Tag: Gateway Baptist

Posted on

reCharge NEWS July 2024

reCharge NEWS May 2024

CLICK FOR NEWS ITEM

    Myanmar Sunday 

    15 September 2024 
    All Tas Baptist churches should have now received information this week about Myanmar Sunday on 15 September. The campaign supports Christian brothers and sisters in Myanmar who are experiencing atrocities every day at the hands of the military.

    Despite disappearing from our daily news reports, the situation has worsened in recent months. There are approximately 2,650,000 internally displaced people living or hiding in the jungle in Myanmar and a further 1,133,000 seeking asylum or in refugee camps in the countries surrounding Myanmar.  

    The ethnic people groups of Myanmar are largely Baptist and here in Australia we have around 75 Baptist congregations originating from Myanmar. Please consider joining with us by adding this important event to your church calendar and choosing your own way to support it.  

    Feel free to choose any date before the end of the year and join with churches all around Australia in the Stand with Myanmar campaign. Three suggested ways churches can take part in Myanmar Sunday are available online here. 

    ACT, GIVE, PRAY,

    ACT: Advocacy. Amplify the message, making the potential for change more likely.  Congregation members can sign a petition.  A letter template for congregation members to write to their local Member of Parliament is available here.

    GIVE: Donate to the community development and relief work in Myanmar and bordering countries through the local Partners of Baptist World Aid and Baptist Mission Australia. Funds are desperately needed for education, medical supplies, food, water and clothing. Giving slips, QR codes and treasurer information are provided on the Stand with Myanmar website.

    PRAY: Download prayer resources for your service from the Stand with Myanmar website.

    Many pastors and leaders from Myanmar churches have had input into this project, so we are privileged to work on this project. Just think what we can do when we work together on mission – a lot of people giving a little can make a remarkable difference.  

    If you missed the email, all the info you need is on the Stand with Myanmar website.  

    Any questions, contact Fiona at info@tasbapsits.org.au.

    Position Vacant

    Part-time Church Youth Worker Wanted at The Point Baptist
    The Point Baptist are looking for a part-time Church Youth Worker. The church has a small number of young people with 4-10 attendees aged 8-12 years, and an older group of 6-10 teenagers aged approx. 16 years and various connections that could see these groups continue to grow.   

    The Point Baptist Church (Beauty Point Tasmania) has been operating for 18 years and is one of only two churches in the town. We have a vibrant family atmosphere and seek to grow through outreach in our community. We aim to appoint a part time worker to grow these groups and deepen the faith of attendees.   

    For more information, view the Job description or contact The Point Baptist Church on thepointbaptistchurch@gmail.com 

    YOUTH & CHILDREN’S WORKER JOB DESCRIPTION 

    Youth Worker wanted The Point

    Retreat Locations for Pastors

    Tasmanian Baptist Pastors
    Do you know of any budget-friendly accommodation that our Tas Baptist pastors could use for personal retreats or holidays with their families? The Tas Baptists team are putting together a list of retreat locations and want help in sourcing some options.

    It may be that a member of a congregation owns a shack, a holiday home or a cottage on their property or even a caravan that they would be so generous as to loan to a pastor every now and then, either for free or a reduced rate. It could be anywhere in Tasmania. 

    Pastors and church leaders work hard, and often their work is exhausting and mentally draining. Making time for rest, reflection, and connection is an essential spiritual practice, particularly for those in church leadership. 

    If you know of a possible option, or want more information, contact Karla Miller at Tas Baptists.

    Youth Alive Main Event

    Saturday, 17 August from 3.30pm to 8.00pm
    Main Event is a statewide event for youth to gather from all over Tasmania to lift up the name of Jesus over their generation! This year, Main Event will be the biggest youth event of the year, and will feature Andy Harrisson and Josh Ham, along with food vans, indoor inflatable rides, limited edition merchandise releases, foyer DJ’s, giveaways, and more! The event will be held at the MAC 02 venue at Hobart.

    Find out more on the website.

