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Around the Churches, June-July 2023

Around the Churches June-July 2023

Every two months you can catch up with the latest news in Tasmanian Baptist Churches.

North

RIVERLANDS, LONGFORD

New Youth Group

Every third Friday during term, Riverlands has recently offered a youth group for those in and around the church. The youth group is focused around church-encultured teens and giving them activities through the week.

Our goal is to develop a thriving youth ministry, where the youth can share life and have Christian discipleship. It’s had a strong reception as we’ve gathered together and enjoyed the company of one another whilst playing games, having snacks, and doing small devotions.

Craft at Riverlands Youth Group; Around the Churches June-July2023
Our most recent Riverlands Youth group was a (not very) messy night much to the chagrin and the disappointment of the youth!

Whilst only small we are having a lot of fun and the group is developing well in line with our goals. We would appreciate your prayers and thoughts as we continue to develop the program and its structure.

The youth group has been running in co-operation with the other churches around Launceston where we have been gathering on the Fourth Fridays of the month for larger games, larger connections and better connections between churches and youth in the Launceston and Northern Midlands area.

CITY BAPTIST, Launceston

In the news

Our recent move to the Boathouse Centre received media attention, and, given events in the Southern Baptist scene, they chose to focus on our female leadership. We are enjoying the wonder-inspiring views of the city of Launceston from within our new gathering space, and also creating a partnership with the owners. We are greatly appreciative to Worldview for accommodating us so well during our previous transition.

The Examiner, 18th June 2023; Around the Churches June-July2023
In The Examiner, 18th June 2023

Radical Hospitality

Over the month of June, we focused on the theme of hospitality – the gift of giving and receiving hospitality, and how it can be as simple as a smile. We continue to explore this theme of ‘radically ordinary hospitality’ in practical and life-giving, everyday ways.

The Saturday night drop-in centre meal continues each week, nearing capacity in the new space at Pilgrim Uniting. Stephen Avery’s presence in the street community furthers the connections.

Over July we will look at the theme of Seeds – seeds of faith, hope, justice and love – and how City can help germinate these seeds in the city of Launceston.

The City Seed Community Garden at St Leonards continues to welcome new members.  

Supporting others … in Launceston and beyond

Members of our community hosted a fundraiser afternoon tea and raised $2000 for Betel Ministries in India (Betel International: Break free from drug and alcohol addiction).

Northern Refugee Support continues, with a recent long-awaited breakthrough.

We are also pleased to support outside ministries, such as SU’s upcoming camps, allowing children and families to attend who would otherwise be unable to.

NEWSTEAD

Alpha Underway

We have had a great start to the Alpha course with 24 people attending. Alpha is an evangelistic course which seeks to provide a space to ask questions through a series of talks and discussions. We wil be running Alpha for the next three years, and although this year we planned to first become familiar as a congregation with the course, we are excited to already have cross-over from other ministries during the week.

Week of Prayer and Fasting

It has been very encouraging to hear how many in our congregation during our week of prayer and fasting swapped-out something they loved for precious time in prayer. We had people go without food or a meal, coffee, alcohol, social media, and even the Chase (Aus. and British edition), and instead, spending time praying for our church’s strategic goals, church family prayer points, and our other Baptist churches around Launceston.

Friendship Lunch

We had a great turnout for the Friendship Shortest Day Longest Lunch with the Wentworth room filled with Friends. A delicious selection of BBQ meat and salads for mains, with sweet stuff to follow. Finally, a cake to top it off to celebrate a birthday. Geoff Marston shared on friendship and encouraged ‘’to have a friend; be a friend”. Thanks to the drop-in centre team for a great lunch.

Friendship Lunch; Birthday cake for all! Around the Churches June-July2023
Friendship Lunch; Birthday cake for all!

BEAUTY POINT

New Youth and Children’s Leader

Hold Fast Outreach at The Point Baptist, 23 June to 19 July 2023

The most exciting development for our little church is the induction of our new Youth and Children’s Leader last Sunday.  Dempsey Horton from Texas is our new youth and children’s leader for the next 12 months.

Texan Outreach
Friday 23rd June to Wednesday 19th July

We are midway through our regular Texan Mission, with four Texans visiting for almost four weeks. 

Events include women’s coffee and dessert night, Bible studies for women, men and youth, Primary school youth group, Hope Night and more youth events to come. There will be a holiday kids’ club and five-day basketball skills clinic. 

All events are free and designed to reach the North Tamar population with Hope found in Jesus Christ. If you live nearby you are welcome to attend!

See Info BROCHURE >
OR Contact Rachelle on 0409 272 877

Around the Churches June-July 2023

Northwest

LATROBE

Volunteers Honoured

On Saturday, 20th May, the Latrobe Council presented special awards to volunteers in their community.

Mayor Peter Freshney handed out over 30 awards, and amazingly Latrobe Baptist Church received seven of them!

  1. Latrobe Baptist church for its many community programmes
  2. Latrobe Baptist Chat ‘n’ Choose 
  3. Latrobe Men’s Shed
  4. Glenis Smith – 30 years of volunteer service, Chat ‘n’ Choose 
  5. John Langmaid – 30 years of volunteer service, Chat ‘n’ Choose 
  6. Glad Purdy– 20 years of volunteer service, Chat ‘n’ Choose 
  7. Fay Horne – 20 years of volunteer service, Chat ‘n’ Choose 
  • Award winners at Latrobe Council awards afternoon; Around the Churches June-July 2023
    Award recipients
  • Ralph, award for Latrobe Baptist; Around the Churches June-July 2023
    Ralph on behalf of Latrobe Baptist
  • John and Fay with Chat n Choose award, Latrobe; Around the Churches June-July 2023
    John and Fay, Chat n Choose
  • John and Ralph for Latrobe Mens Shed; Around the Churches June-July 2023
    John and Ralph, Men’s Shed
  • Glenis, 30 years service award with Chat n Choose at Latrobe; Around the Churches June-July 2023
    Glenis, 30 years
  • John, 30 years service award with Chat n Choose at Latrobe; Around the Churches June-July 2023
    John, 30 years
  • Glad, 20 years service award with Chat n Choose at Latrobe; Around the Churches June-July 2023
    Glad, 20 years
  • Fay, 30 years service award with Chat n Choose at Latrobe; Around the Churches June-July 2023
    Fay, 20 years

SASSAFRAS

Winter Service

This annual event is always a success because it  is always so cold and the hot chocolate always so welcome.

The real reason is, of course, to bring to mind that Jesus is the light of the world John 8:10, “Ï am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life”.

A few Sunday School children play their part by reciting a relevant poem they wrote and sing a children’s hymn. As always Cathy, Ruth and Max lead and inspire.

This event is always the simple reflection of children, though lead by adults, it is always a real blessing to us all, in the pews!  Some of the hymns we sung were ” Showers of blessing”, “The Light of the World” and “Jeus bids us shine”. The inspiring message was from Ben Hallam followed by the three “S’s”, Soup, Sandwiches and Savouries!

Every one left the service fed in “Body, Mind, and Spirit!” It was great.

Winter Service at Sassafras Baptist
Winter Service at Sassafras

SHEFFIELD

Vale Mrs  Beverly Duff

On 3rd June, the Lord called home to glory Mrs Beverly Duff who was a stalwart of the Sheffield Baptist church for over seventy five years. Mrs. Duff (nee Irvine) was baptised in 1947, and from that time took an active part in the church.

 In 1953 she married Bruce Duff, and together  they played a major role in the Church. In the late 1970’s  Mrs Duff became church organist. She played for both the morning and evening services, as well as playing for funerals and weddings in the Sheffield Baptist church.  As  well, she often  played for the West Kentish and Paradise churches. 

When then church commenced our monthly fellowship teas and singing your favourite hymns in 2005,  Beverly played until  ill-health took its toll.

Mrs Duff  was actively involved in the Ladies group, and was a keen supporter of the overseas missionary work of the church. She loved CWA and craft  groups, and was a highly respected lady in the Kentish community.

Mrs Duff was truly a fine Christian  lady who is now resting in the everlasting arms of her Saviour. The Sheffield  Baptist church extends to Stephanie, Ashley, brother Desmond and their families our deepest sympathy.

WYNYARD

SUPPORTING OTHERS

Our church continues to support two children, Tithi and Rafin, through Baptist World Aid with the proceeds of our cappuccino sales on Sunday mornings.

JUST BLOKES

This is a quarterly gathering of men from the community when they enjoy a pizza and an interesting speaker. Greg White who  works in the engineering department at Caterpillar was the speaker in June.

JUST GIRLS

The girls met recently for fellowship where they were able to enjoy some Filipino food. The afternoon was spent making a fridge magnet with Beth and Kester.

Wynyard Baptist Church

ULVERSTONE

Mother’s Day

Inviting our friends, mothers, daughters, sisters, and aunties, our UBC ladies enjoyed an evening out dining at Café RA. After our Mother’s Day service, and to honour the women in our midst, our UBC men provided morning tea. This was a bake-off competition from which we have now discovered we have a number of very capable and talented cooks at UBC! Prizes were awarded to Matt Cox for his macarons, Robbie Cunningham for his savory toast and Andrew Gurr for his apple cakes.

May Mission Month

May Mission Month was embraced as we listened and were challenged by guest speakers Paul Manning from Baptist World Aid, and Geoff Maddock from Baptist Mission Australia

Table Tennis

Our winter table tennis competition has once again commenced on Monday evenings with 27 registered players. Table tennis at UBC has been running for about 40 years.

Men’s events

Our recent Men’s Events have included go-karting, indoor cricket, a men’s breakfast, and an evening of carpet bowls and pizza. These events have been well attended by a variety of ages and has been a wonderful opportunity to reach out, encourage and strengthen relationships.

Dylan Standridge

In June we were privileged to spend an evening with Dylan Standridge. Dylan partners with Iris Global Ministries, he has a heart for Tasmania and has a prophetic call upon his life.

Home to Glory

Our church family have mourned the passing of three dear ladies and sisters in Christ.

 Nalda King passed away on 19th March aged 85.  Margaret McCall passed away on 18th June aged 94, and Pauline Beasley passed away on 22nd of June. Our thoughts and prayers continue for their families.

Around the Churches June-July 2023

South

CITYWIDE

Special Service

On Sunday 11 June we had a special combined service which included several aspects:

  • Four Baptisms – what a delight to hear the testimonies and share in the faith journey of 4 people.  As a result another person gave their life to the Lord that night. 
  • New Members – four people were received into membership.
  • Dedication of Nepalese Outreach Ministries  – Both the Community Bus and the Driver Mentor Car which were donated through BMA grants were in the auditorium and dedicated to the Lord’s work among the Hindu community.
  • Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal  – in support of our local Salvation Army Corps, everyone was encouraged to wear something red and bring a donation towards feeding children at our local schools as well as supporting families who are struggling. Almost $1000 was raised.
  • Healing Prayer – At the close of the service 20 people came forward for anointing with oil.

