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reCharge NEWS August 2024

ReCharge News August 2024

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    Pacific Baptist Leaders Conference

    Report from the Pacific
    Last week on 22-22 August, Stephen Baxter, Jenna Blackwell and Dan Hutchison travelled to Darwin for the Transpacific Baptist Leaders gathering.

    Jenna Blackwell provided the following report: 

    It was great to connect with brothers and sisters from NZ, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and each state in Australia — 32 participants in all.
    We gathered at Nungalinya College, which gave us a fantastic opportunity to hear how the college makes theological learning accessible for Indigenous peoples. We shared chapel with the college each morning and also enjoyed a bush tucker walk around their gardens (and were struck by the story of the Black Wattle tree ‘s ‘interesting facts’, as well as see fabulous Indigenous artwork.  
    The focus of the gathering was on church planting and leadership development, but included discussions on church revitalisation, discipleship, next generations, and women in leadership. We heard how a church in Christchurch used the disaster of the recent earthquake as an opportunity to reimagine their church space, creating a new space for people to work, worship and live. 
    We heard about some powerful Australian history from Elliot Keane who is Baptist Mission Australia’s First Nations Engagement Facilitator (Exciting New Appointment – Baptist Mission Australia ). He suggested a rephrasing about direction, based on his learning with Indigenous peoples – instead of asking “what’s next?” which is solution focus, a better question might be “which way?” which is looking at the direction, rather than the outcome. 
    Andrew Turner shared his perspectives on ‘Public Church’ and on how to make churches a safe space for newcomers and therefore minimise or re-direct the private (exclusive) nature and work that can be ingrained in churches. 
    What stood out most to me was how different the ‘Tasmanian way’ is, and how our small and relational nature is a gift to treasure and a strength to steward. The last gathering in NZ made a significant impact on us, and this time in Darwin we once again noticed a special affinity with our friends from NZ, who share our Tasmanian relational style of leadership, and relaxed, grass roots nature.  I was also struck by how we can create space for next generations to influence us with their voice (in individual churches and as a union) and how our internal self-critic voice can stop us from moving forward with God and participating in community, and, therefore, how important intentional invitation is (especially for women). Also about how incredible God’s creation is, and how much we can learn from the land and our Indigenous sisters and brothers.

    Changes at Hobart Baptist Church

    New Things for The Baxters
    With Stephen Baxter finishing up as Senior Pastor at Hobart Baptist on 1 September, and his already reduced his hours with Tasmanian Baptists, there are new things developing for him and Jenny.  

    In the immediate future, Stephen plans to visit the many regional Baptist churches, and is open to preaching invitations while he still Mission Director. (FYI There will be plenty of notice before he ends his tenure. He will not finish until after a new Mission Director is appointed.) Stephen is also exploring exciting possibilities which will take him beyond Tasmania.  

    Jenny will continue as the state leader for Tasmanian Baptists’ EmpowHer, have a place nationally with the Australian Baptist Women in Leadership delegated body, and further develop her fledgling book editing business, and coaching of female Christian leaders. 

    The Baxters will continue to live in Sandy Bay and maintain their membership at Hobart Baptist. Please pray for them as they continue this significant year of transition.

    Stephen and Jenny in Madrid visiting their daughter and son-in-law Alice and AJ, with grandchildren Koa and Gray.

    Longford Baptist Church

    National Redress Scheme Claim 
    In October 2023, Riverlands Baptist Church received notification that a claim had been lodged with the National Redress Scheme about an incident that happened in the 1960’s at a youth gathering, run by Longford Baptist Church at the old site of the Longford Tabernacle.  

    Our records confirmed that the alleged perpetrator, who is now deceased, was a member of the church, was involved in the youth program and did have the access described in the claim. After gathering more information, the National Redress Scheme has now ruled that the church is liable to redress this person’s actions.  

    The details of the claim are protected information under law and cannot be disclosed.  