    Ultimate Church Trivial Night

    Saturday, 24 August at 8.00pm
    Aussie Baptist churches are invited to challenge the reigning champions, Knightsbridge Baptist SA, at the ultimate Church Trivia Night. It’s Church vs Church and State vs State for the most knowledgeable Australian Baptist Church of 2024.

    The challenge takes place on Saturday, 24 August at 8.00pm through Zoom. Join in around a table or in a living room from a laptop (or other Zoom-able device). 

    A thousand churches. Six associations. One big family games night.  

    Find out more and register your church team(s) on the Crossover website.

    FREEDOM24 conference

    Monday, 5 August, 9.00am-4.00pm
    Freedom for Faith is hosting the FREEDOM24 Conference on Monday 5 August, 9am-4pm in Sydney. Livestream tickets are free for those who cannot attend in person. 

    The conference aims to develop your understanding of threats to religious freedom in Australia from historical, theological and policy perspectives. 

    Historian Sarah Irving-Stonebraker will examine the history of religious freedom, while John McClean of Christ College will share a theological perspective on how the church is to respond to legal threats to ministry. In addition, a number of experts will unpack the major religious freedom concerns in Australia, as well as implications and paths forward for advocacy. 

    You can register for the livestream here.

    The Day of Presence  

    Fri 20 – Sun 22 September
    Are you looking to get away for a day or two and discover more about God? 
    Do you need some time to escape the hustle-bustle of your life, to quietly rest in God’s presence? 

    “But as for me, God’s presence is all I need. I have made the Sovereign Lord my shelter, as I declare all the things you have done.” Psalm 73:28 

    The Day of Presence will be held in Maydena in Southern Tasmania to create space for busy women to stop, experience God’s presence, and B-R-E-A-T-H-E. 

    – Denise Stephenson, an experienced spiritual director and gifted retreat leader, will lead our time together. 

    – $150/person for 2 nights. If you can, bring some food to share at dinner time. (Please contact us if you have hesitations about cost. There are other ways you can contribute). 

    – Register your interest in coming by emailing empowher@tasbaptists.org.au and we’ll get back to you with more details.

    Gateway Baptist Church Special Meeting

    Sunday, 4 August 
    Gateway Baptist Church is holding a special meeting on Sunday, 4 August at 10am, for Ps Noel and Beckie Eagling who are retiring from leadership at after five years of serving the church and are being released into itinerant ministry. Ps Bob Goolsby and his wife Sylvie are being commissioned as the new leaders. 

    Join them for this special time in the church family, giving thanks to the Lord for the past five years, sprinkled with perhaps a tinge of sadness in the leaving, but focussing upon celebration in the provision of what is to come. 

    Ps Maddy Svoboda will represent Tas Baptists to complete the commissioning process. The service will be followed by morning tea. They would love to see anyone from the Tas Baptists family, as they thank and farewell Noel and Beckie and welcome Bob and Sylvie.

    SparkLit Awards

    Thursday, 22 August
    The SparkLit Awards recognise and encourage excellence in Australian Christian writing and publishing that helps people discover Jesus in a way that is authentic and culturally meaningful.  

    The 2024 shortlist is out. Ten titles have been shortlisted for Australian Christian Book of the Year Award! The shortlist this year features Christian responses to suffering, the ecological crisis and the challenges of mission. The 2024 Australian Christian Book of the Year will be announced at the SparkLit Awards Night on 22 August. 

    You can find more information about the titles that have been shortlisted for the 2024 Australian Christian Book of the Year Award on the SparkLit website.

    Save the Date: Myanmar Sunday 

    Sunday, 15 September
    Australian Baptists are joining together to support our brothers and sisters in Myanmar who are experiencing atrocities every day at the hand of the military.  

    Baptist World Aid Australia, Baptist Mission Australia and other Baptist ministries and Unions are inviting Baptist churches around Australia to join the Stand with Myanmar campaign.  

    Churches can do this by holding a Myanmar Sunday church service on September 15th (or on a Sunday between Aug 15-Sept 15).  