Future Proofing your Life: 14th June to 12th July

A new initiative from our Pastoral Care team has seen the development of a three-part program for people both in their senior years, as well as for the families of seniors.  Over 40 people registered from both the community and local churches. 

Future proofing your life; Around the Churches June-July 2023

Week of Prayer and Fasting  – 18th-24th June

A dedicated week to draw closer to Jesus, to pray for our outreach into our local suburbs, and to pray for Hobart and people in need.  A booklet with guidelines to aid our focus is provided for everyone to help engage us in praying together.

Table top Sale at Citywide; Around the Churches June-July 2023
Citywide held an indoor Table Top Sale on Saturday 1st July

CLAREMONT

Combined Pentecost Service

On the afternoon of the 28th May, Claremont Baptist hosted a combined Pentecost Prayer Meeting with Edge Anglican and Claremont Uniting to pray for unity and our community.

After sharing in reflective prayer, communion and corporate prayer we had some good chats over light refreshments. Good to meet and greet our brothers and sisters in Christ. 

The Luthys Visit

Missionary family Chris and Amy Luthy and their family will be leading our service on 16th July.  They serve with Pioneers and will share some of their experiences. 

HOBART

Esteem. Coffee Shop

After a month or so of trials and waiting for final council approval, our coffee shop is now open! Volunteers will staff the coffee shop with a community focus and strong leaning towards supporting and training ex-refugees.

Thanks to Kelvin Smith for his work in the final stages of getting the coffee shop up and running, well over a decade since the dream began.

Esteem. Coffee Shop, Hobart Baptist; Around the Churches June-July 2023
Esteem Coffee Shop

Luminous Festival

Thursday 8th to Sunday 25th June

Over two weeks, the Luminous Festival at Hobart Baptist hosted various activities, lined up to coincide with Hobart’s mid-winter festival, Dark Mofo.

  1. An art installation by Michael Henderson, The Seed of Life Weighed Down, on display in the foyer of The Tab. The display generated well over 100 faith-conversations with passers-by.
  2. Three “Conversations”, which provided a space for thought and discussion. Speakers in the Conversations panels brought expertise on topics asking:
    • Is Tasmania A Place for Everyone?’
    • How can we help Tasmanian Children flourish?
    • How Do We Create Healthy Families?
  3. The festival culminated with Christmas in Winter, when we celebrated Christmas within its original context of the dark, cold mid-winter.
    • Luminous Carols, Friday 23rd June
    • Christmas Day service, Sunday 25th June

Art by Michael Henderson questioned ‘what the nativity scene represents, and whether it has an ability today to help us enter the mystery of God and faith’.

Luminous Festival at Hobart Baptist, Around the Churches June-July 2023
L to R: Michael Henderson opens his artwork; The art exhibit; Soundy building’s lit-up entry; The Tab lights; Speakers John Kumara and Zelinda Sherlock; Stephen Baxter instroduces the Hallelujah Chorus community choir at the Luminous Carols event.

Long Table event

Members of the church, and many others, attended this wintry meal on the 25th June. Over 50 people enjoyed Eritrean food together. Thanks to Kelvin Smith and others for organising.

Farewell Margaret Baikie

Margaret Baikie, Around the Churches June-July 2023

Our dear friend Margaret Baikie went to be with her Lord and Saviour on Wednesday 14 June 2023. Margaret was a member of HBC for 55 years, and until fairly recently, in a very active capacity.

Loved and loving wife of Albert, mother of Margaret (Luckman) and Gordon, mother-in-law of Greg and Angie (Read). Adored Granny of Gordon James, Alistair, Hamish, James and Sunday Clare.

Around the Churches June-July 2023

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Around the Churches June-July2023

Around the Churches June-July 2023

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Around the Churches, Apr-May 2023

Every two months you can catch up with the latest news in Tasmanian Baptist Churches.

North

GATEWAY

Combined service

On Sunday 30th April we had one of our 5th Sunday Combined Services in which people from Gateway, Agape and Gateway Nepali Fellowship join together. These have been so enjoyable in the past and we anticipate another great meeting.

Plans for May Mission Month

During the month of May we will have a variety of speakers sharing of a number of Missions Gateway is connected with, including Prison Fellowship, Shoe Boxes, Thailand, Haiti, Shekinah House, Rahab Ministry, 

Stamps!

Gateway Ladies Pizza and Stamp Cutting Night took place recently, where they trimmed stamps in readiness to be sent to QLD to raise funds for Baptist Mission Australia. The used stamps, and national collection raises approx. $70,000.00 every year! Gateway member Jill Ashdown is the “Tasmanian Stamp lady”.
Read how to participate in the Stamp ministry in the NEWS, next week.

Gateway Baptist: Nepali Fellowship; Stamp Mission group, Around the Churches Apr-May 2023
Gateway Nepali Fellowship; Missions Stamp Group meet

CITY BAPTIST, Launceston

Easter | Your prayers appreciated!

We had lovely services over Easter – the Good Friday reflective service was a particular highlight for many, working through a Protestant take on the Stations of the Cross.

City Baptist is still prayerfully seeking a more permanent home to gather in – we would appreciate your prayers for/with us as we seek God’s guidance.

Impacting our community

Members in our community continue activism and pastoral work among migrant communities, the street community and with regard to climate action, representing Jesus’ (and our) heart for going to the margins.

Jeff McKinnon and Garry Billing have started a home-grown discipleship opportunity titled Learning Circles, for people of all backgrounds, who are interested in growing in discipleship, spirituality and mission – learning the ways of Jesus. If you would like to know more, please contact Jeff (jeff@citybaptistchurch.net).

IN OUR THOUGHTS
  • John Tomkinson passed away in late March. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Gwen and the family.
  • David and Pat Jacobs celebrated a milestone wedding anniversary.

NEWSTEAD

Hutchison Family Update

Newstead Baptist Church is very pleased to announce the safe arrival of its newest member, a baby boy, Rafael (Raffy) Warren Hutchison. Raffy was born at 1:56pm on 3rd April and weighed 9.8 pounds (4.46 kgs).

Congratulations to Dan and Maria, Skylah, Octavia and Boaz for this exciting addition to the family.  Pastor Dan is on leave until May 17 to be with his family.

Around the Churches Apr-May 2023, Newstead
Dan with Skylah, Octavia and Raffy; Playing Scrabble at the Drop-In Centre
Drop-In Centre

Our Friday Senior’s Drop in Centre has recently dropped the “Senior’s” from their name in order to better align with our Strategic Plan. 

People of all ages are now welcome to attend the Drop-In Centre each Friday from 1pm until about 3:30pm.  Activities include good conversation, tea and coffee, yummy food (cake on special occasions!), darts, eight-ball, and a range of board games including scrabble and upwords.

We really appreciate the willingness of the older members of our congregation to embrace change and the future vision of our church and we look forward to what is in store for this special ministry.

Family Fun Walks

Newstead Baptist Church has partnered with Scripture Union to promote a series of Family Fun Walks.  These monthly, short family-friendly walks, are on Sunday afternoons from 2 to 4 pm, and easy to get to for those in or near Launceston.

All walks are manageable for families with young children, although not all are pram/stroller-friendly.  Our walks so far have been a great opportunity to meet new people and create deeper conversations around our discussion topics. For example, “Are you feeling full or empty?” for recent Trevallyn Dam walk.

All northern Baptist Churches are invited to join us at any of the upcoming walks listed below.  This list of walks, along with Scripture Union’s bushwalk series, can be found at https://bootsnall.sutas.org.au, including some useful preparation and safety tips. 

Anyone from other local churches or the surrounding community are also welcome.

Upcoming walks
  • 4th June                  Youngtown Regional Park
  • 2nd July                    Lilydale Falls
  • 3rd September    Gorge Circuit
  • 8th Octobe           Tamar Island
  • 10th November    Old Macs Farm

THE POINT

Baptisms

The church was blessed with the baptism of the Cousens family at Greens Beach on the 24th of March: Adam, Sarah, Erica and Tom.
So great to see the family growing in the Lord.

Passover celebrated

On Palm Sunday, The Point Baptist Church welcomed Mark Rogers from The Friends of Israel, who conducted a Passover Seder meal as part of the Sunday service. The event was greatly appreciated by the church, and helped understanding of the significance of the Passover event.

Around the Churches Apr-May 2023, the Point Baptist
Baptisms at Greens Beach; Mark Rogers of Friends of Israel

Northwest

LATROBE

Harvest Festival

On March 19th we celebrated our Harvest Festival. The bread, water and the sheaf of wheat along with the Bible, were centre of place, as they remind us of the basic things needed for life.

Food items were brought and displayed, and Pastor Ralph shared with us a reading from Leviticus reminding us of the need to be continually thanking the Lord for all our provisions.

The food was available for purchase after the service and the money raised along with remaining items was given to Gran’s Van.  Gran’s Van operates in Devonport to help feed the homeless and people struggling to feed themselves.

Latrobe Baptist Harvest Festival 2023

SASSAFRAS

Please pray!

Although it would be true to say our congregation is “getting on”, we have suddenly experienced quite a few ‘sickies’!

Please pray for David’s back op; Sheryl’s leg op; Gordon’s cancer struggle; Jean and Karl’s Covid attack and Frans’s back attack! That is a third of our church! Join us to pray for their rapid recovery in every aspect of this attack. We ask in Jesus’s Name:

“Ask in my Name and I will do it”!

John 14:14
Sassafras Baptist Church_ photo credit Duncan Grant

WESTBURY

Welcome little Macey

On 18th March, Pastor Matt Holloway, Lacey and big brother Larry welcomed Macey Kate into their family. Let’s celebrate with them for a safe arrival.

The Holloways
Matt and Lacey with Larry, and Macey

WYNYARD

Strengthening our community
  • Recently, 17 of our ladies enjoyed a day out with JUST GIRLS to Stanley, where they visited Highfield House, and Joe Lions cottage.
  • Many people attended a day of fun and fellowship at the Church Family picnic at Railway Institute hall in April..
  • Due to inclement weather, the combined churches Good Friday service was held in our church rather than in Guttridge Gardens as planned.
  • Chat n Choose continues to meet on Thursday morning in the school term.
  • Wednesday Get Together meet on the first and third Wednesday of the month when people meet for morning tea ,and fellowship and carpet bowls and table games.
  • The Food Hub continues to operate on Monday and Friday.
Franz and Heidi Brosch
Franz and Heidi Brosch
Franz and Heidi Brosch

We are pleased to have welcomed our associate Pastor Franz and Heidi Brosch into our church family,

They input into our church services, with Heidi in the worship team and Franz on the keyboard.

