and they are all working hard to create an exceptional day for every attendee.

    North

    Jenna Blackwell

    Jenna Blackwell City Baptist Formation Pastor; Tasmanian Baptists Mission and Leadership Coach
    Jenna loves encouraging people to walk courageously in their God-given calling. She also loves tea, funny animal videos, the beach, and nature in general.

    Wendy Marston

    Wendy Marston TasRail – Customer Service Officer; Tas Baptist Council; Marriage and Funeral Celebrant.

    Wendy is Tassie born and still loving it here. She is involved in the leadership team at Newstead Baptist church.

    Northwest

    Gabe Fife

    Gabe Fife Teacher’s Aide, Leighlands Christian School

    Down-to-earth and friendly, Gabe desires to see all women empowered and living their fullest lives in Christ. She is married to Louis, and serves alongside him at Ulverstone Baptist Church.

    South

    Jenny Baxter

    Jenny Baxter State Coordinator EmpowHer; Communications Manager Tasmanian Baptists
    Jenny enjoys creating connections between women locally and nationally. She also serves on the Communications team at Hobart Baptist Church, and walks a lot, mostly at the beach or in the bush.

    Ann Herbert

    Ann Herbert* Now retired
    Ann formerly managed a social policy team in the Tasmanian Government. She is now an elder and active member of the teaching team at Citywide Baptist Church. 

    *Unfortunately, Ann is unable to attend on the day.

    FAQ for the Day of Courage women’s gathering

    Will there be accommodation available?

    We have secured Friday night accommodation (17th November) with the Poatina Chalet for attendees. This is a 20-minute drive from the venue.
    Please call or email the Chalet to book your motel room for $125. Includes breakfast.
    6397 8290 | poatina.chalet@fusion.org.au

    I have dietary requirements, what should I do?

    If you added your dietary requirements to your registration info, then you are good to go. But if you need to change or confirm anything, please get in touch: empowher@tasbaptists.org.au

    Can I carpool?

    There is no official Day of Courage carpool. However, do get in touch and we may be able to arrange transport for you with another attendee: empowher@tasbaptists.org.au

    What’s the parking like at Riverlands?

    There is plenty of on-site parking available.

    Will I need to bring anything?

    Notebooks and pens will be provided. You may like to bring a Bible with you. Morning tea and lunch will be provided as part of the registration cost. While water will be available you may like to bring your own drink bottle.

    Is Childcare provided?

    Unfortunately no. If you have children, we encourage you to find care for them. If this is not possible, you may bring your little one/s but you will be responsible for their care. There will be no child care available at this event.

    Is this event just for Christians?

    All women are welcome at this event. However, if you are not happy to learn about your God-given potential, then this gathering may not be for you.

    Is there a concession rate?

    There is no official concession rate for this gathering. We have subsidised the costs by finding a sponsor to make this special day affordable for everyone. However, if the cost is stopping you from attending, please get in touch to discuss: empowher@tasbaptists.org.au

    Refund Policy

    If you find you are no longer able to use your ticket, our preference is that you find someone to pass the ticket onto. Please let us know, so we know who to expect by contacting jenna@tasbaptists.org.au

    If you are unable to find someone, or if this is too difficult for you to arrange, given the circumstances, we can arrange a refund. Please note you will not be reimbursed your booking fee.

    If you need to request a refund, please email jenna@tasbaptists.org.au and state your name, account name, BSB and account number. Thank you

    If you have other questions . . .

    Please email empowher@tasbaptists.org.au. Our team will be happy to answer your enquiries.

    Read More reCharge!

    August/September 2023

    DOWNLOAD 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.

    Empowher Day of Courage Women’s Gathering

    All women are welcome to this special women’s gathering, the EmpowHer Day of Courage on Saturday 18th November 2023 at Riverlands Longford.

    Posted on

    Heartlands Winter 2023

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

    SUBSCRIBE HERE
    Table of Contents

      FOR ALL WOMEN

      EmpowHer Day of Courage

      REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!