    Despite disappearing from our daily news reports, the situation has worsened in recent months. There are approximately 2,650,000 internally displaced people living or hiding in the jungle in Myanmar and a further 1,133,000 seeking asylum or in refugee camps in the countries surrounding Myanmar. Funds are desperately needed for education, medical supplies, food, water and clothing. 
    The ethnic people groups of Myanmar are largely Baptist and here in Australia we have around 75 Baptist congregations originating from Myanmar, 56 of which are within our Baptist Union of Victoria. 

    Please consider joining with us by adding this important event to your church calendar for Aug – Sept 2024, as we stand with our brothers and sisters from Myanmar.  

    Resources and ideas for how to hold your Myanmar Sunday service will be available soon. 

    ReCharge News July 2024

    Read More ReCharge!

    Recharge Articles 2024

    Posted on

    reCharge NEWS April 2024

    ReCharge News April 2024

    CLICK FOR NEWS ITEM

      Church Pastor Wanted

      Part-time Pastor wanted at Gateway Baptist, Launceston 

      Gateway Baptist Church is seeking a pastor to begin in August 2024.
      The position is for 20 hours per week with the responsibility of leading the church through organising Sunday meetings, preaching the Word, prayerfully advising the Church Council on all aspects of church life, pastoring the congregation, overseeing ministries within the church and liaising with Tas Baptists.  

      The church is blessed with several people who are able to assist the pastor with preaching and other leadership duties. This congregation of approximately 40 adults needs a leader who will encourage and shepherd them as they reach out to the unsaved people of Launceston and its surrounds. 

      The church is strongly Bible-based with morning and evening services offered. It is mission-minded, with not only overseas work being undertaken in Thailand and Haiti, but also local missions in the areas of supporting the homeless, prison fellowship, courts chaplaincy, arts & craft experiences and Baptist Basketball. At present, the church doesn’t have a youth group but has a Sunday School of 6-8 primary-aged children.

      A Church with a Heart for People

      This church which has a rich history has been around for almost 150 years and is a ‘church in the heart of the city with a heart for its people’, being centrally located in Launceston. It has a multi-million dollar campus, comprising a wonderful traditional cathedral-style auditorium, church hall which currently functions as an art gallery and features an industrial kitchen with six upstairs rooms, an old stables area which has been converted to a Sunday School and Youth Ministry area and a former old hotel beside the main building which is leased to a Christian welfare organisation called Shekinah House.  

      A Nepali Christian Fellowship of approximately 35 people is also incorporated in Gateway Launceston. They have their own pastoral leader and hold their meetings on Saturday mornings.  

      For more information contact Ps Noel Eagling 0447 555 335 or by email at noeleagling@gmail.com or contact Jeremy van Engen, Council Chair on 0439 386 459 or by email at spud_digger@hotmail.com 

      GATEWAY BAPTIST Launceston Tasmania

      Fostering Hope Mentoring Program

      Training Day on Saturday, 4 May

      Fostering Hope is a community organisation whose work comes from the teachings of Jesus in the bible to visit and care for orphans and widows; to put the lonely in families, to love the fatherless, to care for children, and to love neighbours.  

      Through their Mentoring Program, Fostering Hope seeks to provide a “friend with purpose” for kids in care. If you want to make a difference to kids lives through mentoring, Fostering Hope can equip you with training, connect you with a child and provide you with ongoing support as you mentor. In just a few hours a month, you can significantly impact the life of a child in care for the better. 

      Register here for the next Fostering Hope Training Day on Saturday, 4 May in Launceston, from 10am-4pm.

      Sessions are provided for free and offer morning/afternoon tea and lunch.

      To find out more about mentoring, check out Fostering Hope’s website or watch this short video that explains mentoring here. You can also share this printable flyer with your church and friends.

      Contact Anthea Maynard for more information at anthea@fosteringhope.net.au or scan the QR code below.

      Fostering Hope Mentor Training Day info

      Job Opportunity

      Spiritual Care Coordinator RAC & RL Karingal 

      Baptcare is looking for an experienced, articulate and competent Spiritual Care Professional to work as part of the staff team at Karingal Residential Aged Care, Residential Living and Orana Community in Devonport, Tasmania.      