Around the Churches Apr-May 2023

South

CITYWIDE

Clean Up Australia

On 5th March again participated in the Clean Up Australia Day, this year at three different locations.  We did not hold a service at Mornington that day, and at Lenah Valley had a prayer time for those not in the field, linking into some of the sites for a report on what was happening.  Evaluation of the day will see some changes for next year.

Renovations

There has been some energy and money expended in our first stage of some renovations.  We painted our front rooms, and refreshed with new carpet, windows and blinds.  Also there has been significant hours and work effected on our roof in a bid to fix numerous leaks.  Fund raising is underway for stage 2.  

Mission Partnership

Our BMA grant towards outreach to the Hindu community in Hobart has seen the purchase of a 12-seater bus and employment of a coordinator for two-days per week. to facilitate community services.  This is now up and running. Praise God.

Anzac Day

In conjunction with the local RSL, we’ve had another exciting Anzac Day in the Park at Lenah Valley.  This has grown to be a significant annual community event, this year with an estimated attendance of 800. 

We offer various crafts and activities to suit the whole family, all with an Anzac Day theme.  We gave away Sausages, drinks and Anzac biscuits.  The public were involved and everyone has a fun time.  Conversations take place, and links are established. Citywide is blessed by serving.

Around the Churches Apr-May 2023, Citywide
Good Friday dawn service; Lenah Valley clean-up team; Anzac Day in the Park

CLAREMONT

Garage Sale

Claremont Baptist members cleaned out their garages and storerooms to hold a very successful Garage Sale.

While we benefited financially the purpose was to open our doors to our community. We offered a free sausage sizzle and tea and coffee which gave us time to chat to people. At least four people told us they never knew there was a church on the corner (it is a quite inconspicuous building!) Church families got to socialise too and there was a wonderful atmosphere.

Unfortunately, the event also proved to be a Covid super-spreader! So, by Easter Sunday we only had eight attending.

A moving and intimate service,  a wonderful time of rejoicing that Our Lord has Risen! On Good Friday we were also able to share in coffee and buns at Edge Anglican as has become our tradition. 

Around the Churches Apr-May 2023, Claremont Baptist Garage Sale
Garage Sale Day at Claremont

HOBART

Sanctuary Sunday

On Sunday 19th March, Hobart Baptist celebrated Sanctuary Sunday when all our congregations gathered to worship together. This includes the Karen Community, Mabuhay (Filipino), Vietnamese Fellowships, as well as Hobart Vision Church (Korean). During the service, Yvette Ambrose was baptised.

The Vietnamese Christian Fellowship National Conference

From 11-14 April, almost 200 registrants from the mainland and Vietnam took over the building for their annual conference. Our Vietnamese Family Fellowship hosted the visitors.

Karen Wedding

Congratulations to Karen couple Pan Tay and Nya Le, who were married on Saturday 15th April by Joel Ortiz.

Pray for Christians in Kyiv

Pastor Anton, who we support in Kyiv, sent this message on 1st May. Please pray for him and the faithful people there who are providing hope, help and lodging for refugees:
There was a missile attack 25km south of our refugee centre. Some of our men have been working in the rescue team and were able to help save some of the people in the attack.

Around the Churches Apr-May 2023 - Hobart Baptist
SANCTUARY SUNDAY: Korean Youth dance; followed by a wonderful morning tea; Vietnamese Conference; Karen Wedding

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Around the Churches Apr-May 2023

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ReCharge NEWS April 2023

26th April 2023 | ReCharge News

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    Geoff Maddock Visits Tassie!

    As the Baptist Mission Australia State Leader for Tasmania, it is my privilege to relocate to Tassie for the month of May to walk alongside our Baptist churches. 

    Geoff and Sherry Maddock
    Geoff and Sherry Maddock

    READ MORE ABOUT MY DATES AND DESTINATIONS >

    First and foremost, I seek to listen and learn what God’s people in Tasmania are experiencing as they step out in mission – across the street and around the world!  I’m also honoured to be sharing in church gatherings each Sunday across May and attending pastor gatherings and association events throughout the month. 

    I would also hope to visit with anyone interested in intercultural mission (local and global) or curious about the work of Baptist Mission Australia as we adapt our organisation to a rapidly changing world mission context. 

    Please don’t hesitate to reach out with a phone call, text or email to arrange a time with me.  I will be in the North West 30th April-10th May. Then around Launceston 10th May to 22nd May. And will finish my time in the South of the state from 22nd May to 29th May.

    Following conversations with Tasmanian Baptist leaders, engagement with churches and our own discernment processes, we sense God’s Spirit encouraging us to make ourselves available to journey with Tasmanian Baptists on your missional reimagination journey.

    Geoff Maddock
    Baptist Mission Australia | gmaddock@baptistmissionaustralia.org | 0436 470 535

    Atrocities in Myanmar

    A call for prayer via Australian Baptist Ministries

    The Asia Pacific Baptist Federation condemns in the strongest terms possible the recent aerial bombing of civilian villages in Pazikyi, Kanbalu of Sagaing region in Myanmar, which resulted in the deaths of over 100 innocent civilians.

    This attack is a gross violation of international humanitarian law and a blatant disregard for the sanctity of human life.

    As members of the Baptist World Alliance, who stand for justice, peace, and respect for human dignity, we are deeply saddened at this heinous act. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who have lost their loved ones, homes and belongings in this inhumane attack.

    We ask our member conventions and churches to pray for the people of Myanmar during these difficult times and to stand in solidarity with them as they seek justice and peace.

    READ: Full press release >

    Riverland’s Ministries

    There is so much going on at Longford! To find out more, or to attend/participate in any of these ministries please check their website (riverlands.org.au), call 6391 2202, or email admin@riverlands.org.au. Office hours are 9am-12pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday.

    • 10-11am Mondays and Tuesdays, Libraries Tasmania, Adult Literacy – during school term)
    • 11am-12pm Mondays, Prayer Group
    • 10am-12pm Tuesdays, Threads of Friendship
    • 5.30-9pm Tuesdays Young Adults Group – off site
    • 10am-12pm Wednesdays, Bible Small Group
    • 9.30-11.30 am Thursdays, Stay & Play – during school terms
    • 3-5pm Thursdays, Girls Youth Group – during school terms
    • 11.30am-1.30pm. Thursdays, Bible Discovery Group
    • 7-8.30pm Thursdays, Bible Small Group – fortnightly, off-site
    • 10.30am-12pm Fridays, Neighbours – fortnightly
    • 7-9.pm Fridays, Riverlands Youth group – 3rd Friday of each month, during school terms
    • 11am-1pm Fridays, Meals on Wheels – operate Monday-Friday each week
    Riverlands Minsitries. Snr Pastor Rodney Marshall, Meals on Wheels, Sta & Play, Associate Pastor Liam Conway
    Snr Pastor Rodney Marshall, Meals on Wheels, Stay & Play, Associate Pastor Liam Conway

    Grief Companion Training

    Do you know people who are grieving? Would you like to learn how to support them? You could attend this seminar, being run by New Mornings at Ulverstone Baptist.

    WHEN 9:30am-430pm, Saturdays 20th May AND 3rd June 2023
    COST Day 1 only – $75 (Conc. $55) ) | Days 1 + 2 – $120 (Conc. $85)
    WHERE Ulverstone Baptist Church Hall, 60 Alexandra Road, Ulverstone, 7315
    INFO Contact New Mornings: griefsupport@newmornings.org.au | 03 6411 6212
    OR download the flyer:

    DOWNLOAD FLYER HERE

    What’s Going On – Summerhill

    For more information about any of these activities please contact Maddy Svoboda: pastor@summerhillbaptist.org.au

    • Primary school mentoring at Summerdale (as well as training of mentors), runs weekly throughout the week.
    • Playgroup, 10am-12pm, Wednesdays during school term facilitated by the Salvos.
    • Chat and Choose, every Friday morning during school terms.
    • Craft Group, Saturday mornings once a month.
    • High school Youth Ministry, 7-9pm, 2nd Friday of the month (when not involved with the combined youth initiatives).
    • Life groups, throughout the week.
    • A service in our local aged care facility. We hope to extend to another service soon.
    Summerhill Baptist Ministries

    Stand with the People of Myanmar

    FROM BAPTIST MISSION AUSTRALIA

    More than ever, the people of Myanmar need to know that others stand with them. They need to know they are not forgotten.

    Two years on from a military coup, Myanmar is rocked by violence, oppression and instability. The economy has collapsed, there are severe shortages of food, fuel and other basic supplies. Families are forced to separate, churches continue to be damaged. Pastors have been arrested. The military continue to ignore basic human rights. 

    Since the coup, more than 3000 people have been killed and 16,000 people detained. Almost 1.6 million people are displaced within Myanmar and 1.1 million refugees and asylum seekers from Myanmar live in refugee camps on the Thai and Indian borders and within other towns in Thailand and India. 

    Please invite your faith community in sacrificially giving to our Stand with Myanmar appeal, so that together we can make a tangible and practical difference in the lives of people who continue to live with trauma and uncertainty.

    What’s Going on – City Baptist

    City Baptist Church in Launceston has people, as well as activities that people can connect with relationally.

    • Street chaplain (Stephen Avery), coming alongside those in need on our streets
    • Advocacy 
      • Housing provided for refugees (Ivan James)
      • The homeless and those fleeing Family and Domestic Violence (Kay Hunter)
      • Climate activism (Sally Staley, Wendy Miller and friends)
    • Drop in Centre in the Red Dove Café
      6pm-7pm Saturdays, 52 weeks per year (Jeff McKinnon).
    • City Baptist Community Garden –  69 Station Rd, St Leonards (Steve and Marie Pearce)
    • Learning Circle (hosted by Garry Billing and Jeff McKinnon) for those wanting to grow in discipleship, spirituality and mission (three-week sessions)
    • Young adult dinners with Jenna Blackwell
    • Friday Frolics – Intergenerational social outing on last Friday of the month (Merelyn Briton)

    Find out more here > | City Baptist on Facebook >

    Some of the faces at City Baptist, L-R: Tracey and Stephen Avery; Jeff McKinnon; Jenna Blackwell; Kay Hunter

    What’s Going on – Gateway

    The Baptist churches in and around Launceston want to work more closely together and point people to activities going on in other Baptist churches.

    Over the coming weeks reCharge NEWS will highlight one church’s activities, this week, with Gateway Baptist.

    Gateway Baptist, Craft Group, Artway, Basketball, Mentoring and lifeskills
    Gateway’s Ministries most weeks:
    Shekinah House Team

    Volunteering and low level counseling with homeless people
    11am till 3pm, Tuesday to Friday

    Bible Study

    Ladies study with coffee
    3rd and 4th Tuesday of each month  
    Wednesday group
    5:30 – 6:30pm Wednesday
    Eat, Share, Pray Midweek Group
    6:30-8:30pm, Thursday

     Artway            

    Art Therapy and Lessons 12 noon – 2pm Wednesday and Thursday   
    Craft Group 6:30-9pm, Wednesday               

    Walking Group

     Ladies 10am Thursday

    Baptist Basketball

    Saturday Evenings

    To enquire about any of these activities please email: noeleagling@gmail.com

    Easter Camp at Perth

    In 1954, Perth Baptist hosted an enormous Easter Camp!
    Thank you to those who responded about the year this photo was taken.