      Karen Wilson

      Saturday 18th November 2023 | Riverlands Baptist (Longford)

      Speaker: Karen Wilson, President of the Baptist World Alliance Women, and CEO of the Global Leadership Network Aus/NZ.

      Join the EmpowHer team and women from around the state as we gather for the Day of Courage. This will be a 21st-Century gathering (not a Conference!)

      THEME: Well Grounded | Postcards now available to invite your friends!

      INFO AND REGISTRATIONS
      Day of Courage

      NEW-LOOK WOMEN’S MINISTRY

      The end for
      Australian Baptist Women

      Jenny Baxter

      Did you know Australian Baptist Women has been ‘a thing’ since the 1930s? But as all things begin, so all things must end.

      By EmpowHer State Leader Jenny Baxter

      READ WHAT HAPPENED
      Australian Baptist Women ends

      TUNING INTO THE HEART OF GOD

      Being Transformed

      Jenna Blackwell

      Jenna Blackwell, a member of the Tasmanian Baptists’ Mission and Leadership Development Team, gives insight into God’s amazing heart of grace.

      Inner Critic: Why don’t you have everything together?
      Jesus’ gentle voice: Did you hear about the disciples I chose?

      READ MORE
      Tuning in to the Heart of God-Jun23

      BEING WELL-GROUNDED

      Villain-Origin Story?

      or Testimony in Progress

      As the EmpowHer Day of Courage nears, Heartlands News will feature some deeper thinking articles for readers to press into the idea of being “Well-Grounded”.

      Maddie Mandall (Queensland Baptist Women) writes: If we allow our wounds to fester, they end up driving us and defining us in monstrous ways.

      READ MORE
      Heartlands Winter 2023, Villain Origin story, or Testimony in the making?

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

      SUBSCRIBE HERE
      SUBSCRIBE HERE
      EmpowHer

      Heartlands Winter 2023

      Posted on

      Australian Baptist Women Ends

      Australian Baptist Women ends
      Heartlands News

      Tasmanian State Leader Jenny Baxter explains why Australian Baptist Women began, and how things have changed.

      In the early days in Tasmania, there were some heroic women who led the ministry in during the depression when cars were still few, telephones a luxury item, and most communication was done by mail!

      Setting the scene

      Australian Baptist Women (ABW) has been an entity since the 1930s. When the national body began, it aimed to provide opportunities for Baptist women to gather and connect. ABW was formed separately to the infant Australian Baptist Ministries, which began a few years earlier in 1926.

      Nationally, ABW State leaders were appointed. This handful of women oversaw the ministry in each state and territory, gathering annually until 2020. Around that time, independent of one another, the states/territories gradually ceased those positions, with the exception of Northern Territory, Queensland and Tasmania.

      20th-Century ministry?

      No thanks!

      After over a decade with no Tasmanian leader, I was appointed in 2017. By then, many Tasmanian Baptist women’s ministries had wound down. I soon discovered there was little appetite for returning to 20th Century-style women’s ministry.

      Nationally, things were moving. Covid disrupted plans for the ABW national meeting in 2021, and then came a series of online discussions, think-tanks and brainstorms. But nothing seemed to fly. The question was: How do we continue to support Baptist women, when state Unions are less inclined to appoint ABW state leaders?

      THE QUESTION: How do we continue to support Baptist women, when state Unions are less inclined to appoint ABW state leaders?

      Moving onto 2023

      Mark Wilson

      In May this year, the National Council Taskforce gathered in Sydney. There was intense and robust discussion about women and women’s ministry. However, good decisions were made.

      Soon afterwards, National Ministries Director Mark Wison, made an official announcement.

      As a result of this announcement, ABW officially ceased to exist:

      The clear decision of National Council is that ABW, as a delegated body, is not the desired way forward for the State Leaders and National Council Taskforce. This decision is due to a number of factors including lack of agreement on purpose/scope, lack of buy-in from state associations [unions], changing understandings of needs and the inconsistency with how other delegated bodies operate. National Council has a desire to bring this group to an end well and recognises there might be different responses from current ABW group members. Some may feel disappointed or hurt, others relieved or even excited about the change.

