reCharge Archives - Page 8 of 14

28 February 202325 April 2023

Deep Thought March 2023

Deep Thought – A bi-monthly feature in reCharge

Being Family Together

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

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

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

Faith and passion

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

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

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

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

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

Today’s challenge

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

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

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

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

Being family together

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

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
John 13:35 (NIV)

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

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

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

More Deep Thought

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

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Getting to Know You Franz Brosch, Associate Pastor at Wynyard
Around the Churches, Feb/Mar 2023 Community engagement from Marrawah to Mornington!
Generations of Legacy Perth Baptist Church Profile
No Limits Women’s Symposium REPORT by Ann Herbert
Marrawah Baptist Closes It was a grand finale! By Dan Evenhuis
GOD and Life in Tasmania From the Mission Director, Stephen Baxter
Walk the World Lifeway win Baptist Mission Australia award
NEWS: February 2023 | March 2023

Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

Being Family Together

22 February 202325 April 2023

NO LIMITS Women’s Symposium

Women in Leadership

Encouraging Women

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

Inspiring, challenging, thought-provoking, impactful!

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

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

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

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

Historical and cultural contexts

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

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

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

Bible survey with a twist

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

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

Empowered women

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

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

Responses to the No Limits women’s symposium

Inspired

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

Tracey Avery, City Baptist

Encouraging

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

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

Authentic

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

Dr Christa McKirland – conference speaker

Blessed with new birth

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

Jenny Baxter, State Director Tasmanian Baptist Women

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

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

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

No Limits Women’s Symposium

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Getting to Know You Franz Brosch, Associate Pastor at Wynyard
Around the Churches, Feb/Mar 2023 Community engagement from Marrawah to Mornington!
Generations of Legacy Perth Baptist Church Profile
Deep Thought March 2023 by Dr Christa McKirland, Carey Baptist College, Auckland
Marrawah Baptist Closes It was a grand finale!
GOD and Life in Tasmania From the Mission Director, Stephen Baxter
Walk the World Lifeway win Baptist Mission Australia award
NEWS: February 2023 | March 2023

Printable (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

22 February 202325 April 2023

ReCharge NEWS February 2023

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

22nd February 2023 | ReCharge News

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ReCharge News February 2023

Raising Funds for Ukraine

YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE

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

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

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

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

You can donate to this amazing initiative here: GoFundMe.

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

Walk this Way – Newstead

FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHORT WALKS

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

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

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

Office Secretary at Newstead

POSITION VACANT

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

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

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

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

Türkiye and Syria Crisis

BAPTIST WORLD AID RESPONDS

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

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

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

What we know so far

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

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

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

Celebrating Capacity Workshop

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

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

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

Fostering Hope
Northern Mentoring Officer

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

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

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

Applications close on 24^th February 2023.

Find out more >

Northern Mentoring Office, Fostering Hope Tasmania

Aboriginal Sunday 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Paul Dare speaking; Citywide gathered at the Domain amphitheater.

Spiritual Care Coordinator

Baptcare Hiring!

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

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

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

DOWNLOAD position description >

ReCharge News February 2023

Marrawah Thanksgiving Service

Sunday 5th February 2023

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

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

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

All welcome to share food, stories and memories

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

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

Thanksgiving Service

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

Marrawah’s Grand Finale

Celebration, thanks and farewell

By Dan Evenhuis

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

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

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

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

Thanksgiving Service at Marrawah, 5 Feb 2023 - people began to gather early for the pre-service cuppa

Marrawah Baptist 5 Feb 2023 - a delicious morning tea was served before the servcie began

Thanksgiving Service at Marrawah Baptist 5 Feb 2023 - the building was packed!