    Perth Baptist Easter Camp, approx date 10940s

    READ MORE Perth Baptist Church Profile

    What’s Going On – Newstead

    Walk this Way - Newstead Baptist
    Walk this Way 

    2-4pm first Sunday of the month

    Family friendly short walks aimed to be an intergenerational opportunity to create space in creation to walk and talk.

    Life Groups

    Tuesday Life Group 7-9pm in Prospect
    Thursday Life Group 7-9pm in Newstead
    All Welcome! Join a Life Group here >

    In the Community

    Chat’n’Choose 9:30-11:30am Thursdays, at the church.
    Crafts, Conversations, Friendship, Fun. Men and Women of all ages are Welcome.

    Drop-in Centre meets every Friday 1-3pm in “The  Lounge” at the church
    Games for all generations, just drop-in to meet new friends

    Alpha at Newstead Baptist Thursday nights from 1st June 2023

    To enquire about any of these activities at Newstead, please email info@newsteadbaptist.org.au

    Mid-Year Assembly

    Friday/Saturday 5th/6th May, Newstead Baptist (NB new venue!)

    The May Assembly is coming up very fast! All Tasmanian Baptist churches are eligible to have at least two voting delegates in attendance, plus pastors and Tas Baptist Council Members. As well, interested individuals are welcome to attend. However, all attendees do need to register.

    Assembly papers will be sent to Church Secretaries via email on Thursday 6th April.

    Program

    7-9pm, Friday 5th May: Dinner ($30)
    9:30am-3pm, Saturday 6th May: Morning tea and Lunch ($15)

    Payments and registrations will be due to the Tasmanian Baptist office by Monday 5th May 2023. As well as the regular registration process, we are trialing an online payment/registration system. So watch out for that!

    Views of October Assembly 2022
    Views from Tas Baptist Assembly, October 2022

    CROSSOVER Easter Resources

    FROM crossover.org.au

    This Changes Everything is an Easter series that’s ready to go. There are message outlines that you can take, leave or adapt. But the bonus is the artwork for promoting and inviting, easily editable to include your church details.
    All free, because Crossover is here to help you share Jesus.

    Ally & Sally is the shortest soap opera you’ve ever seen! 3x 1-min episodes you can show in church, or embed in your weekly email, or both. Each episode can stand alone, but the story builds – and twists – with a positive encouragement to share our great news.
    Perfect for showing right before promoting the Easter Offering in the three weeks leading up to Easter!

    watch ally & sally

    Read More ReCharge!

    April/May 2023

    DOWNLOAD Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

    echarge-news-september-202

    Subscribe to reCharge Here!

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

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    ReCharge News April 2023

    Posted on

    Around the Churches, Feb-Mar 2023

    Around the Churches February/March 2023

    Every two months you can catch up with the latest news in Tasmanian Baptist Churches.

    North

    CITY BAPTIST, Launceston

    Community focus

    We continue to gather at Worldview as our interim meeting space. Throughout February we focused on the call back to community.

    Our drop in centre meal continues at Red Dove café at Pilgrim Uniting on Saturday night. Steven continues his chaplaincy role to the street community. We would appreciate prayer for him and for Kay Hunter (who works with vulnerable women).

    We continue to prayerfully discern appropriate gathering spaces as we seek to transition back to the city of Launceston – prayer for this, relationships on the edges of our community, and for future innovative ministries is much appreciated.

    Steven, Red Dove Cafe (screenshot). Kay Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023
    Steven; Red Dove Cafe; Kay

    GATEWAY

    Devotional together

    On Sunday 12th March, each family in the church was given a booklet which is a 31-day devotional by Ray Hawkins (The Point Baptist) called Captured By Calvary.

    We are going to complete this Bible study together, reading it day-by-day, culminating on Easter Sunday. On the Sundays between now and Easter, congregation members will be invited to share about their thoughts on what is covered in the devotional.

    NEWSTEAD

    Walk this way

     Pastor Dan organised our church’s first ‘Walk This Way’ event.  We are planning to have them regularly with the first one being held at Heritage Park.  The weather was warm and so was the fellowship.  It was lovely to see a couple of friends from Scripture Union joining with our congregation members and chatting together along the route.  The second one was held at  Trevallyn Dam on the 5th March.

    Other events

    Pastor Dan met with the Little Fish volunteers to talk about the new program which has commenced and working well.

    Simon McCormack  is leading the work at our church  putting in a new conveniently located disabled toilet.

    Elaine Carins and the rest of the Senior’s Drop in Centre crew were treated to one of Maureen Battesse’s delicious strawberry filled sponge cakes this month to celebrate Elaine’s birthday.

    Walk this Way, Little Fish, Birthday Cake Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023
    Walk this Way; Little Fish volunteers; Elaine Carins

    SUMMERHILL

    Time to take a break

    Maddy Svoboda

    Our pastor, Maddy Svoboda, was on Long Service Leave for the past few months. We’re all grateful for his dedication to our church over the years and are glad he can take a well-earned break. In his absence, we have been blessed to hear from many inspiring speakers from within our congregation, who have shared their insights, experiences, and faith with us.

    Maddy has now returned, just in time for our church camp at Poatina Village on the 24th/25th February. It was a wonderful weekend of fellowship, worship, and meditative prayer. It also allowed us to reset, realign, and get to know each other on a deeper level.

    The camp was a great opportunity for us to come together as a community and reaffirm our faith. We were reminded of the importance of connection, support, and empathy as we shared stories, sang and prayed together.

    We are also grateful to the organisers of the church camp, who worked hard to ensure that all safety protocols were followed, and that everyone felt welcome and included. It was heartening to see people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences come together and build meaningful relationships.

    PERTH

    Community picnic

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

    Sunday nights at Perth

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

    READ MORE about Perth Baptist in their recently released church profile >

    Perth Baptist Church Profile

    Northwest

    LOWER BARRINGTON

    Now livestreaming

    We give thanks to God that we have had Starlink installed and are beginning to livestream our services via YouTube to reach out beyond our boundaries. It is very exciting that we have had responses even from overseas. It is such a blessing for a little country church in Tasmania.

    Jeff Percival speaks at the Lwr Barrington pizza night
    Jeff Percival speaks at the Pizza night

    Pizza night

    On 24th February our Pastor Jeff Percival was guest speaker at a free Pizza night for men at Sheffield Town Hall with over 100 men attending. A great Gospel message was shared with them all.

    LIFEWAY, Devonport

    Lifeway were recently announced as the national winners of Baptist Mission Australia’s Walk the World campaign!

    READ ABOUT IT HERE >

    ULVERSTONE

    Christmas

    The UBC family celebrated Christmas together on Christmas Eve with an entertaining skit, musical items and carols. We were able to host lunch on Christmas Day for those in our community who otherwise would have been spending Christmas alone. This was a lovely day, with about 65 attending.

    Christmas Eve at Ulverstone 2023; Fabruary Baptisms Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023
    Christmas Eve at UBC; Baptism at the beach

    Picnics and Baptisms

    We have enjoyed the warmth of summer and gathered together for two church family picnics in Fairway Park. This has been a wonderful way to celebrate who we are. Not bound or defined by a building or location. Simply being who we are and who we are called to be.  It was a great opportunity to connect with each other and meet new people. The highlight of these two picnics however was to celebrate with three of our young people, Charlotte, Josiah and Kailem by witnessing their baptisms at the beach.

    Gone to Glory

    We mourned the passing of long-time member June Woodberry in January. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.

    Kids Church

    After a few years without having a children’s ministry it is an absolute joy to see Kids Church start up again. We are so grateful to Claire and Abbey for serving in this way and we love watching our UBC kids as they excitedly leave our church service to enjoy their program.

    Shmuel Junger

    In February we were privileged to spend an evening listening to Shmuel Junger. Shmuel was born and raised in Israel and spoke about his amazing personal story and updated us on the unique challenges facing the brave pioneers who have settled in Judea and Samaria.

    BURNIE

    Matty, Ashley and their girls

    Appointment of new Pastor

    Late last year, Burnie Baptist called Matty Coppin to a full-time pastoral position.

    Matty, Ashley, and their two girls accepted the call, and are winding things up in Edmonton, Canada. They plan to arrive in July or August of this year. Please pray for a successful property sale, and a smooth international move.

    Praise God with us at Burnie, as we are very excited about Matty and Ashley’s arrival.

    WYNYARD

    Christmas joy

    There was a large gathering of people at Carols in Guttridge Gardens on Christmas Eve. This is an annual event, organised by our church and enjoyed by all who attend in a lovely setting near the Inglis River.

    Approximately 100 people, from both the community and the church who are alone at Christmas, enjoyed a lovely Christmas dinner catered for by our church on Christmas Day in the ROC building.

    Coffee makes a difference

    We continue to support two children in India with Baptist  World Aid with money from cappuccino sales on Sunday mornings after church fellowship.

    Welcome Franz and Heidi!

    Franz and Heidi Brosch
    Franz and Heidi Brosch

    We are delighted to have welcomed our Associate Pastor Franz Brosch  and his wife Heidi into our fellowship on Sunday 11th February. We look forward to working with them, and getting to know them, as they share the ministry with Pastor Owen.
    READ: Getting to know Franz Brosch >

    MARRAWAH

    Thanksgiving service

    Marrawah Baptist held a Thanksgiving service on Sunday 5th February as it closed its doors after 70 years of faithful service in the community.

    People, young and old, packed out the building to celebrate the life, service and impact of the church over so many decades.

    Mission Director Stephen Baxter spoke, and the morning was MC’d by Dan Evenhuis (Citywide) who has fond memories of leading the Marrawah youth group.

    READ MORE about Marrawah’s Thanksgiving service >

    Thanksgivng service at Marrawah - the people gathered Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023
    Marrawah Thanksgiving service, 5th Feb 2023

    Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023

    South

    CITYWIDE

    Aboriginal Sunday

    On Sunday 22nd January, Citywide closed our doors, and our three congregations combined to celebrate Aboriginal Sunday in an open air service on the Domain.  Paul Dare preached and inspired us to continue on our journey of understanding and acknowledging the painful history of Tasmanian Aborigines. 

    In the early European settlements the native Australians showed the new settlers how and where to find water, and in exchange the Aboriginals had access to flour and salt.  We celebrated this tentative exchange by drinking water together and eating damper.  The service culminated in sharing a picnic lunch together.