      Mark Wilson continued …

      I want to affirm that this in no way says National Council is not committed to developing and supporting women leaders . . . National Council is creating a new delegated body, specifically focused on Women in Leadership. This is a new group and will involve representatives appointed by each state association [union].

      What does this mean for us?

      In God’s goodness, we Tasmanians were ahead of the curve!

      Since 2021 a statewide team consisting of Wendy Marston (Newstead), Jenna Blackwell (City, Launceston), Gabe Fife (Ulverstone), and myself (Hobart) have met, mostly on Zoom (and very rarely in-person!)

      EmpowHer became our new name.

      EmpowHer Team Sept 2021
      The EmpowHer Team: Jenna, Jenny, Wendy, Gabe (Sept 2021)

      EmpowHer Vision:

      A network of women growing and encouraging each other in their God-given potential.

      EmpowHer Mission:

      Providing community, training, and support for Tasmanian women to empower them to move into leadership, and to take their God-given place within the Baptist churches of Tasmania.

      I look forward to this new era as we further develop EmpowHer.
      Here is what’s happening next …

      Day of Courage

      The Day of Courage in November will be the first statewide event in this new paradigm. We are looking forward to hosting as many women as possible at Riverlnds (Longford). All women are welcome!

      Women’s National Taskforce

      I will also work with the National Taskforce to help develop the newly delegated body, focussing on women in leadership.

      The team and I value your prayers as we lead and encourage women around Tasmania.

      Jenny Baxter

      Jenny Baxter
      State Director, EmpowHer
      jenny@tasbaptists.org.au

      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

        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

          Heartlands Spring 2022

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

          Table of Contents

            Diary Dates

            Check the details on these events by scrolling down.
            Have you subscribed to Heartlands to find out about events in your region?

            • Pro-Tip: DOWNLOAD invitations to invite your friends by email, or print some for your church, or another group.

            DAY OF PRAYER, northwest

            DOP NW event 2022

            Ulverstone Baptist
            10am, Saturday 22nd October
            RSVP Mon 17th Oct gabefife@gmail.com

            DOWNLOAD Northwest, Day of Prayer Invite

            DAY OF PRAYER, south

            DOP South event 2022

            Claremont Baptist
            2pm, Saturday 22nd October
            RSVP Sat 15th Oct jenny@tasbaptists.org.au

            DOWNLOAD South, Day of Prayer Invite

            MORNING TEA, northwest

            Morning tea in Latrobe

            Monclair of Latrobe
            10am,Saturday 12th November

            DOWNLOAD Morning Tea Invite

            World Women’s Day of Prayer

            Late October/Early November 2022

            World Day of Prayer 2022, Heartlands Spring 2022
            Heartlands Spring 2022, Day of Prayer 2022

            President of Baptist Women of the Pacific Elissa Macpherson explains what the Day of Prayer event is all about.

            This event was launched by the Baptist World Alliance Women over sixty years ago, after World War II had shattered unity between the nations.

            Read More >

            Heartlands Spring 2022

            Action for You

            FOMO or JOMO?

            Do you suffer from FOMO? It is so easy to have a Fear Of Missing Out!

            The Joy of Missing Out, Heartlands Spring 2022
            You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and
            clothed me with joy. Psalm 30:11 (NIV)

            We don’t want to miss out what’s on social media. So we scroll, and keep on scrollinig.

            We don’t want to miss out on that delicious cake or muffin. So we stack the kilos on.

            We don’t want to miss out on that special moment, or this event, or the other big gathering. And in the process wear ourselves out.

            But check this: THERE IS ANOTHER WAY!

            Have you heard of JOMO?

            The “Joy Of Missing Out” is easy too.

            Stop scrolling, and ease your anxious heart.

            Say NO to that cake – and enjoy a slimmer you.

            Take a break from endless commitments, to make some space to rest your body, soul and spirit.