5 Feb 2023 - speakers at the Thanksgiving morning

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

Seventy Years of Service

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Around the Churches, Feb/Mar 2023 Community engagement from Marrawah to Mornington!
Deep Thought March 2023 by Dr Christa McKirland, Carey Baptist College, Auckland
No Limits Women’s Symposium REPORT by Ann Herbert
Marrawah Baptist Closes It was a grand finale!
GOD and Life in Tasmania From the Mission Director, Stephen Baxter
Walk the World Lifeway win Baptist Mission Australia award
NEWS: February 2023 | March 2023

Printable (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

Thanksgiving Service at Marrawah Baptist

8 February 202325 April 2023

GOD and Life in Tasmania

Fresh wind blow, Tas Baptists, Stephen Baxter writes

Changing Landscape

Noticing the Deep Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fresh wind, B L O W

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

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

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

Stephen Baxter
Mission Director
Tasmanian Baptists

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

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Around the Churches, Feb/Mar 2023 Community engagement from Marrawah to Mornington!
Deep Thought March 2023 by Dr Christa McKirland, Carey Baptist College, Auckland
No Limits Women’s Symposium REPORT by Ann Herbert
Marrawah Baptist Closes It was a grand finale!
Walk the World Lifeway win Baptist Mission Australia award
NEWS: February 2023 | March 2023

Printable (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

God and Life in Tasmania

1 February 202325 April 2023

Walk the World Winners!

Walk the World = Baptist Mission Australia

Baptists At Our Best

Congratulations Lifeway Baptist

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

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

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

Jenny Mountney of Lifeway Baptist explains what happened.

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

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

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

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

Watch Lifeway’s video report

Excited responses

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

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

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

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

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Around the Churches, Feb/Mar 2023 Community engagement from Marrawah to Mornington!
Deep Thought March 2023 by Dr Christa McKirland, Carey Baptist College, Auckland
No Limits Women’s Symposium REPORT by Ann Herbert
Marrawah Baptist Closes It was a grand finale!
GOD and Life in Tasmania From the Mission Director, Stephen Baxter
NEWS: February 2023 | March 2023

Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

Walk the World Winners

14 December 202222 February 2023

ReCharge NEWS December 2022

14th December 2022 | ReCharge News December 2022

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UPDATE YOUR DIARY!

Tas Baptist Dates, 2023

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

DATE	EVENT
10-11 February	NO LIMITS Women’s Conference. See Below
20 February	Pastors and Leaders Muster, Hobart Find Out
25 March	Tas Baptist Council
9 April	Easter Sunday
5-6 May	Mid-Year Assembly, Newstead
17 June	Tas Baptist Council
11-13 July	Pastors and Leaders Muster, Northwest Find Out
23 September	Tas Baptist Council
12 September	Pastors and Leaders Muster, Launceston Find Out
20-21 October	Annual Assembly, Riverlands Longford
18 November	Tas Baptist Council

EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH THEOLOGY

Women’s Symposium

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

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

A CAROL OF HOPE IN THE MIDST OF DESPAIR

I Heard the Bells movie

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

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

READ more about it > (Eternity News)

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

WATCH the trailer, below.

STEPHEN ATKINS – CHRISTMAS OUTREACH

A Christmas Concert

Beauty Point, Launceston, Smithton, Devonport

Stephen Atkins Christmas, TB News December 2022

BETTER WORLD GIFTS

Baptist World Aid

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

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

Better World Gift ideas,
ReCharge NEWS December 2022

These are gifts that give hope.

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

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

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

NEED HELP?