    Mission Partnership

    We are excited in the new partnership we have formed with Baptist Mission Australia to work together in reaching the Hindu community of Hobart, primarily through the community services our Nepalese congregation offer to new arrivals. 

    We have received a generous grant from BMA towards purchasing a van and employing a Community Support Worker for two-days/week for two years.

    Lunch time Forum

    Rev Prof Rene Enrich, Principal and Professor of Practical Theology at Whitley College, spoke at a lunch forum on his specialized subject, Sexuality and Theology in Conversation.  Rene stimulated and challenged those who attended, to allow the Spirit of God to reshape our thinking. 

    READ: Citywide Annual Report 2022

    Celebrations
    • MARRIED:  Josh Garvin and Jen Paull on 31st December
    • MARRIED:  Kevin Chalk and Sonya Latham on 8th January
    • ENGAGED:  Mitchell Semmens and Sophie Garvin on 17th January
    • BAPTISED:  Sophie Griffiths on 19th February at Lenah Valley
    Tas Baptist NEWS February 2023 showing Citywide Baptist and their three congregations, gathering on Aboriginal Sunday
    Citywide gather on the Domain for Aboriginal Sunday

    CLAREMONT

    T2 Women

    Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023 T2 Women at Claremont Baptist
    T2 Women

    Claremont’s ladies group, T2women, had a wonderful start to the year with a garden party under ancient elms  in one of our member’s beautiful historic garden. The weather was glorious, the tea delicious and the conversation delightful as we shared our favourite flowers, poems and songs about flowers.

    T2 comes from Titus 2:3-5 which encourages the women of the church from all generations to learn from each other. Our hope is to grow our faith through friendships. 

    Together with IC Church

    We held a combined service with IC Church and shared lunch afterwards. It is hoped we might do this more often. Pastor Mohan from Singapore was the speaker so an extra blessing to know we can worship with brothers and sisters from around the world. 

    Church review

    Currently we are doing a church review looking at our current ministries, their effectiveness and how we can build on these strong foundations into the near and long term future. 

    IC CHURCH, Glenorchy

    Five baptisms!

    On Sunday, 8th January 2023, Intercultural Church (ICC) at Glenorchy started the new year by celebrating the baptism of five young members of the congregation. It was very exciting to see these young men make a public declaration of their decision to follow Jesus.

    Some very different faith journeys were involved – from growing up in a Christian household to coming from a non-Christian background.

    Aasan, from Nepal, wanted to find out about Christianity so contacted the church via its website. Graham, one of the ICC elders met with Aasan and helped lead him to Christ. Aasan started attending the church and it was not long before he asked for baptism.

    Franklin (from Hobart) in his own spiritual journey, had also reached a decision to be baptised.

    Aasan and Franklin were joined by three brothers, Yosief, Musse and Fitsum who were originally from Sudan but have been Australians for six years now.

    From many different parts of the globe but now brothers in Christ – sharing a bond that will last for eternity.

    IC Church baptisms, Feb 2023; Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023
    Aasan is baptised; L-R: Aasan, Yosief, Fitsum, Musse and Franklin.

    HOBART

    Events at HBC

    On Saturday 18th February, City Bible Forum used our building as a hub to host the Life@Work Conference.

    Then, on Monday/Tuesday, 20th/21st February, we hosted the Tasmanian Baptist Pastor’s Muster, where Dr Christa McKirland of Carey Baptist College, Auckland, spoke.
    Find out more about the Muster >

    It is great to have our new facilities used for gatherings such as these.

    Fundraising for Ukraine

    On Wednesday 22nd February, a piano recital was held at Hobart Town Hall to raise funds for Ukrainian refugees, who are being assisted by Ukrainian Pastor Anton Kaluzhny in Kyiv.

    The event was MC’d by Sean Priest. Kelvin Smith and Timothy Prajogo performed – all from HBC.

    READ MORE about the fundraiser in February 2023 NEWS >
    DONATE to fundraiser for Ukrainian refugees >

    Sanctuary Sunday

    We are looking forward to celebrating Sanctuary Sunday/Harmony Day on Sunday 19th March as we celebrate our broad ethnic diversity. We are grateful for contributions the Karen, Filipino, Indian, Vietnamese, Anuak (Ethiopian) and other nations make to our fellowship.

    Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023; Hobart Baptist Harmony Day 2022; Pastors Muster Feb 2023
    Some of the national dress worn on Sanctuary Sunday-Harmony Day 2022;
    Pastor’s Muster, 20/21 February 2023

    Read ReCharge

    February/March 2023

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    Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023

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

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

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

      Office Secretary at Newstead

      POSITION VACANT

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

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

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

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

      Newstead Baptist Church

      Türkiye and Syria Crisis

      BAPTIST WORLD AID RESPONDS

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

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

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

      What we know so far

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

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

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

      Celebrating Capacity Workshop

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

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

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

      Fostering Hope
      Northern Mentoring Officer

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

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

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

      Applications close on 24th February 2023.

      Find out more >

      Northern Mentoring Office, Fostering Hope Tasmania

      Aboriginal Sunday 2023

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

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

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

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

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

      Paul Dare speaking; Citywide gathered at the Domain amphitheater.

      Spiritual Care Coordinator

      Baptcare Hiring!

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

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

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

      DOWNLOAD position description >

      ReCharge News February 2023

      Marrawah Thanksgiving Service

      Sunday 5th February 2023

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

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

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

      All welcome to share food, stories and memories

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

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

      Read More ReCharge!

      February 2023

      DOWNLOAD Recent Issues of ReCharge

      echarge-news-september-202

      Subscribe to reCharge Here!

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

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      ReCharge News February 2023

      Posted on

      Around the Churches, Oct-Nov 2022

      Around the Churches Oct/Nov 2022. Citywide walk fundraiser; Marrawah Baptist leadership; Filipino singers; Bella Lay and family

      Around the Churches October-November 2022

      Every two months you can catch up with the latest news in Tasmanian Baptist Churches.

      Around the Churches this year

      February/March 2022
      April/May 2022
      June/July 2022
      August/September 2022

      North

      CITY BAPTST, Launceston

      City’s Sunday Gatherings are well settled in our temporary home at Worldview College, St Leonards. On Sunday 6th November, Sunday Jenna Blackwell coordinated a picnic in Princes Square and led a great devotion before we wandered the city centre on a prayer walk.

      Our Saturday ministry to street community is thriving in its partnership, and has a new home with Pilgrim Uniting Church.

      Jeff McKinnon concludes 46 years of pastoral ministry on 31 December. A ‘handover service’ will take place on 9 January 2023.

      Next year is looking like an exciting adventure under the pastoral leadership of Anthea Maynard and Jenna Blackwell.

      City Baptist, Around the Churches October-November 2022
      L to R: Jeff McKinnon, Anthea Maynard, Jenna Blackwell

      Northwest

      ULVERSTONE 

      Father’s Day
      Father’s Day was a day of joy and as we honoured and celebrated our UBC men. An entertaining video presentation was created by some of our UBC family members re-enacting their own father’s sayings and behaviours.

      Dr Kameel Majdali
      We enjoyed the teaching and wisdom of Dr Kameel Majdali (pictured) who, with prophetic insight and practical spiritual encouragement brought Biblical clarity to the times that we are living in today. 

      Church Anniversary
      On the 25th September, our Sunday service celebrated 117 years of God’s goodness and faithfulness to UBC. A video presentation took us back in time reflecting on all the pastors that have served with us up to present day.

      The choir presented an item they had recently prepared and performed for a Bible Society concert. Of course, it’s not a celebration without food, so a BBQ lunch was enjoyed by all.

      Table Tennis
      Our table tennis season came to an end with about 30 people participating this year. The grand final night concluded with a trophy presentation and pizza.

      T.U.C.K 
      Between the months of June to the end of September it has been a privilege to host a space for TUCK (The Ulverstone Community Kitchen) to operate. Partnering with businesses, organisations and members of our community, we were able to provide a safe space for those in need to enjoy a free meal.

      We look forward to being part of the TUCK team with the hope of being a blessing and encouragement to whoever may be reached throughout the winter months of 2023. 

      Ulverstone Baptist Around the Churches October-November 2022
      Gabe, and Pastor Louis Fife
      FAREWELL: Josephine Viney

      26th September 1936 – 23rd August 2022
      By Glenys Preston 

      After many months of failing health, we at Ulverstone Baptist Church were saddened when our dear friend Josie passed away.

      Together with her husband Neville, they ministered on the African Continent for 19 years with service at a Leprosy Hospital in the Sudan, on a medically equipped vessel on Lake Chad, and finally house parents to missionaries’ children in Nigeria.

      In 1979, the family returned to Tasmania and settled in Ulverstone where Josie’s nursing expertise saw her employed at the Ulverstone Hospital, followed by assisting in the establishment of the Palliative Care Unit, based at the Mersey General Hospital in Latrobe.

      Josie became a much loved and respected member of UBC with involvement including leading a ladies bible study group, a member of the missionary team, deaconesses and Sunday school teacher.

      Hospitality was a prominent part of Josie and Neville’s lives, providing meals and fellowship to many, as well as spiritual support to countless needy people in their home, while added hospital visitation of encouragement was administered during times of suffering.

      We thank God for the blessing which has been ours in having Josie in our personal and Church lives, knowing that she is at peace and rejoicing in the presence of her Lord and Saviour who she loved and faithfully served.

      MARRAWAH

      Marrawah Baptist leadership team with Rodney Marshall, Around the Churches October-November 2022
      The Marrawah leadership team recently met with Rodney Marshall and Michael Henderson to plan the Thanksgiving Service.

      Marrawah Baptist to Close
      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 in to Smithton, and are now attending the Baptist church there. Now, the membership has decided it is time to permanently close their doors.

      Thanksgiving Service
      Marrawah Baptist will host a thanksgiving service early 2023. During the morning there will be time to say farewell and celebrate all the years and work and mission that has taken place through this fellowship. 

      Thanksgiving Service at Marrawah Baptist Church
      DATE: yet to be confirmed – stay posted!
      9.45am Come for a cuppa
      10:30am Worship Service
      All are welcome to attend.
      MAP: Marrawah Baptist Church, 826 Comeback Rd, Marrawah TAS 733

      Around the Churches October-November 2022

      South

      CITYWIDE

      Church Camp
      We had another successful family camp at Poatina at the end of September. Well over 100 attended with great interactions between our three congregations. Our focus for the weekend included some Psalms for teaching and reflection, including Psalm 23 alongside the riverbank.

      The highlight of the many activities was the soccer match between the Australian and Nepalese congregations – a cause of much fun and spectator delight. The Saturday night family concert also brought forth some special talent.

      L to R: Citywide Soccer teams; Saturday night concert; Walkers near the top of kunanyi

      Mission Trip to Nepal
      Pastors Paul Rai and Dan Evenhuis embarked on a two-week mission trip to Nepal at the end of October. The purpose of the trip was to visit the rural pastors and the children’s home we support, and to firm up the registered local supports to ensure that our charity status is not compromised.

