Citywide Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Tasmanian Baptists

12 March 202325 April 2023

Around the Churches, Feb-Mar 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

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 24^th/25^th 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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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.

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

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.

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

Getting to Know You Franz Brosch, Associate Pastor at Wynyard
Generations of Legacy Perth Baptist Church Profile
Deep Thought March 2023 by Dr Christa McKirland, Carey Baptist College, Auckland
No Limits Women’s Symposium REPORT by Ann Herbert
Marrawah Baptist Closes It was a grand finale! By Dan Evenhuis
GOD and Life in Tasmania From the Mission Director, Stephen Baxter
Walk the World Lifeway win Baptist Mission Australia award
NEWS: February 2023 | March 2023

DOWNLOAD Recent Issues

Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023

22 February 202325 April 2023

ReCharge NEWS February 2023

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

22nd February 2023 | ReCharge News

Click Item to Read

ReCharge News February 2023

Raising Funds for Ukraine

YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE

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

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

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

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

You can donate to this amazing initiative here: GoFundMe.

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

Walk this Way – Newstead

FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHORT WALKS

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

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

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

Office Secretary at Newstead

POSITION VACANT

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

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

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

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

Türkiye and Syria Crisis

BAPTIST WORLD AID RESPONDS

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

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

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

What we know so far

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

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

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

Celebrating Capacity Workshop

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

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

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

Fostering Hope
Northern Mentoring Officer

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

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

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

Applications close on 24^th February 2023.

Find out more >

Northern Mentoring Office, Fostering Hope Tasmania

Aboriginal Sunday 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Paul Dare speaking; Citywide gathered at the Domain amphitheater.

Spiritual Care Coordinator

Baptcare Hiring!

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

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

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

DOWNLOAD position description >

ReCharge News February 2023

Marrawah Thanksgiving Service

Sunday 5th February 2023

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

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

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

All welcome to share food, stories and memories

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

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

Around the Churches, Oct-Nov 2022

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 6^th 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 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

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, 25^th 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.

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

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

TAS BAPTISTS, Around the Churches October-November 2022

14 September 202211 January 2024

Around the Churches, Aug-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

Comings and Goings
Farewell to the Beeston family, Andy, Penny, Mikaela and Emalyn. We officially said goodbye at the service on the 7^th 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

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.

Erik McKitrick addressed the Men’s Breakfast in August, explaining how we can effectively share the gospel in ways that are easy and inoffensive to others.

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

NEWSTEAD

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

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

Chocolate Winterfest
The weekend of 14^th 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

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

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

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

Around the Churches August-September 2022

5 May 202229 June 2022

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.

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

“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

PROFILE: Citywide Baptist Church

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

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.

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.

Worship time: Hobart Nepali church at Lenah Valley, 2022

Looking beyond our own backyard

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 on Queens Domain

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.

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 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

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

Regional RoundUp Sept-Oct 2021

around the grounds:

Regional RoundUp Sept/Oct 2021

Wynyard

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

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

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

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

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

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.

20 August 202126 October 2022

ADVANCE | step by step – Jul/Aug 2021

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope
Based on Jeremiah 29:11

Request Print Version via Mail

DOWNLOAD PRINTABLE PDF

HOPE. Across the globe this Covid-19 season, we hope like birds in cages.

We HOPE the virus will dissipate; that vaccinations will help; that loved ones are kept safe.

How important to remember Jeremiah’s words:
“God has plans to give us a HOPE and a FUTURE”.

Take hold of hope by joining the National Prayer Gathering for the Covid Situation on Tuesday 31 August. Find out more below.

This issue includes . . .
FROM THE MD: Stephen Baxter with treasures new and old
INTERVIEW: Liam Conway Ministry Apprentice at Hobart: he is a gift!
HOSPITALS IN PNG: Prayers answered to avoid closure (a gift of PPE)
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Jenna Blackwell wrestles with being a missionary in Tasmania
CHURCH PROFILE: LifeWay Devonport, now ministering in the South!
MERGE YOUTH: Citywide are kicking goals
REGIONAL ROUNDUP: City, Latrobe, Westbury, Claremont, Citywide and Hobart
NATIONAL PRAYER GATHERING: Nationwide prayer against COVID-19
CONVERGE CONFERENCE: Advocating to our government leaders
NEED TO KNOW (news):
GATEWAY turns 145! | EmpowHer Northwest walk | Request from Library Aid International | Tas Baptists’ website | Fostering Hope devotional-zoom | Australian Christian Literature Awards | Baptist Basketball Grand Final | Stand Sunday | Farewell PETER CUTHBERTSON | Ray’s Poem

You can read all these in the download-able version

Be blessed this week!

Jenny

Jenny Baxter
Communications Manager
Tasmanian Baptists
jenny@tasbaptists.org.au

12 August 202128 October 2021

MERGE YOUTH

youth:

Citywide’s Merge Youth Kick Goals

A Great Space for Teens

Matthew Henderson leads MERGE Youth, Citywide’s youth program. He also serves as an Elder, and on the Teaching Team

The MERGE youth program at Citywide Baptist church has been a lot of fun during 2021.