      This position is part time (four days a week).   

      Baptcare is a purpose driven and faith-based organisation that provide residential and community care for older people and support to children, families, and people with disability, financially disadvantaged people and people seeking asylum. 

      For more information visit Baptcare’s website.

      Tas Baptists Mid-Year Assembly

      Saturday, 11 May 

      The Tas Baptists May Assembly is coming up very fast! Have you registered your church yet? Assembly is a time for encouragement and gathering as a community. Assembly papers have gone out to Church Secretaries this week via email. 

      WHEN: Saturday 11th May at Riverlands Longford 
      COST: Morning tea and Lunch TBC 

      Tasmanian Baptist churches are eligible to have at least two voting delegates in attendance, plus pastors and Tas Baptist Council Members. An additional delegate is eligible to come for churches with more than 50 active members. Others interested in coming are welcome to attend as non-delegates; however, all attendees do need to register. 

      Registrations are due by email to Anna-Maree@tasbaptists.org.au at the Tasmanian Baptist office by COB Friday 3 May. 

      ANNUAL ASSEMBLY 2023

      Baptist Mission Month

      May 2024

      May Mission Month is coming soon… And this year, the theme is Mending! No matter where we are, we can join God in mending a beautiful, broken world. We don’t bring healing in our strength—we are co-menders with God in Jesus Christ, our Healer and Savior. Let’s unite in partnership with Baptist Mission Australia‘s intercultural teams and get excited about all that God is doing through His people in neighbourhoods near and far. We can only do it together! Explore all the resources: 

      Image for Baptist Mission Australia May Mission Month 2024

      Earth Day 2024

      Earth Day is held each year on April 22. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally. This year’s official theme is “Planet vs. Plastics.”

      As Tas Baptists, reminding each other about Earth Day is an opportunity for us to demonstrate our support for protecting our environment and this beautiful home of ours in Tasmania – as good stewards of the land!

      Living with Loss seminar

      One-day seminar on ‘Living with Loss’

      New Mornings is hosting a one-day seminar on ‘Living with Loss’ on Saturday, 20 April, 9.30AM – 3.00PM at the Gnomon Pavillion – Wharf Precinct, Wharf Rd, Ulverstone. 

      The seminar is for community members and professionals to understand mental health and grief-related challenges. Attendees will learn strategies to support those living with loss. The training aims to offer community support, education, hope and encouragement.  

      Keynote speakers include local psychologist, Tracey Martin-Cole, and well-known Tasmanian restaurateur, mental health advocate and baby-loss mum, Bianca Welsh.   

      Register on  Eventbrite or contact Prue Arnot, Grief Support Coordinator, New Mornings on 0492 232 363 or 6411 6212.  New Mornings is a not for profit, mental health service supporting Northwest Tasmania.

      Bianca Welsh
      Tracey Martin-Cole

      Peacemaking Amidst Conflict 

      Rev. Dr Yohanna Katanacho speaks on a Palestinian Theology of Peacemaking

      Langham Partnership Australia is presenting a unique opportunity to hear from Rev. Dr Yohanna Katanacho speak on a Palestinian theology of peacemaking amidst conflict. 

      Yohanna is an evangelical theologian living in the heart of the current Israeli-Gaza conflict. He is from Nazareth Evangelical College and is a Langham Scholar and the author of Praying Through the Psalms and Reading the Gospel of John Through Palestinian Eyes. 
       
      Yohanna will share important insights to help people pray for the situation in Israel/Palestine at two separate meetings. 
       
      MELBOURNE 
      6.30pm on Wednesday 8 May at Ridley College 
      170 The Avenue, Parkville.  
      This event is also being live-streamed so anyone can join in. 
      Register HERE for the Melbourne event or livestream. 
       
      SYDNEY 
      Hear Yohanna and also enjoy dessert and coffee. 
      7.30pm on Friday 10 May at Scots Church, 44 Margaret St Sydney. The Church is right next to Wynyard train station, and parking stations are also nearby. 
      Cost $40 
      Register HERE for the Sydney event. 