      In addition, this is a fact-finding venture to ensure our support and ministry into Nepal can be focused where it is most needed. A climb from Lenah Valley to the summit of Mt. Wellington/kunanyi on Saturday 15 October in support of Nepali mission was well supported.

      Operation Christmas Child Shoe Boxes
      On 16 October in our service, our congregations engaged in packing 200 shoe boxes for the Operation Christmas Child ministry. We have an active collection for the boxes throughout the year in which many engage generously to make and donate goods.

      Farewell Service for Peter Clarke
      Peter Clarke

      It was with much sadness that we celebrated the life of Peter Clarke on 12 October. Peter served many years as an Elder at Lenah Valley, and then at Citywide after our merger.

      At the service, tributes to Peter acknowledged his life from as far away as Zambia. Many people’s lives were blessed and impacted by Peter’s ministry, all of which flowed from his close relationship with Jesus and his desire to serve him well.

      Peter has left a hole in our lives at Citywide, but we know that he is now excitedly fulfilling his faith and rejoicing with his Lord.

      HOBART

      HBC Sancturary Sunday 2-22, Around the Churches October-November 2022
      From top: Mabuhay singers Children’s talk; Vietnamese fellowship; Karen choir

      Sanctuary Sunday, 25th September
      The first Sanctuary Sunday since Covid was a wonderful morning. For those who hadn’t experienced one before, it was a great opportunity to celebrate the diversity and international nature of the HBC family – all together in the one place at the one time.

      During the morning we welcomed the Korean Hobart Vision Church, now meeting in the Tab on Sunday afternoons. And also the Vietnamese Fellowship, who in September, became one of ‘sanctuaries’, along with the Karen church, Mabuhay (Filipino) and Anuak (Ethiopian) fellowships.

      National costumes, visiting friends, and lots of encouragement enabled all to enjoy the blessings of being one in Christ. A splendid morning tea followed the service!

      Bella Lay
      Beautiful 11-month-old Bella Lay has Leukemia, and her treatment is well underway. Bella, and parents Than Tun (Damo) and Lay Ber, have moved to Melbourne for treatment. This takes them away from their jobs/income and makes it expensive for family to visit.

      Bella Lay, Around the Churches October-November 2022

      Married for less than two years, both parents are part of our Karen community, having come to Tasmania from Myanmar via refugee camps in Thailand. You can support Bella and her parents by donating to a Go Fund Me fundraiser >

      Around the Churches October-November 2022

      Read ReCharge

      October/November 2022

      How did we do in 2022? From the Mission Leadership Team
      CHRISTMAS IDEAS For Baptists from Crossover
      ANNUAL ASSEMBLY Report by Anthea Maynard
      FAMINE In the Horn of Africa Melissa Lipsett, CEO Baptist World Aid
      PRISON MINISTRY By Cameron Brett of Prison Fellowship Tasmania
      DEEP THOUGHT The Sound of Silence By Denise Stephenson
      FROM THE MISSION DIRECTOR: Does God Really Care? By Stephen Baxter
      SCHOOLS MINISTRY: Mustard Lives Transformed by Jesus
      CHURCH PROFILE: Newstead Baptist
      October 2022 NEWS | November 2022 NEWS

      Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

      LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH!

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

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

      IT’S ALL ABOUT Around the Churches October-November 2022

      TAS BAPTISTS, Around the Churches October-November 2022

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      Around the Churches, Aug-Sept 2022

      Around the Churches Sept 2022

      Every two months you can catch up with the latest news in Tasmanian Baptist Churches.

      Around the Churches this year so far

      February/March 2022
      April/May 2022
      June/July 2022

      North

      CITY, Launceston

      On the move

      City's last service and Fellowship Lunch at Christchurch, Frederick Street Launceston
      City’s last service and Fellowship Lunch at Christchurch, Frederick Street Launceston

      On  28th August City Baptist held its final service in the historic Christchurch building in Frederick Street. This was a wonderful time of celebration and thanksgiving. The congregation reflected on the amazing 180 years of  stories encapsulated in the old buildings.

      Ivan James led those present through the long history of Baptists in Launceston, and Kay Hunter led a time of remembering and thanksgiving for the current congregation. A lovely fellowship lunch in Milton Hall capped off a great day as the doors were closed for the final time.

      On Sunday 4th September City Baptist found their way to the Worldview Centre auditorium at St Leonards. This will be their home for about six months or so. Anthea Maynard and Jenna Blackwell led the Gathering in recognising our corporate calling as we step consciously into a new, liminal space.

      Our Drop-in Centre ministry has also moved to a new venue, the Red Dove Café at Pilgrim Uniting in the city centre.

      GATEWAY

      City Launceston people

      Comings and Goings
      Farewell to the Beeston family, Andy, Penny, Mikaela and Emalyn. We officially said goodbye at the service on the 7th of August. We shared lunch together after the service.
      Congratulations Gayatri & Sanjay Sagar on the arrival of Ruhi Sagar, sister to Brianna born 15th August 2022.
      Congratulations to Gateway’s A Reserve Men’s Basketball team on reaching finals. They played in the Baptist Grand Final on Saturday 27th August, and were runners up to the Free Reformed Men’s team. Final result 26 to 40.
      Our sincere love and condolences are extended to all the family of Chris Sundstrup who died at home on 31st August. Chris was a valued member of Gateway, a willing contributor and much appreciated Church Treasurer.

      GEORGE TOWN

      George Town Baptist worship

      Guest speakers visit
      Pastor Abdul-Karim Kamara brought the message to George Town Baptist Church on Sunday Morning 28th August.  He asked the question “How Keen Are you to Serve the Lord?”  It was a challenging and uplifting message. 

      Wade Miller, whose family once owned the Hillwood apple and berry farms spoke at the September Breakfast meeting. 

      NEWSTEAD

      Newstead's Men in the Shed

      Men in the shed
      One recent Friday, the men were treated to some time in the shed with the master, Phil Marston, telling his story of the blessing of procuring these machines that enable him to manufacture anything out of metal.  One such labour of love is his Lila (purple) 1948 Dodge Fargo which we got to have a look and listen to.  Phil also demonstrated the art of cutting a thread on a bolt. 

      The men left with a couple of reflections: A master who has been doing the job for a long time knows his tools and what he is working with, reflecting Jeremiah 18:1-17 the Potter and the clay.  Finally, when change comes, when our eyes are on God and not our situation we come out the stronger and blessed.

      Spring into action!
      Newstead Baptist is springing into spring starting a new series: The Kings Apprentice: Our Moments with the Master, and providing resources to participate in a 40-day prayer guide.

      On Sunday August 28th we had a meeting to develop our strategic plan for the next five years.

      Pastor Dan is also glad to be moved into their new house in Newstead, and took a couple of weeks off to settle in.

      PERTH

      Eskleigh Service

      A Very Special Service
      On Sunday, 4th September we celebrated our Church’s link to the Eskleigh Foundation which has, amongst its other services for people with a disability, this residential home in Perth.

      Originally, our Church Hall was built by David and Mary Gibson and opened 160 years ago. When it grew too small, they built our Tabernacle in 1888, in which we continue to meet. When their large family home got too big for them, they gave it to the community as a place for adults with severe or multiple disabilities.

      Several residents and their carers attend our morning service and where suitable other events during the week.

      How the day went

      On this particular Sunday, we had three buses turn up at 9:05 with a sense that the morning was going to be special.

      How different to attend a service where our friends met, welcomed, and prayed for us. Two helped take up our offering with great enthusiasm, and another prayed her special prayer of thanks.

      Ron, a carer who has continued to work past his age of retirement to bring them to our service, spoke of the impact coming to church has on the residents. To him, he believes that every Sunday morning has an impact. He referred to the scarfs and other things knitted by our members and the other gifts given to them over the years.

      We were blessed to sit and be ministered to so enthusiastically by our lovely friends.

      The theme of the service was Kindness, with a link to 1 Corinthians 13 with the encouragement for us all to seek out our neighbour as the Good Samaritan did, and show that special kindness that comes from God’s love to all we encounter people every day.

      It is such a blessing that one of our members works at Eskleigh, and has a day-to-day relationship with the staff and residents. Rob arranged and led the service, followed by a great morning tea and fellowship.

      Northwest

      LATROBE

      Latrobe Chocolate Winterfest

      Chocolate Winterfest
      The weekend of 14th August saw the return of the Latrobe Chocolate Winterfest, after a two year absence because of Covid. The Latrobe church over the years has taken part in the festival by inviting the Choir of High Hopes from Launceston to come and perform in the church on the Sunday afternoon. This year it was wonderful to have them back again.  25 choir members came and presented a wonderful afternoon of songs and items.

      A “chocolate themed afternoon tea” followed, which everyone loved.  Many people contributed to the amazing food on offer which included biscuits decorated with music notes in keeping with the music from the Choir. This was a great opportunity to be part of the community, and to be a witness to the people of Latrobe.

      WYNYARD

      Wynyard Baptist Church

      Getting together
      Just Blokes meets quarterly with some very interesting speakers. In June we heard from a former policeman who spoke of his work and his journey of overcoming cancer.

      Just Girls.  In June, our ladies met for breakfast at a cafe in Burnie, then onto some retail therapy in Devonport. In July, we met for lunch and enjoyed an interesting PowerPoint presentation. It was given by a local lady who has lived and worked overseas for many years.

      Wednesday Get Together meets twice monthly. It’s a great time of fun and fellowship with carpet bowls and board games, a shared morning tea and a cake to celebrate those who have had birthdays.

      Child sponsorship. We continue to support two children through Baptist World Aid with money from our cappuccino sales on Sunday morning after-church fellowship. 

      South

      CITYWIDE

      God is our Refuge and Strength Ps 46:1
      Psalm 46:1 was a key verse
      during the DV Awareness Training

      Domestic Violence Awareness We recently held a day seminar to inform us about domestic violence. This is to begin to prepare us as a church to minister to people who have suffered in this way.  25 people were educated, inspired, challenged, and began to see possibilities of how Citywide might develop a ministry in this area. 

      Alpha Citywide are in the middle of an Alpha course, the first we’ve offered for many years.  We are delighted over 50 people attend, of whom approximately 12 are first time questioners and open to seeking God.  Please pray with us for Kingdom growth.

      Life Group Leaders’ Lunch We recently held the first of quarterly lunches for Life Group Leaders for training, encouragement and sharing of group issues. At Citywide, 10 different groups operate involving 100 people. We want to increase our support of these valuable groups who facilitate a large part of our pastoral care. 

      CLAREMONT

      Heather Hunt

      Farewell Heather
      Claremont are sad to announce that Heather Elise Hunt died on Saturday 23rd July after a short illness. She was aged 94.