            Instead of being fearful of missing out, choose JOY and relief in taking time out. Today.

            Women Making a Difference

            From one Generation to the Next

            Love Beyond our Backyard

            Heartlands Spring 2022

            Three generations of northwest Baptist women leave a wonderful legacy across the world.

            Sophia Russell recently chatted with three women from the same family from Wynyard: Shirley Wilson, daughter Cindy and granddaughter Kelsea Clingeleffer. Kelsea is the International Programs Coordinator at Baptist World Aid.

            Read More >

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

            SUBSCRIBE HERE
            EmpowHer

            Heartlands Spring 2022

            Posted on

            2022 World Day of Prayer

            World Day of Prayer 2022
            Heartlands News

            Praying for Baptist Women

            14th October – 13th November, 2022

            Women from more than 100 countries will gather around the first week of November for World Day of Prayer. This event was launched by the Baptist World Alliance Women over sixty years ago after World War II had shattered unity between the nations. Once again, this need is as desperate as ever, especially for the many Baptist women in Ukraine and Russia.

            Here in Tasmania, two regional events are planned for Saturday 22nd October.

            • NORTHWEST: 10am, 22nd October at Ulverstone Baptist.
            • SOUTH: 2pm, 22nd October at Claremont Baptist
            PARTICIPATE IN TASMANIAN EVENTS

            Many Papuan women will walk up to three days through the jungle so they can be part of the World Day of Prayer.

            What’s the World Day of Prayer?

            The World Day of Prayer sets aside a time in which women and men pray for their global sisters. The Prayer Guide lists prayer requests from all over the globe, requesting God’s intervention over issues of domestic violence, human trafficking, armed conflict, and areas devastated by natural disasters.

            DOWNLOAD THE PRAYER GUIDE

            Here in the Pacific region, many will gather to be part of this global movement. Over a thousand will gather in Papua, with many women walking up to three days through the jungle so they can be part of the World Day of Prayer.

            Yet, others will gather in churches and homes in Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, PNG, Vanuatu, and Tonga. The Pacific Island have the highest rates of domestic violence in the world so the need for prayer is desperate.

            World Day of Prayer 2022
            L to R: Women pray for our world; Sewing machines, Vanuatu; Day of Prayer 2021; Gardening project, Fiji.

            Financial Support

            As part of the gathering, women will bring a monetary gift which will be used to finance the work of Baptist World Alliance Women, and also our regional branch, Baptist Women of the Pacific. International projects supported by the Baptist World Alliance Women include a women’s outreach in Iraq, a safe shelter for women in Jamaica, and nurses aid training in Myanmar.

            Within our own region, offerings have funded a gardening project which enabled Fijian women to feed their family and community during Covid-19. Purchased sewing machines for women in Vanuatu, and funded literacy programmes for women in the highlands of PNG.

            LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROJECTS | HOST YOUR OWN EVENT

            Elissa Macpherson

            Elissa Macpherson
            President, Baptist Women of the Pacific
            president@bwpacific.org

            WATCH

            Invitation to Day of Prayer by BWA Women Executive Director Merritt Johnston

            Subscribe to Heartlands

            • Check box for your quarterly email

            Posted on

            Love Beyond our Backyard

            Cindy, Shirley Wilson and Kelsea
            Heartlands News

            From Local to Global

            How three generations of Baptist World Aid supporters built a legacy of generosity

            Sophia Russell recently chatted with three women from the same family from Wynyard: Shirley Wilson, daughter Cindy and granddaughter Kelsea Clingeleffer. Kelsea is the International Programs Coordinator at Baptist World Aid.

            “Giving has shaped our lives to bring a perspective way beyond our backyard“

            Shirley Wilson remembers the day she first decided to become a Child Sponsor with Baptist World Aid Australia.

            It was 1977, and she was raising four children, working part time as a nurse, and helping her husband, Graeme, run a small poultry farm in the northwest of Tasmania.