      For more information visit the Langham website 

      Baptcare visits Citywide

      Baptcare highlights its community service work in Tasmania 

      Community service organisation Baptcare spoke at Citywide church recently about their work in Tasmania. Baptcare introduced their foster care, youth and mental health programs, and started a conversation about how people might contribute to their work in Tasmania. 

      Watch their presentation here:

      Baptcare’s foundations can be traced back to Victoria in 1945 when a group of Baptist women joined together to raise £4,000 in a time of war to open Australia’s first Baptist home for older people.  

      The work established the Strathalan aged care residence, which has grown into a thriving community that continues today.  

      It’s this missional spirit from local Baptist communities that founded the local services in Tasmania and has become part of Baptcare of today. Baptcare has over 300 staff in the state working across family and young people, mental health and disability programs as well as an aged care facility, social and in-home care support that operates out of Devonport. 

      Baptcare’s mission is partnering for fullness of life with people of all ages, cultures, beliefs and circumstances and vision of creating communities where every person is cherished.

      This mission has seen thousands of vulnerable people supported since Baptcare started in the state nearly 15 years ago. The organisaion also hopes to be able to set up a volunteering program in the near future to reduce social isolation of people suffering from mental ill-health. 

      One rewarding way to support young people is by becoming a respite or foster carer through Baptcare.

      Find out more on their website or email fostercareTAS@baptcare.org.au or to speak to Rachel on 0417 196 605. 

      BCSANT ‘walking together’

      Baptist Churches SA & NT launches new name and logo

      Baptists across South Australia and the Northern Territory are walking together into the future as one association, Baptist Churches of South Australia and the Northern Territory. 

      This amalgamation follows decisions from the respective Assemblies of Baptist Churches of South Australia and Baptist Union of the Northern Territory late last year to formally bring the two organisations together. Our two associations had worked together in partnership since 2010. 

      Having overseen the process, our Director of Ministries, Melinda Cousins, is excited by the opportunities at hand. 

      “We have much to learn from one another as we walk together, with our shared heart that more people might come to know Jesus, and that each local church will be better supported and equipped to follow Him in their unique context.” 

      Check out their new website or watch this video:

      Read More ReCharge!
      ReCharge News April 2024

      Recharge Articles 2024

      Posted on

      ReCharge NEWS September 2023

      20th September 2023 | ReCharge News

      Click Item to Read

        Love your Neighbour

        NAYBA Impact Audit

        Reminder! NAYBA Impact Audit. Tas

        The NAYBA Impact Audit of Tasmania is due by Friday 22nd September!

        As you may be aware, the audit will measure the collective social impact of the faith community in Tasmania, and put a monetary value on the time and resources that are dedicated to serving those in need.

        The survey is designed to be as easy as possible. It should only take about 15 minutes to complete, plus some time to gather the relevant information. 

        Before diving in, please visit the FAQ page to ensure you have all the necessary details at your fingertips. This will also help you decide if there’s someone who should complete the survey on your behalf. You could also watch the instruction VIDEO.

        The survey remains open until Friday 22nd September. Once you’re ready, click the following button to get started:

        Take the NAYBA Survey

        Fostering Hope

        Mentoring Program in Hobart

        The next Fostering Hope training day is in Hobart on Saturday, October 14.

        Fostering Hope are a community organisation whose work comes from the Bible and the teachings of Jesus to ‘visit’ and ‘care for’ orphans and widows, to put the lonely in families, to love the fatherless, to care for children, and to love the neighbours in the communities. Tasmanian Baptists partner with Fostering Hope partner to provide foster care to Tasmanian children.

        Through their Mentoring Program, Fostering Hope seeks to provide a “friend with purpose” for kids in care.

        If you are looking for a way to live out your faith in caring for those in need, you can make a difference for a child in care. Please get in touch to talk with about how to be equipped with training, connected with a child, and provided with ongoing support as you mentor. With just a few hours a month, you can significantly impact the life of a child in care for the better.

        Find out more or apply HERE | Reach out to Ellie (ellie@fosteringhope.net.au).