      You can read of Heather’s incredible work during the formation of Claremont Baptist. It was published in the recent Claremont Baptist Church Profile >

      HOBART

      Hobart News

      Youth car wash
      HBC Youth, combined with the Boys’ Brigade, are raising funds to support a Karen teacher in a Thai refugee camp. So far they have raised over $1100, including $450 from a Saturday afternoon car wash and coffee event. Nice work everyone!

      Alpha Course
      A Sunday afternoon Alpha course began at Hobart on 31st July, and will continue through until 9th October. Please pray for the participants, especially for those who are new to faith. It has been a very encouraging time of seeking and searching the answers to important life questions.

      Living Hope
      For the last few months our sermons have focused on Peter’s letters with Living Hope – Changing Your Life for the Better. Jesus-followers are called to a Living Hope – hope that is alive and a hope that is lived.
      As well, we have ceased our pre-recorded YouTube services and are now live-streaming. These are available from 10am Sunday mornings on the Hobart Baptist YouTube channel.

      Read ReCharge

      August/September 2022

      Disaster Strikes Floods in Pakistan – Baptist World Aid
      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
      Love Beyond our Backyard Three generations of generosity in Wynyard

      September 2022 NEWS
      August 2022 NEWS

      DOWNLOAD Recent Issues

      LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH!

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      Around the Churches August-September 2022

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      Dan Evenhuis – Citywide

      Dan Evenhuis with Dannie and thekids
      Dan Evenhuis - Citywide

      Ministry Profile

      Dan Evenhuis recently began working at Citywide Baptist as the Executive Pastor.

      I hail from Smithton, and I spent my early years with my four siblings on a cattle farm. My family had a strong Christian focus, with Bible readings and prayer at mealtimes. Currently, I am Executive Pastor for Citywide Baptist Church. My job is to help the smooth running of our church. I’m also focusing on worship, pastoral care, and outreach.

      We lived in Melbourne when I was between the ages of four and 12, while Dad ministered to the Melbourne Jewish Community. Then, when I turned 13, we returned to Smithton. I found the transition very difficult, although it was during this period I met Jesus, who became my best friend. I was constantly aware of His presence and a natural friendly relationship developed, and I was very conscious of God with me. As I rode my bike to the milking shed at 5:30am, I’d talk to Jesus along the way as though it was the most natural thing.

      As an adult, I have loved working with the Youth and Community organisation Fusion, with committed godly communities around the world, seeing others being saved. I loved to see the effect no matter what the denomination.

      Reaching our communities is the long-game.

      Dan Evenhuis

      My most recent experience with Fusion was in Oxfordshire UK, bringing the community together in a three-day festival. It was an amazing few days, ending a quite depressing year. I felt people were feeling something like, “I respect and admire these people and know they are Christians. They’re smart and don’t seem deluded, but they really believe in this God stuff. I must be missing something.” Reaching our communities is the long-game. It’s a lot of work and investment, but so worth it.

      Family and the BIG move

      Danni and I have been married now for 21 years. Back in the UK she taught and did dance instructing. Now, she’s teaching at Calvin Christian School in Kingston. We have four children aged from 11 to 17 years old. When I am asked how I do spend my time, I say: “I have four kids!”

      Last year, we decided to come back to Tasmania after 18 fulfilling years of ministry in the UK. Back in 2014 a few of us in Oxfordshire started a less formal, and more welcoming, family-friendly Church. It continued to grow due to its unique ministry and had become stable. Now that the church is sustainable, Danni and I thought it’s time to go back to Tasmania. Family is important, and yet for 18 years we’d been doing mission on the other side of the world. It was time to expose our English-born children to Aussie culture as well as give them time to get to know their cousins, grandparents, uncles and aunties. Slowly, they’re beginning to settle into Tasmanian life. It’s going to take a lot of time though for them to feel like they belong. Please pray for them after this big international move.

      Evenhuis children 2022

      In Tasmania, we love the nature and the outdoors, the beauty, and the stunning surroundings. We always thought Hobart was one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and now we live here! My family also enjoy having extended family around. It’s different to being in a country on our own. I remember on a holiday here seven years ago, my kids were surprised someone had a photo of them up in their loungeroom. It was my Auntie from Burnie. Family is like that.

      I am really looking forward to getting to know the Citywide family, and other Christians across the state. I think the church seems to be struggling a fair bit here in Tasmania, and I’m so keen for us to work with God and throw all we have into His ministry.

      Life Challenges for Dan Evenhuis

      Dan Evenhuis received some great advice: "A calm sea never made a good sailor"
      “A calm sea never made a good sailor”

      The best advice I have received is: “A calm sea never made a good sailor”. God does not ask us to cram our Christian mission beyond our busy life. We decide how much time to allocate. I’m keen for the church to be a source of enlightenment in our community – for us not to be in our Christian ghettos, but to bring Christ within reach of those around us.

      I have many challenges in everyday life. Running a church is busy work and I want to be careful that we manage how much of our effort goes into a Sunday Service. Many churches invest around 80% of their time and resources into that one Service. I would instead love to say, if you want to get to know our church, don’t just turn up on a Sunday, come and see us through the week as well. For example at Citywide, there is an amazing craft group which meets on Thursdays, with about 100 attendees. Our purpose is to stay outward focused because we exist for those who are not in the church yet!

      I’d really appreciate your prayers for me, that I can stand back and have some time with God regularly so I can work out what he wants me to work on. There are no end of jobs to do, but I want to do what he has for me today.

      And Briefly

      I am looking forward to … bushwalking with my family.

      I am worried about … many struggling churches across Tasmania.

      I am confident that … I’m where God wants me.

      I am joyful about … being around family.

      I would like to change … church being performance- and sermon-driven. I’d love to see the church becoming a vibrant, God-centred community of believers involved in whole-life ministry.

      I am at my best when … I am close to God and aware of His love for me.

      FIND OUT: Citywide Baptist Church
      READ: Jeff Percival (Lwr Barrington) Ministry Profile

      Dan Evenhuis

      Read More!

      April/May 2022 ReCharge

      Faith Runs Deep Video Series
      May Assembly Overview
      Around the Churches
      Fostering Hope: Respite Carers needed!
      Deep Thought: Mike Frost – Becoming wise
      Being Strong and Courageous
      Wynyard Baptist Food Drive
      Church Profile: Citywide

      April 2022 NEWS | May 2022 NEWS

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      PROFILE: Citywide Baptist Church

      Citywide Congregation at Mornington
      Church Profile

      Bridging the Gap . . .

      . . . from One shore to the Other

      Citywide Baptist in Hobart spans two campuses, and stretches across Southern Tasmania. Senior Pastor Matt Garvin explains some of the new initiatives that make it all possible.

      Matt’s reflection is followed by a longer-term overview from long-time member Raie Semmens. She and Trevor made the move to the Eastern Shore with a young family back when the Tasman Bridge went down!

      What’s Citywide up to?

      Pastor Matt Garvin reflects on the Work of Citywide Baptist in the Hobart community and beyond.

      When someone asks me how Citywide is doing, I never quite know how to answer.

      For a start, most people think about a church being a congregation of people who meet at a certain time every week. In contrast, Citywide has three distinct congregations, along with a pioneering church plant in Levendale, and a growing number of people who are connected online.

      New Citywide members - Hobart Nepali Church
      New Citywide members: Hobart Nepali Church

      Many people also confuse Citywide with our Mornington Campus (the old Eastern Shore Baptist church), but the truth is that the Lenah Valley and the Nepalese congregations are just as much a part of Citywide as Mornington. As well, our Nepalese congregation is by far the fastest growing.

      The central question that drives us as a church is what does it means to equip and encourage each other to follow Jesus in every aspect of our individual lives?

      Supporting other churches

      Our pioneering church plant at Levendale, too, is very much part of Citywide and central to our longer term plans. Small, and local, churches are the most effective way to minister in Tasmania. But running a small church is increasingly complicated.

      We hope to use Levendale as a trial to see whether bigger churches can provide enough support to rural churches. Hopefully, each can thrive in their own context. If the experiment is successful we hope to extend the offer of support to other existing or new rural churches around Tassie.

      Citywide Levendale

      The central question that drives us as a church is what does it means to equip and encourage each other to follow Jesus in every aspect of our individual lives? It is this question that means we are continually coming back to the FOLLOW, BLESS and SHARE practises, which you can read more about HERE.

      These are also why we are pursuing forms of online communication which help connect people with the message of Jesus every day. We are hoping to step more intentionally into this space in the coming year.

      Getting reorganised

      We want to organise our church around equipping our people for their works of service (Eph 4:12) which we understand means helping them discover and pursue their calling. This is why we have reorganised our facilities.

      to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.

      Ephesians 4:12

      What was the Pastor’s office is now our Meeting room; and the Associate Pastor’s office is now our Counselling room. Our former general office is now our Lounge/informal meeting space. As well, our staff team work in a big open plan office alongside anyone else from our church who is seeking to pursue some kind of ministry or expression of their calling.  The meeting spaces are available to our whole church family.

      Our Nepalese congregation is such an important part of who we are. So because so many of our Nepalese members have strong connections back to their country, it is clear God is calling us to step into mission in Nepal. We are currently in discussion with Baptist Mission Australia about the shape of that emerging frontier for us.

      Hobart Nepali Church 2022, at Citywide Lenah Valley
      Worship time: Hobart Nepali church at Lenah Valley, 2022

      Looking beyond our own backyard

      Paul Dare, Citywide Levendale
      Paul Dare

      In addition to rural ministry, Paul Dare is also leading our church (and Tasmanian Baptists) in moving forwards in our relationship with Tasmanian Aboriginals, and facing the implications of our state’s complicated history. Our Aboriginal Sunday service on the Queens Domain was a real highlight, and we expect to make a habit of engaging with this question as a congregation in different ways two or three times a year.

      We also focus on what it means to love our neighbours, and towards that end we cancelled our Sunday service in order to participate in Clean Up Australia Day in March. In addition, we encouraged our people to connect with their neighbours on Neighbour Day, and we are partnering with the Lenah Valley RSL for a Family ANZAC day commemoration.

      Aboriginal Sunday Service Jan 2022
      Aboriginal Sunday Service on Queens Domain
      Citywide participated in Clean Up Australia Day in March 2022
      Participating in Clean Up Australia Day

      We also focus on what it means to love our neighbours

      In addition to all of this, it really seems as though God is at work in the remarkably strong relationships building between churches in Hobart, and particularly the Eastern Shore of Hobart. We are gathering across churches to pray semi-regularly and partnering in lots of different ways.

      So how is Citywide doing? We are moving forward but we are conscious that we still have a long way to go, and we are trusting that Jesus will continue to lead us.