            A guest speaker from Baptist World Aid Australia visited Wynyard Baptist, and spoke about a Child Sponsorship program. He explained that Australians could provide a monthly gift to support the work of Christian Partners working in places like Bangladesh and India. The funding would support children in those countries, helping them build a future free from poverty.

            ‘I decided it would be a good thing,’ Shirley said. ‘I’ve always loved Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:40, “as much as you did to one of the least of these my brethren, you did to me,” and I wanted to put it into practice’.

            A Thrilling Discovery

            After that Sunday, Shirley decided to support Anika*, a Child Partner living in India. Anika was nine years old, which made it easy for Shirley’s similarly aged daughter, Cindy, to connect with her. Cindy was thrilled to discover Anika enjoyed the same things she did—skipping rope, running games, playing outside with friends. But Cindy also learnt that their lives were vastly different.

            ‘It was an interesting education to have insight into somebody else’s world,’ Cindy said. ‘That’s when I started to think outside my own community.’

            ‘It was an interesting education to have insight into somebody else’s world,’ Cindy said.

            Cindy loved exchanging letters with Anika so much, that when she got her first job as a teenager, she used her pocket money to become a Sponsor.

            ‘Mum’s example had a big impact on me,’ she said. ‘We can’t all go overseas, but this is how we can contribute’.

            One Generation, to the Next

            Cindy didn’t stop contributing—even when she married her husband David and they had children of their own. And even when it wasn’t easy. ‘David lost his job about 20 years ago,’ Cindy said. ‘We clung on to our Child Partner for as long as we could, so it was heartbreaking when we couldn’t support him anymore’.

            When David started working again, the first thing they did was ask if their Child Partner was still available to support. ‘I was so happy that he was,’ Cindy said. ‘That made me realise what a big impact our Child Partners had on us.’

            Sponsorship also had a big impact on Cindy’s kids. Her eldest children, Kelsea and Braden, took over a newspaper delivery business as teenagers, and used their earnings to support a Child Partner themselves.

            ‘My mother’s heart sang!’ Cindy recalls. But for Kelsea, raised by big-hearted parents and grandparents who travelled with overseas mission organisations, generosity wasn’t something extraordinary. It was just part of the Christian life.

            Generosity wasn’t something extraordinary. It was just part of the Christian life

            A BIG Perspective

            Kelsea

            ‘I always knew that there were communities that were in different circumstances to mine,’ Kelsea said. ‘In my family, it was normal to see the world as a bigger place, not just to focus on us.’

            This perspective eventually led Kelsea to pursue a career in international community development, spending 22 months in Cambodia with the United Nations Development Program. At the beginning of 2022, she started serving as an International Programs Coordinator at Baptist World Aid. Her role, which focuses on building community resilience and responding to disasters, is a far cry from her paper delivery days. But her heart is the same.

            ‘While it’s easy just to focus on ourselves, God calls us to love our neighbour,’ Kelsea said. ‘That might be the person next door, or it might be someone overseas.’

            Having a Heart that Rubs Off

            Today, Shirley, Cindy and Kelsea still call the northwest coast of Tasmania home. And they continue their legacy of generosity. Shirley’s home is full of gifts she’s crafted for children in need overseas—girl’s skirts, doll clothes, toy hedgehogs made from old scarves. She’s still supporting children, now with friends from Wynyard Baptist Church. And she couldn’t be prouder of her granddaughter Kelsea.

            ‘You always hope that having a heart for others rubs off on your kids, and their kids,’ Shirley said. ‘It’s pleasing to know that we can make a difference to someone else’s life.”

            Cindy, who is still part of Baptist World Aid’s Child sponsorship program, agrees. ‘We’re not meant to live as islands,’ she said. ‘As Christians, we’re called to live in community and support each other, even across the globe’.

            *not her real name

            Sophia Russell is the wife of a minister, mum of two children and the communication specialist at Baptist World Aid.