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

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

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

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

Love Out Loud Kids’ Videos

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

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

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

30 videos for 6-year-olds
30 videos for 9-yeay-olds
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Click to watch “All About Heaven” (23 minutes)

Read Nov/Dec ReCharge

November/December 2022

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

NEWS: November 2022

DOWNLOAD Recent Issues of ReCharge

recharge-news-september-2022

ReCharge News December 2022

14 December 20227 March 2024

Download ReCharge 2022

DOWNLOAD RECHARGE 2022

FORWARD! reCharge 2023

N.B. The printed version is a very basic document (the email is prettier!)
Weekly prayer points are NOT included in the printed version
Contact the Tas Baptist office if you prefer your ReCharge is printed and mailed to you:
info@tsbaptists.org.au OR (03) 6391 2202
SUBSCRIBE BELOW to receive the email version

1. FEBRUARY 2022

Booklet> 9MB / 4 pages (A4, or A3 for larger text)
Non-Booklet > 5MB / 8 pages (double-sided A4)

2. MARCH/APRIL 2022

Booklet > 15MB / 11 pages (A4, or A3 for larger text)
Non-booklet A4 version > 2MB / 23 pages (double-sided A4)

3. MAY/JUNE 2022

Booklet > 12.5MB / 11 pages (A4, or A3 for larger text)
Non-booklet > 2.3MB / 22 pages (double-sided A4)

4. JULY/AUGUST 2022

Booklet > 11.3MB / 10 pages (A4, or A3 for larger text)
Non-booklet A4 version > 4.5MB / 20 pages (double-sided A4)

5. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022

Booklet > 8MB / 10 pages (A4, or A3 for larger text)
Non-booklet A4 version > 5MB / 20 pages (double-sided A4)

6. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

Booklet > 7.5MB / 7 pages (A4, or A3 for larger text)
Non-booklet A4 version > 2.8MB / 14 pages (double-sided A4)

7 December 202222 February 2023

Deep Thought December 2022

Self-help group in Bangladesh; change makers

Pictured Above: A self-help group meets

Deep Thought – A bi-monthly feature in ReCharge

The Change Makers

Melissa Lipsett, CEO Baptist World Aid, explains the impact of women empowered to change their world.

It’s illegal, but 40 per cent of girls in Nepal are married before they turn 18, and seven per cent before they turn 15. The Nepalese government is hoping to eradicate child marriage by 2030, but is this even possible? Will this ever change?

I believe it will. Here’s why

I recently returned from Kapilvastu in West Nepal. It’s a region that has major development challenges and a general lack of adequate services. For example, there are no toilet facilities or running water in people’s homes. There are few opportunities for people to generate income and, sadly, high levels of gender-based violence and child marriage.

The challenges are overwhelming, but here’s the thing: communities ARE overcoming them. Baptist World Aid works with local Christian Partners who share our belief in the dignity, value and equality of all people (Gen 1:26-27).

Our Partners bring the locals together in community groups, and it’s the locals who lead the transformation of their communities. Ninety per cent of these community leaders are women. They’re known as self-help groups, and they’re courageously changing their world.

Our Partners bring the locals together in community groups, and it’s the locals who lead the transformation of their communities.

What self-help groups do

Working as a committee, with elected positions such a chairperson and treasurer, members collaborate to make the changes they want to see in their community. These women showed me how they had depolluted their pond and water source.

Some of them have started small businesses. And I heard stories of how they confronted perpetrators of domestic violence as a commanding group of 17! I saw leadership, determination and courage from the same people who were, until recently, considered less than their husbands, brothers and sons.

"Kumari" Self-help group Nepal, change makers

Emerging from poverty

Every one of these women, these “change makers”, has a story. Many were married as children and didn’t have the opportunity to go to school. Quite a few are now mothers, surrounded by little people with constant needs that are hard to meet. In the past they might have given a daughter in marriage to ensure she—and her remaining siblings—would survive.

But the gains they’ve made in emerging from poverty means they now say, ‘No more! We will not allow our daughters to suffer as we did’. And they mean it.

‘No more! We will not allow our daughters to suffer as we did’.

As I travelled through the area, it was evident that wherever poverty was effectively diminished, girls were in school.

One extraordinary facet of these self-help groups is that are made up of traditionally antagonistic social groupings, but there is no infighting. They are too busy changing the world.

I wonder if what would happen if we were too?