At MERGE, we provide a space for teenagers where they can let down their hair and blow off some steam. At the same time, we create space for conversations and group discussions. These are spiritually uplifting, spiritually educational, and spiritually healthy for everyone who participates.

This year we’ve spent a lot of time getting to know each other better, as I am new to the role of leading this group. We’ve also learnt a lot about heroes from the Old Testament, which is an area of biblical learning often overlooked.

Merge is blessed to have several very talented young leaders as part of the team. It’s exciting to give these committed and gifted young adults the permission and opportunity to test out their leadership skills.

A Different Spin

Earlier this year we had a fantastic night with a ‘Glow in the Dark theme.’

It’s amazing how many games and activities have a different spin when your only lighting consists of a few florescent head and wrist bands! This year we also celebrated Christmas in July, with a big Christmas-themed night of activities and fun. Finally, just last week, the 2021 MERGE Olympics took place. We had another great night filled with fun and friendship.

For me, the best part of our MERGE youth group is the genuine friendships that have developed. As well, we enjoy deep and important conversations about the Bible, Jesus, and the issues faced by young people. They are trying to navigate a complex and confusing world, and need help!

So far, 2021 has been great. And we’re looking forward to having even more great times together as the year progresses.

About Matt

Matt Henderson is married, and father to three boys (21, 13 & 8). His two younger sons are both on the Autism Spectrum. Currently, he’s completing a Bachelor of Ministry at Alphacrucis College in Hobart. He enjoys working with young people and sharing Jesus with them, loves to play games, watch movies, and he’s an amateur film maker.

30 June 20217 March 2024

ADVANCE | step by step – June 2021

My love has been poured out into your hearts through the Holy Spirit
Based on Romans 5:5

DOWNLOAD PRINTABLE PDF >>>

Subscribe for your fortnightly email >>> | Request Print Version via Mail >>>

This Bible encouragement is such a good one. It’s so heartening to remember that God’s love is literally poured out, into you.

MAY ASSEMBLY from a first-timer, Stephen Avery (City Baptist)
Q&A with PAUL MANNING the new Baptist Word Aid Tas/Vic rep
YOUR CHURCH WILL BENEFIT from running Alpha.
PROFILE Hobart Baptist church
WELCOME to COUNTRY History made at May Assembly
TESTIMONY From Swami to Christian by Ruth Burgess
MORE FROM ASSEMBLY Michael Henderson and Jenna Blackwell serve you
FOSTERING Q&A with long-term carer Tracey Avery
FOOD FOR THE SOUL #nofilterchurch by Spiritual Director Denise Stephenson
BAPTISTS IN MISSION The Pastors’ and Leaders’ Muster
FAREWELL Jeff McKinnon With thanks to a passionate servant
REGIONAL ROUNDUP Tasmanian Baptists in Action – Perth, Ulverstone, Wynyard, Citywide, Claremont, Hobart
NEED TO KNOW: NEWS – Religious Freedom Weekend | Training Day for TaCCs | TWO Online Baptist Conferences | EmpowHer Southern Walk | NCLS Survey 2021 |COVID-19 Crisis in Asia | Perth Celebrates | Hobart’s Luminous Festival | Pastors’ and Leaders’ Muster | Covid-19 in Bangladesh | KidzFest 2022 | Poetry from Ray Hawkins

Happy Reading!

Jenny

All articles are available here: DOWNLOAD PRINTABLE PDF >>>

Jenny Baxter
Communications Manager
Tasmanian Baptists
jenny@tasbaptists.org.au

North

CITY BAPTIST, Launceston

GATEWAY

NEWSTEAD

SUMMERHILL

PERTH

Northwest

LOWER BARRINGTON

LIFEWAY, Devonport

ULVERSTONE

BURNIE

WYNYARD

MARRAWAH

Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023

South

CITYWIDE

Celebrations

IC CHURCH, Glenorchy

HOBART

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February/March 2023

Around the Churches Feb-Mar 2023

ReCharge News February 2023

Raising Funds for Ukraine

Walk this Way – Newstead

Office Secretary at Newstead

Türkiye and Syria Crisis

Celebrating Capacity Workshop

Fostering Hope Northern Mentoring Officer

Aboriginal Sunday 2023

Spiritual Care Coordinator

ReCharge News February 2023

Marrawah Thanksgiving Service

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February 2023

ReCharge News February 2023

Around the Churches October-November 2022

Around the Churches this year

North

CITY BAPTST, Launceston

Northwest

ULVERSTONE

FAREWELL: Josephine Viney

MARRAWAH

Around the Churches October-November 2022

South

CITYWIDE

Farewell Service for Peter Clarke

HOBART

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October/November 2022

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

Around the Churches this year so far

North

CITY, Launceston

GATEWAY

GEORGE TOWN

NEWSTEAD

PERTH

How the day went

Northwest

LATROBE

WYNYARD

South

CITYWIDE

HOBART

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August/September 2022

Around the Churches August-September 2022

Family and the BIG move

Life Challenges for Dan Evenhuis

And Briefly

Dan Evenhuis

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Church Profile

Bridging the Gap . . .

. . . from One shore to the Other

What’s Citywide up to?

Supporting other churches

Getting reorganised

Fostering Hope
Northern Mentoring Officer