            Read Heartlands, Spring 2022

            Read ReCharge

            August/September 2022

            Disaster Strikes Floods in Pakistan – Baptist World Aid
            Around the Churches News and events statewide
            Ministry Profile Ben Cochrane, Somerset
            Deep Thought 21st Century Mission by Laurie Rowston
            From Andrew Turner of Crossover Census Overview
            Stand Sunday 2022 Make a stand for foster carers ~ During September
            Church Profile Claremont Baptist
            From the MLT Achieving Lasting Social Change

            August 2022 NEWS
            July 2022 NEWS


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            Love Beyond our Backyard

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            HEARTLANDS News Winter 2022

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

            Table of Contents

              Diary Dates

              Check the details on these events by scrolling down.
              Have you subscribed to Heartlands to find out about events in your region?

              • Fri/Sat 24/25 June SOUTH Shelter Retreat – read the overview!
              • Sunday 31st July NORTH Cosy Cuppa, Chat & Craft at Westbury Baptist
              • Saturday 17th September NORTHWEST Coffee and Walk, Latrobe
              • Late Oct/Early Nov World Women’s Day Of Prayer – events across the state

              OVERVIEW: SHELTER Retreat

              Southern Event

              FRI/SAT 24-25 June 2022, Blackmans Bay

              How the Shelter retreat weekend unfolded

              OUR THEME: SHELTER …

              Shelter Retreat, Heartlands Autumn 2022

              Everyone needs it. God provides it. We sleep, eat and live in it.

              But how do you live in the SHELTER of the Most High God?

              “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
              will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”

              Psalm 91:1

              Overview of the SHELTER Retreat

              Denise Stephenson and Jenny Baxter
              Denise and Jenny
              • The retreat was led by Denise Stephenson (LifeWay) and Jenny Baxter (Hobart)
              • A rejuvenating literal Sabbath, from sundown Friday until sundown Saturday
              • Delicious home-cooked meals, in an intimate setting
              • Great connection with old and new friends
              • Amazing harp music – live and in-person!
              • Times of input, plus silence and reflection
              • Creative activities to keep minds focussed, and hands busy
              • A trip to the beach to explore and reflect
              • Private counselling and prayer opportunities
              • A real sense of God’s SHELTER in this busy world

              Denise and Jenny are available to run similar women’s retreats in other parts of Tasmania.

              To express interest please contact Jenny at empowher@tasbaptists.org.au

              What’s Coming Up?

              Pig Island Walk, Latrobe

              Northwestern Event

              10:30am Saturday 17th September
              Pig Island Walk with EmpowHer, Sept 2022

              Invite Others! Download Brochure

              Join a friendly leisurely walk at Pig Island Latrobe on the Mersey River.

              Continue with coffee at at Monclair of Latrobe and Madame M Cafe.

              All women welcome!

              RSVP or MORE INFO:

              Gabrielle – 0421 434 138

              International Women’s Day of Prayer

              Late October/Early November 2022

              This year there will be Day of Prayer events held in the north, northwest and south of Tasmnia as we pray toether and raise funds for Baptist women working on some amazing projects in developing countries.

              Subscribe to HEARTLANDS to find out details of these events as they come to hand!

              Cosy Cuppa, Chat & Craft

              Northern Event – NOW OVER!

              2:30PM, SUNday 31st JULY 2022

              Invite Others! Download brochure

              Come along for a cuppa and craft at Westbury Baptist for a relaxed afternoon together.

              We will be joined by special guests Maria Hutchison (Newstead) and Lacey Holloway (Westbury).

              RSVP or MORE INFO:

              Jenna – 0488 330 390; Belinda – 0408 267 188 | Or via our Facebook group: EmpowHer (North)

              Action for You

              Invite someone along

              Have you noticed that not everyone is back yet?

              Winter walk at the beach
              We all need each other!

              Post-Covid hesitancy is a thing. Maybe it’s because people are reluctant to move out of their houses and safe spaces. Or maybe we got used to managing on our own.

              Whatever the reason, it’s true to say we all need each other. Being part of a community is critical to good mental and emotional health.

              Whether or not you are wary about getting back into circulation, why not ask a friend to come with you? That could be as simple as going for a walk together on the beach, grabbing a coffee at a local café, or heading off to the gym or church together.