        Fostering Hope Mentoring Day, Hobart 14th October 2023

        Crossover Resource

        Baptism Week Ideas Guide

        15-22 October 2023

        National Baptism Week logo
        Crossover Baptism Week, Oct 2023

        National Baptism Week will be an opportunity for churches, youth groups, small groups and ministries across Australia to celebrate, explore and offer baptism. There are lots of ways to get involved.
        Check out the short explainer video and Ideas Guide, as well as baptism resources on our new Baptism Hub. Joining in is very simple – no need to register or report back – you can use Baptism Week in your own way.

        DOWNLOAD IDEAS GUIDE

        Resourcing your church, Baptism Week

        Next Steps Video series

        With Karl Faase at Olive Tree Media

        Olive Tree Media, want to resource and empower Christians to engage their friends and neighbours in conversations about faith. That’s why they partnered with Crossover and Baptist churches to resource and equip churches for National Baptism Week, 15th – 22nd October 2023.

        Especially designed for use in the lead-up to National Baptism Week, Next Steps is a quality resource suitable for churches, small groups and youth groups.

        It is designed so anybody can run it at any time within your church to share stories of faith, invite discussion and give people an opportunity to consider their ‘Next Steps’ when it comes to faith and life with Jesus.

        NEXT STEPS: BAPTISM WEEK PACK ($45)

        Examples of use

        ·      A 4-week small group series across the life of your church
        ·      Mid-week church-wide course – where people can all come to watch and discuss together
        ·      Run stand-alone groups facilitated specifically as a pointed discipleship tool readying people for baptism
        ·      As a series your church works through in your Sunday services

        WATCH: NEXT STEPS trailer

        Tralier of the Next Steps video - Olive Tree media

        Celebrate with Burnie

        Induction at Burnie Baptist

        The Coppin Family

        Burnie Baptist Church congregation invites you to join with us for the induction service of Pastor Matty Coppin.

        WHEN 2pm, Sunday 24th September, 2023
        WHERE Burnie Baptist Church, 59 Mount Street Burnie
        RSVP For seating and catering purposes by Friday 15th September.
        To Kathy Fogarty | 0408 340 110 | burniebaptist@bigpond.com

        You are also invited to a time of fellowship and refreshments following the service.

        Fun_raiser!

        Trivia Night at Gateway

        Time to have some fun at Gateway Baptist

        Gateway Baptist are hosting an evening fundraising event featuring trivia questions, fun, food and good company, and a silent auction with lots of goodies available!

        You, your friends and family are all welcome to join in and raise funds for Operation Christmas Child. It will be $10/person to participate.

        The Trivia Night will take place at 7pm on Friday 29th September 2023

        WHERE
        Artway Studio and Gallery, behind Gateway Church
        22 Wellington Street

        RSVP/MORE INFO
        By 25th September to help with catering.
        Jill Ashdown 0439 354 849 | Christine 0409 632 641

        Baptist Mission Australia

        Jit and Jan Yawan

        Lanternlight Ministries, Thailand

        JIT AND JAN YAWAN

        Several Tasmanian Baptist churches support Jit and Jan Yawan through Baptist Mission Australia. In the introduction to their latest newsletter, they write:

        We are so thankful for all of you who continue this journey with us as we continue to to seek to be hands, feet and voice of Jesus here in Sangklaburi in western Thailand.

        We are in the wet season and the three-month period of Buddhist Lent. In our attached newsletter there’s lots more information and links to a video and a booklet for special prayer for Thailand during this season. This season has similarities in every Buddhist country and community.

        Read More: DOWNLOAD YAWAN NEWS (1MB) >

        Staying Informed in the Asia Pacific

        APBF Digest

        Published three times/year the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation Digest is full of interesting articles about the work and thinking of Baptists in our region.

        The current issue is all about RELEVANCE in our current culture. The relevance of church, of youth ministry, of overseas missions, and of humanitarian aid. READ IT HERE (18MB) >

        August 2023 APBF Digest
        SUBSCRIBE TO APBF Digest

        Read More ReCharge!