Melissa Lipsett is the CEO of Baptist World Aid

More Deep Thought, 2022

The Sound of Silence by Denise Stephenson
A Change in Thinking for Changing Times by Laurie Rowston
Courage to Make a Difference by Mark Wilson
Just Mercy by Michael Henderson
On Becoming Wise Elders by Mike Frost

Read ReCharge

November/December 2022

Christmas Events Tasmanian Baptist churches celebrate! (from 14th December)
How did we do in 2022? From the Mission Leadership Team
CHRISTMAS IDEAS For Baptists from Crossover
AROUND THE CHURCHES November 2022
ANNUAL ASSEMBLY Report by Anthea Maynard
NEWS: November 2022 | December 2022

Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

Change Makers

30 November 202222 February 2023

How Did We Do in 2022?

Leadership and Growth

Wins for Tasmanian Baptists

During 2022, the Mission and Leadership Development Team were very busy, supporting Tasmanian Baptist churches.

So … how are Tas Baptists going? Read on to find out.

Click for a MaLD Reflection

Mission Director

STEPHEN BAXTER

On the Front Foot

As I look forward to 2023 it is with great hope and with a deep sense that significant challenging times lie ahead of us. These challenges are reflected in the significant change to the religious landscape of Tasmania over the past 20 years.

The latest Census figures show how those nominating as “Christian” has dropped from 69.9% in 2001 to 38.4% in 2021; and over the same period, those nominating as “no religion/secular belief” has risen from 17.2% to 49.9%.
In the five years between the 2016 and the 2021 Census, those of “no religion/secular belief” overtook “Christian” as the largest religious grouping.

This is such a dramatic change, I’m sure I cannot fully appreciate what it means for our mission and ministry. Nevertheless, I’m convinced God has been preparing us for this moment.

God has been preparing us for this moment. Stephen Baxter
How did We Do in 2022?

How Tasmanian Baptists are responding

These changes have not caught us by surprise. More than a decade ago we deliberately embarked on transitioning to become a mission-shaped movement. More recently, our focus has been on building a team of new generation pastoral leaders. Although there is still more to do, we are making significant gains.

So, where to from here?

The Tas Baptist Council is currently in the middle of a review. They want to listen to our churches in this moment, and hear from God, to clarify our next steps. It is hoped a report will be ready to present to next year’s Mid-year Assembly in May.

My encouragement to us all is the words God spoke to Joshua, “be bold and courageous”.

Given the changing nature of society, complete with some significant economic challenges thrown in, I suspect the years ahead will be quite demanding and tough. Yet, God is with us, and this turns any threat into an opportunity. We are not caught on the backfoot, but are instead progressing with confidence.

So let us move ahead full of faith, hope and love.

Stephen Baxter
stephen@tasbaptists.org.au

Mission And Leadership Development

MICHAEL HENDERSON

Focus on Joy

Every year feels big (and small) when thinking about church, community, and leadership.

It’s like thinking about family. There is no winner. Just the time-period of a year spent sustaining a community, growing leaders, deepening relationships, and dealing with setbacks.

I find it simultaneously rewarding, and challenging. As well, it is easy to let the setbacks dominate any discussion, because they are the easiest to remember.

Which is why at the end of every year I focus on what brought me joy.

Tas Baptist Pastors and LEADERS’ Musters

Courage | Presence | Proximity

I loved our March get together in Hobart, and our discussions on Courage. They set me up for the year in so many ways. I particularly loved our end reflections, and conversations I had with many, as we mutually encouraged one and other.

As the year has gone on, our conversations around Presence (Burnie) and Proximity (Launceston) have felt large. It feels like it is a constant conversation at the moment, where we are calling each other into presence and authenticity.

We are calling each other into presence and authenticity. Michael Henderson
How did We Do in 2022?

It brings me joy to spend time with you.

How we have carried courage, been present, and responded to our calling is something that gives me great hope as we head into 2023.

Blessings and Grace and Peace to you this Christmas.