              Or maybe you could invite someone to one of the EmpowHer events lined up in your region.

              It’s a good time to be the blessing!

              God’s Whisper

              It’s so easy to think up your own answer to a problem. Instead, remember to listen for God’s still, quiet voice.

              By Jenny Baxter

              Too many people and not enough food!
              How many times have you been caught in that situation? I have to admit, I’ve been there a few times. Tiny servings of apple crumble, and thinned-down pumpkin soup have featured on my table, much to my horror.

              Read More >

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

              SUBSCRIBE HERE
              EmpowHer
              Posted on

              God’s Whisper

              God's Whisper

              Waiting for that still, quiet voice …

              God’s Whisper

              Heartlands News

              It’s so easy to think up your own answer to a problem.

              By Jenny Baxter

              Too many people and not enough food! How many times have you been in that situation? I have to admit, I’ve been caught with that a few times. Very small servings of apple crumble, and thinned-down pumpkin soup have featured on my table, much to my horror.

              Have you noticed how we usually try to solve problems using our own nicely thought up solutions? That’s what the disciples did in this story when Jesus gave them an out-of-the-box response . . .

              By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. Send the people away so they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” But he answered, “You give them something to eat.” Mark 6:35-36 (NIV)

              When faced with catering for 5,000, they suggested the crowds go find their own food. They were providing the obvious, most expedient and rational solution to quite a large problem. It was an immediate response – they didn’t stop to consider Jesus may have a far more creative solution sitting in the background. I have to admit, small servings of apple crumble was my best solution one wintry evening.

              Just like the disciples, when I faced a problem, I automatically turned my mind to solving it. However, sometimes there is a way ahead which I did not expect nor plan. It is at those points of dire need, when things seem to have fallen apart, that miracles happen.

              The BEST Plan?

              It’s so easy to think up your own answer to a problem, and to look at it from a human perspective. To gather information and to analyse the best course of action – the most sensible path. Yep. Small serves!

              To the disciples, they suggested what seemed to be the best plan. But did they come to the Master with the problem? No. It took Andrew, another of the disciples, to offer a different course of action.

              … Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” John 6:7-9 (NIV)

              The unexpected extra in this scenario was one young boy with some dinner!

              What a thoughtful and aware mother he had. There’s no mention of her in the story, but I bet she never even dreamt that the food she sent with her son was to be used for a miracle. Just as well she let her son go off to listen to Jesus that day – with food.

              I wonder what my unexpected extra might have been if I had thought to come to Jesus with my apple crumble problem?

              Learnings for us

              • Sometimes our nicely thought-out solutions leave little room for God to work.
              • Creative answers will mostly come from unexpected sources. Perhaps it is wise to listen for God’s whisper before acting.
              • Miracles always arrive when there is hardly any hope left. While we often ask for miracles, actually, requiring a miracle is a terrible position to be in!
              • God’s capacity far, far exceeds our capacity.
              • Mothers (and women in general) are often good at thinking ahead. Maybe I could have thought ahead a bit more with those apples.
              • HOPE is always an option when Jesus is in the equation.

              So, if you are facing a difficult problem – from scheduling issues and lack of resources; to financial hang-ups and not enough dessert – the best idea is to pray and wait for God’s still, small voice (see 1 Kings 19:12).

              Rushing around and stressing about the outcome is usually a waste of time.

              I wonder what would happen if you listened first, and then acted, whenever there was a difficulty? What would it mean for your family, your workplace and your friendships? Not to mention your meals?

              If you listen to God’s whisper, perhaps you will find an unexpected solution, outside-the-box.

              Jenny Baxter

              Jenny Baxter is the State Director for EmpowHer*, and the Communications Manager for Tasmanian Baptists. She is married to Stephen, and they have five children and four grandkids, spread from Hobart to Melbourne to Madrid!   

              * EmpowHer is an activity of Tasmanian Baptist Women

              Read more about EMPOWHER – Tasmanian Baptist Women’s Ministry

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