        August/September 2023

        DOWNLOAD Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

        Recharge news September 2023

        ReCharge News July 2023

        Posted on

        ReCharge NEWS April 2023

        26th April 2023 | ReCharge News

        Click Item to Read

          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

          ReCharge News April 2023

          Posted on

          Gateway Baptist Church

          Gateway Baptist church
          Church Profile

          Gateway was once known as Memorial Baptist Church, and is one of Tasmanian Baptists’ oldest continuously used church buildings.

          Pastor Noel Eagling oversees a vibrant church which engages regularly with the local Launceston community.

          Read on for an overview of Gateway’s ministry by Linda Guy; the beginnings of Gateway as Reed Memorial Baptist Church; and the precious memories of a lifetime by Lee Campbell.

          Gateway Baptist: Jesus only, Mighty to Save
          JESUS ONLY | MIGHTY TO SAVE

          GATEWAY BAPTIST CHURCH

          OUR MESSAGE: Jesus Only, Mighty to Save
          OUR MISSION: In the heart of the city, with a heart for the people

          By Linda Guy

          Old church. Old people. Past our use-by date? Absolutely not!

          The current Gateway congregation is very aware and appreciative of its rich heritage in the faithfulness of previous generations. Gateway is a place of intersections: people connecting and then dispersing in service across the city, the state, the nation and the world.

          The faithful commitment to mission of those who came before, echoes into the present, and encourages us to continue the story.

          We can address our three priorities: These Walls, Within These Walls and Beyond These Walls.

          The present – where we are

          With 146 years of history behind us, where are we today? We are nowhere near the capacity of our beautiful heritage church. Many of us are not as young, or as capable, as we once were. We have just a few treasured families with young children. Our aging buildings present ongoing challenges for maintenance, and with equipping with ever-changing technology.

          We are small in number, small in resources, and limited in the manpower we can bring to ministries and projects. Yet we can address our three priorities: These Walls, Within These Walls and Beyond These Walls.

          We want to see our history echoing faithfulness through the present, and into the future.

          These Walls

          Beckie and Noel Eagling, Gateway Baptist Church
          Beckie and Noel Eagling

          Noel and Beckie Eagling, our pastors who joined us in 2019, have directed us through some changes breathing new life into our old walls.  Much needed repairs and painting by Mobile Mission Maintenance transformed our hall into an art gallery now known as Artway. Christian artists come and work in the space, and their paintings now decorate the walls.

          Visiting groups such as lacemakers, miniaturists and school students spend mornings engaged in creative activities. Evening painting sessions raise funds for missions.  A willing group of talented cooks provide lunches in this relaxed and inspiring setting. 

          There are plans to grow the Artway ministry through offering lessons. This will provide opportunities for people in the community to come and enjoy the process of creating an artwork.

          Within These Walls

          Within our walls there is warm fellowship, as people connect with, and support, each other through life’s difficulties, challenges and heartaches. The experience that comes with weathering the ups and downs of employment, and bringing up families in changing circumstances, translates to wisdom to be shared with those who are not so far through the journey.

          People are knitted together by their love for Jesus, and for each other.

          Many roles are quietly and efficiently carried out to help ministries and programs to run smoothly. Age is no barrier to continuing service or taking up new ministries. People gather in various groups for craft, or walking, or Bible study, or mentoring, or morning teas. They are knitted together by their love for Jesus, and for each other.

          Beyond These Walls

          Beyond our walls, our heart for mission is revealed.

          • We have a strong connection with a church in Thailand, forged through the sponsorship of children facilitated by Compassion.
          • A school in Haiti has commenced in the last four years through the efforts and connections of a retired couple.
          • A washing basket at the front of our church is filled with groceries that go to families with a member in prison.
          • Shoeboxes, 150 of them! were packed with donations and handmade items last year for Samaritan’s Purse.
          • Friday night markets are well received by our local community. 
          • Other people are involved with various agencies such as Barnabas Fund, City Mission, Gideons, Shekinah House, and Prison Fellowship, generously giving their time and energy to the good work of these organisations.

          Not too old to dream, we want to see our seats filled, our spaces spruced up and purposeful.