Michael Henderson
michael@tasbaptists.org.au

Mission And Leadership Coach

JENNA BLACKWELL

God’s Invitation to You

As I reflect on 2022 …

There is a deep, quiet, and joyous sense of gratitude in my spirit about our Tasmanian Baptist community and what God is doing among us.

This year I have had the privilege of noticing an increased sense of team among our pastors, and walking alongside people as they courageously choose to follow God and his ways. I have seen an increase in bravery and vulnerability, understanding of self and of God, and a willingness to listen to and follow the promptings of Holy Spirit.

There is a stirring that God is doing something fresh, and we get to participate and co-create. No doubt there will be more challenges ahead, but what a privilege this is!

God is doing something fresh. Jenna Blackwell.
How did We Do in 2022?

As we turn to 2023 …

I sense an invitation for us to know God better through the presence of Holy Spirit.

There is an invitation to find guidance for better ways of engaging. To find guidance to better engage with our communities and those around us with hospitable love and transformational grace.

I sense courage (bravery + vulnerability) and deep friendships will be integral to leaning into the kingdom of God, with patience and perseverance. I also sense an invitation to lovingly and prophetically speak into younger generations. To pull down the barriers in ourselves and our faith communities as we learn to know God and each other afresh.

Questions for you to ponder …

What is God’s invitation to you for 2023?
What does it look like for you to carve out time to dwell in God’s presence?
Who are the safe people that you can increase vulnerability with?
How can you build relationships with people of different generations?

Jenna Blackwell
jenna@tasbaptists.org.au

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

Read ReCharge

November/December 2022

Christmas Events Tasmanian Baptist churches celebrate! (from 14th December)
Deep Thought Dec 2022 The Change Makers by Melissa Lipsett BWA
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

Printable (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

How did We Do in 2022?

Being Family Together

Faith and passion

Today’s challenge

Being family together

More Deep Thought

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Being Family Together

Encouraging Women

Historical and cultural contexts

Bible survey with a twist

Empowered women

Responses to the No Limits women’s symposium

Inspired

Encouraging

Authentic

Blessed with new birth

No Limits Women’s Symposium

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

ReCharge News February 2023

Raising Funds for Ukraine

Walk this Way – Newstead

Office Secretary at Newstead

Türkiye and Syria Crisis

Celebrating Capacity Workshop

Fostering Hope Northern Mentoring Officer

Aboriginal Sunday 2023

Spiritual Care Coordinator

ReCharge News February 2023

Marrawah Thanksgiving Service

Read More ReCharge!

February 2023

ReCharge News February 2023

Marrawah’s Grand Finale

Celebration, thanks and farewell

Seventy Years of Service

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Thanksgiving Service at Marrawah Baptist

Noticing the Deep Questions

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

Fresh wind, B L O W

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Congratulations Lifeway Baptist

Watch Lifeway’s video report

Excited responses

Read ReCharge

February/March 2023

Walk the World Winners

UPDATE YOUR DIARY!

Tas Baptist Dates, 2023

EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH THEOLOGY

Women’s Symposium

A CAROL OF HOPE IN THE MIDST OF DESPAIR

I Heard the Bells movie

STEPHEN ATKINS – CHRISTMAS OUTREACH

A Christmas Concert

BETTER WORLD GIFTS

Baptist World Aid

NEED HELP?

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

Love Out Loud Kids’ Videos

HOW TO SIGN UP

Read Nov/Dec ReCharge

November/December 2022

ReCharge News December 2022

DOWNLOAD RECHARGE 2022

1. FEBRUARY 2022

2. MARCH/APRIL 2022

3. MAY/JUNE 2022

4. JULY/AUGUST 2022

5. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022

6. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

The Change Makers

I believe it will. Here’s why

What self-help groups do

Emerging from poverty

More Deep Thought, 2022

Fostering Hope
Northern Mentoring Officer