      Citywide History

      Our Last Few Years

      By Raie Semmens

      New arrival, new fervour

      July 2017 saw the arrival of the new pastor, Matt Garvin, whom God called back to Tasmania from Canada, with his wife and family, to minister at Citywide.

      Raie and Trevor
      Raie and Trevor Semmens

      At that time, the church was challenged afresh to be authentic followers of Jesus, and to think about our impact on the wider community. To begin with, Matt encouraged many to participate in the Foundations Course, resulting in a large percentage of the church looking at the basics of our faith and witness.

      A direct outcome of Foundations was an outreach to the Lenah Valley community. We held an ANZAC Day festival for families following the local RSL’s ANZAC Day march and service. People enjoyed free food, games and activities, and the RSL appreciated all the work done.

      It was very encouraging for those who planned the event, and involved under Matt’s leadership, to see the response from people of all ages. The media also reported positively about this event. Since then, the church has also put on Carols in the Paddock on Christmas eve for the community at Mornington.

      Carols in the Paddock 2019
      Carols in the Paddock 2019

      Tech solutions pre-Covid

      With our two campuses, Lenah Valley and Mornington, skilful tech people began live-streaming Sunday worship services from either venue. So when Covid-19 struck, with necessary Public Health precautions, Citywide was ready to share worship and teaching times.

      Our YouTube channel enabled a wider audience with Baptists, and other Christians, in Wynyard and Marrawah. Across the state, they connected for fellowship, music and teaching. People who needed assistance to access the technology and engage in the sessions received one-on-one  help and encouragement.

      A time to evaluate

      A re-assessment of the church’s property and resources have shown how to best serve the church and the community. As a result, we have increased the size of the office space. This provides work stations are available for use to anyone who needs a base to work from. As well, people from the Nepali congregation manage the church café area. Pastor Paul Dare planted a church in Levendale. Plus, we provide practical help with things like printing carol sheets for the local service, as well as prayer and support.

      I thank God that over the last five years we have been challenged to reach out to others. Now, we use our gifts and abilities in many different ways to serve others. These are just a few ways we can share our love for Jesus and his love for the world.

      Recent Church Profiles

      George Town | Latrobe | Hobart | LifeWay (Devonport) | City (Launceston) | Riverlands (Longford)

      Read More!

      April/May 2022 ReCharge

      May Assembly Overview
      Around the Churches
      Pastoral Profile: Dan Evenhuis
      Fostering Hope: Respite Carers needed!
      Deep Thought: Mike Frost – Becoming wise
      Being Strong and Courageous
      Wynyard Baptist Food Drive

      April 2022 NEWS | May 2022 NEWS

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      Regional RoundUp Sept-Oct 2021

      Sassafras Baptist Spring Regional Roundup Sept/Oct 2021
      Advance Sept-Oct 21 Regional RoundUp

      around the grounds:

      Regional RoundUp Sept/Oct 2021

      Wynyard

      Wynyard Baptist
      Wynyard Baptist
      • CHAT N CHOOSE Many ladies are pleased to be meeting again with their friends after a long break due to COVID. Wednesday Get Together is now on the 1st and 3rd Week of the month for fun and fellowship.
      • JUST GIRLS. SPRING REVIVAL. The ladies’ ministry organised an enjoyable afternoon with people asked to wear an item from their favourite Op Shop. Irene Godman spoke on Healing, Trauma and PTSD, a biblical way of ministering healing those suffering from the effects of trauma .  Ailleen also spoke of her work, and the beginnings of Grow Gather Give, an outreach and support providing food to those who need it. This is run from our ChurchHhall, ROC, on Monday and Friday mornings.
      • OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD. 226 shoe boxes where packed from our church and Chat n Choose this year.
      • Sarah raised $644.30 for the Cancer Council through the sale of daffodils.

      Penguin

      Penguin Baptist Church
      Penguin Baptist Church

      News from Penguin: we are small in number, in good heart and varied health.

      • This month we began a preaching series on Isaiah 1-39. We have joined the solar age with a substantial array on the roof, and have a new container for the ministry Library Aid International to fill and send to Africa for distribution. This will be the tenth (and likely the last) container to go.

      Latrobe

      Latrobe Baptist Church, Photo credit Duncan Grant 2018
      Latrobe Baptist Church
      • Chat n Choose continues at the Latrobe Baptist Hall every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm. Ladies bring along their knitting/crochet/hardanger work or any other craft to join with up to 50 others and enjoy chatting together. Morning Tea is served at 10.30am, Cost is just $2.
      • The Woodturning Group meets in the Men’s Shed. Latrobe Men’s Shed continues every Friday from 9am to 12pm with a BBQ at 12. We are always looking for community projects and new members to join in. A toolbox meeting guarantees a great time of great fellowship, with morning tea at 10am.
      • Latrobe Community Playgroup continues every Friday morning from 10am. All mothers/carers are welcome to bring their little ones up to age 4 and join with up to 20 others for a fun time of activities. A story time and singing finishes each morning around 11.30am.

      Sassafras

      SPRING SERVICE
      Spring service at Sassafras, Regional RoundUp Sept/Oct 2021
      Spring service at Sassafras
      • This Spring seems to have arrived so quickly! Again, the Sunday School greatly blessed us with a presentation. Even more impressive were the volume and beauty of the flower arrangements. It is a reminder of the grace and kindness of the Lord so obvious for all to see in this blessed Island.
        The various talents of the children were all on display this year often to the wonder of the Congregation. (Doting parents and teachers opening and closing their lips in tune with the script the kids spoke).
        One talent which came to prominence last year was in poetry, and again this year we heard from Rochele Long. 
      Spring is here and the flowers are vibrant
And the birds chirp happily singing God’s great song
The lambs have grown up so much like the plants that grow too 
God planned all this and we should thank Him. 
Spring sunshine beams, the days lengthen
Swallows spiral up to heaven, the Larks sing praise to their Creator 
Lambs gambol in the spring grass 
Hidden bulbs and seeds burst from the soil to worship their Creator 
New life comes from our God let us praise and worship Him.

Rochele Long, Sassafras

      North

      Gateway Launceston

      Gateway's Mystery Art Sale, Sept/Oct 2021 Regional RoundUp
      Art Sale Flyer
      • We want to say a HUGE THANK YOU to all the artists and Churches who supported and helped with our Mystery Art Sale Fundraiser for the children of Haiti.

      Newstead

      Hutchison Family 2021
      Dan, Maria and the family, August 2021
      • Newstead Baptist Church are pleased to be welcoming Dan Hutchison as Pastor beginning in January 2022. Dan and his wife Maria and 3 children will be moving north from Hobart where Dan is currently working at Citywide.
      • We are looking forward to Dan’s ministry with us and would value prayer for a smooth transition for the whole family into life in Launceston including a suitable family home and schools for the girls.
      • We are holding our Annual Celebration meeting on Sunday and give thanks to God for a good year as a fellowship, for the many people who have come to preach throughout the year and the many ways that God has blessed us.
      • Our Seniors Drop-in Centre has being going well with new people from the community joining. Praise God for this opportunity to share his word over a game and a cuppa.

      Perth

      Perth Baptist Church
      Perth Baptist Tabernacle
      • Many from around Tasmania would have known Wyn Gurr in her ministry over many years. Wyn passed away in September following a long battle with her health. She has gone to join her husband Allan in glory.
      • We are thankful and blessed by the four people who recently came into Membership.
      • Our Wednesday night ‘Better Men’s’ group is starting to attract a number of men with needs and a willingness to share.
      • The craft group continues to attract new ladies.
      • We hosted a very successful Community afternoon tea for the wise and elderly of the town which attracted a full Hall. We pray that we will see many of them again
      • The relationship with the school enabled us to sponsor two children to attend camp as their parents we not able to pay for them to go. This will provide us contact with those two families.
      • This year a Children’s picnic and family BBQ will precede our Carol Service – the whole town will be invited.
      • As the only Christian Church left in Perth, we take our responsibility to be Christ’s representatives in the growing town seriously. Please pray that what we do will be God’s will and will bear fruit.

      Riverlands Longford

      Roberts and Cloudsdales, Regional RoundUp SeptOct 2021
      Alan and Meg Roberts | Ann and Steve Cloudsdale
      • On 29th August, Riverlands made space in our Sunday service to acknowledge and appreciate the commitment and contribution of two special couples. Steve and Ann Cloudsdale and Meg and Alan Roberts have served in various ministry roles and activities at Riverlands over many years.
        It was a special moment as we prayed for each couple and released them from ministry responsibilities as they enter a time of sabbatical for rest and refreshment. As they continue to journey with their Riverlands family, they will be waiting on the Lord for his wisdom and guidance for this next chapter in their lives.

      South

      Citywide

      Citywide Converge Team with Eric Abetz, Resional RoundUp Sept/Oct 2021
      Citywide Converge team meets with Sen. Eric Abetz
      • During September, several of us visited State and Federal Politicians following the Converge Justice Training Day in August. They presented their cases for Domestic Violence, Global Poverty and Refugees and Asylum Seekers.
      • One of us is involved in the local Climate Change Action Group. They facilitated an excellent Climate Change Expo for the public at Citywide premises. There were various speakers and booths demonstrating how they can recycle responsibly as well as other informative information. 
      • Church Camp: The first weekend in October saw us all heading to Poatina for our first church camp in many years.  Poatina is an incredible site for such a gathering with various accommodation options, good food, and many interesting local activities.  Our theme for the weekend was Living in Community and the staff at Poatina shared their experiences. 
        Our mix of congregations, including the Nepalese, were blessed and we have achieved a further development in our joining together.  Everyone is already talking about our next camp next year!
      Citywide Camp 2021 Sept/Oct 2021 Regional RoundUp
      Camp fun in Poatina
      • During October we hosted a team of 6 from the YWAM Discipleship Training School in Perth WA.  What a blessing they are!  They for involved in Citywide groups, the wider body of churches in Hobart, and our local community by door-knocking and street evangelism.
      • We now produce a weekly podcast, each Wednesday, which involves a panel of four people discussing, and personally sharing about, the challenges from the previous Sunday’s sermon. Find it on our YouTube channel or as an audio on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.  Our current series is on ‘Next Steps’ and what it means to follow Jesus. 
      • Sunday 10th October was our Shoe Box Sunday. Our congregations packed 150 shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child during the service! This is an activity people engage with eagerly and we pray heart-felt prayers for each box.

      Hobart

      HBC Movie Night, Regional RoundUp Sept/Oct 2021
      Movie Night watching “Blue Miracle”
      • At Hobart we recently held a great Movie Night including games, a scavenger hunt and pizza!
      • We have already had several weddings in our refurbished spaces, with more booked in.
      • The Mustard Seed coffee shop, on Elizabeth Street, will soon open, creating more opportunities to connect with our neighbours, and Elizabeth College students next door.
      • Our youth are raising funds to provide income for one teacher to teach youth in a Karen refugee camp in Thailand.