          We want to see our history echoing faithfulness through the present, and into the future.

          Linda Guy has been attending Gateway for the past 16 years and has appreciated the loving and supportive fellowship. She is a busy grandmother who enjoys retirement and currently serves on Church Council.

          Why “Reed Memorial” Church?

          Gateway Baptist - why Reed Memorial Church
          • Memorial Baptist Bible Study q896
          • Memeorial Baptist Band and Choir 1900
          • Memorial Baptist CE 1948
          • Memorial Baptist Church AKA Gateway Baptist

          The Church I See

          By Lee Campbell

          Looking back over the years at Gateway (formerly Memorial Baptist church), I see a church that has had a significant past in the life of Launceston and beyond.

          Our church celebrates 146 years of ministry this year, and it amazes me that God has allowed me to be a very small part of his greater picture for half of those 146 years! As an inner-city church, and due to its seating capacity, Gateway has been able to hold large, combined services, Evangelical Missions and many, many large events.

          My Father and Mother were always very involved in the ministry of the Church, as were my Grandparents. I remember my family being the first there of a Sunday morning to open the building, and the last to leave, such was the commitment. I have had the privilege of sitting under the teachings of 14 full time Ministers, and numerous interim Pastors since I was young.

          Early Memories

          Sunday School picnics at Paper Beach

          My first memory at our Church is Sunday School, held every Sunday before Church. In the 50’s and 60’s, the Sunday School was very active and even if the parents didn’t attend Church they would make sure their children went to learn about God.

          Every year there was a Sunday School Picnic at Paper Beach, a beach well known for its jellyfish! This didn’t seem to matter though, as the day was a family day, filled with all sorts of food, ginger beer, beach cricket, running races, and a small bag of boiled lollies to eat on the bus on the way home.

          Every year there was a Sunday School Picnic at Paper Beach

          A memorable annual event was the Christmas Social with games, items and of course an enormous supper consisting of homemade cream cakes, sandwiches and fresh fruit salad and cream! On the Sunday School Anniversary, the children sang and shared what they had learnt, each one decked out in a new outfit hoping for a book prize for their achievements.

          Events, and more events!

          Gateway Baptist

          Evangelists such as Hudson Taylor, Gordon Moyes and Bill Newman conducted meetings in the building, resulting in many decisions made for Christ. From the late 70’s, gospel concerts were regular events as artists such as David Meece, Larry Norman, Evie Tornquist, The Proclaimers and many, many more. As well, the Christmas and Easter Pageants included many people from outside the church, who came to hear the gospel and witness the stories of Jesus.

          From the late 70’s, gospel concerts were regular events

          Of course, there were also the Baptist Union Assemblies and Christian Endeavour Conventions. Three-course hot meals were prepared and cooked in the kitchen for all the delegates, with the help of other ladies from local Baptist Churches.

          Seeing the church with gratitude

          I can still see the long trestle tables with white tablecloths set out in the Hall, adorned with shiny cutlery and plates, while a lovely blazing fire burnt bright in the fireplace. There was always lots of talk and laugher at these meals as people formed new friendships.

          I am so grateful that the church I have been part of for 72 years has always made it a priority to preach God’s word and truth and to proclaim ‘JESUS, ONLY, MIGHTY TO SAVE’!!

          Our God truly is an awesome God. Give HIM the GLORY for ALL HE HAS DONE.

          Gateway Baptist Church, Lee and Ian

          Lee Campbell and her husband Ian have been very active in the life of Gateway over the years.  Their role nowadays is to uphold people in prayer and be an encouragement whenever they can.

          Read ReCharge

          June/July 2022

          Around the Churches: June/July 2022, North, Northwest and South
          Deep Thought: Courage to Make a Difference by Mark Wilson, ABM
          Ministry Profile: Matt Holloway, Westbury
          TB Growth: Hobart Vision Church
          Fostering: Your Church Can
          Our Youth: Hobart Baptist
          From the MD: Hope in the Dark Times

          Tas Baptist NEWS: June 2022, July 2022

          DOWNLOAD Recent Issues of ReCharge