    Everyone at Riverlands Christian Community (known formerly as Longford Baptist Church), feel very shocked and sad that this incident has occurred in our church’s past, and we feel deeply for the claimant. It’s our prayer that the claimant will have a sense of feeling heard, validated and will experience deep healing with the knowledge that the National Redress Scheme is upholding the claim.  

    Please uphold Riverlands Christian Community in your prayers as we grapple with this news as a congregation. We would also appreciate your prayers for God’s ongoing provision in helping us fulfil His future ministries through Riverlands Christian Community as we negotiate financing the Redress liability and the impact this may have on our strategic planning in the short to medium term. 

    September Muster

    10-11 September 2024 
    The next Muster is coming up in a few weeks. The aim of this Muster will be to better equip churches (pastors and leadership teams) with the relevant knowledge and skills for governance in church leadership. There will be sessions around governance, management, strategy, risk management, insurance, policies, the outworkings of policies, expectations, and culture.  

    Nick Hill from Baptist Insurance Services will provide information and answer questions on the topics of Risk Management, Policies and Insurance. This Muster is open to both pastors and leadership teams, so please be sure to invite your teams, especially to the Tuesday night if they cannot make the rest of the time. 

    When: September 10-11, 2024 
    Where: Riverlands, Longford 
    Cost: There is no cost to attend this Muster.  
    RSVP to Jenna Blackwell or Anna-Maree at info@tasbaptists.org.au with the names of those people attending from in your church.

    How to Tackle P*rn in your Church

    Thursday, 22 August, 12:30 – 2:00PM
    All church leaders are warmly invited to attend the upcoming Hobart Church Leaders’ Lunch – with guest speaker Dr Marshall Ballantine-Jones. 

    This lunchtime presentation will provide proven, practical Christ-focused resources to help people in churches, youth groups, schools and Christian communities get free of p*rn addiction and harmful use of sexualised media. Lunch will be provided by Loaves and Fishes ministry. 

    This huge problem in our society is also deeply impacting church communities. Many people feel trapped in compulsive shame and burdened with guilt. This event is designed to help equip attendees with grace-based solutions including a new small group resource, RESIST recovery program. 

    Dr Marshall Ballantine-Jones is an ordained Anglican minister and has conducted a PhD at the University of Sydney on the use and effects of pornography. After over 25 years of experience working with children, youth and families, Marshall has his own story that includes a journey of freedom from struggles and trauma. His passion is to see churches and Christian schools navigate the onslaught of sexualised media, escape negative behaviours and build resistance against future use. Marshall’s extensive research helped shape the recently launched group course RESIST recovery program. Marshall is a dynamic, inspiring communicator and highly sought after speaker. 

    WHERE: The Grace Centre, 11 Ralph Terrace, Rokeby, TAS 7019 
    COST: This is a free event thanks to sponsorship provided by Olive Road and the TAS Freedom Initiative. 
    RSVP by Friday, 16 August, PLEASE by email to jim@mandalahotels.com.au for catering purposes. Send attendee details , dietary needs, further questions, or for information.

    Pastors and Leaders Lunch

    Saturday, 17 August, 12:30 – 2:30PM
    Church Together Tasmania invites you to a Pastors and Leaders’ lunch, in partnership with Youth Alive, to hear Pastor Andy Harrison. Andy is speaking at Youth Alive’s Main Event and at this lunch he will be sharing on reaching the generations and how to raise up young leaders to grow and strengthen the local church.  

    Andy grew up in Hobart and is the leader of Planetboom—the youth ministry of Planetshakers Church, which cares for 4,000+ teenagers weekly. At 14 years of age, Andy dedicated his life to serving Jesus after a radical encounter with God and has a passion for pastoring and discipling young people of all backgrounds and cultures. 

    Where: The Deck, Crowne Plaza Hotel   
    Cost: Pastors and leaders purchase own lunch on the day  
    RSVP by email to Church Together 

    Circuit Breaker Training (Tools for Preventing D.V.)

    Saturday, 24 August 9:00AM – 5:00PM 
    Tools for Preventing Domestic Violence will equip people with a good working understanding of the nature and dynamics of domestic violence and will teach the tried and tested strategies for deep engagement with people wishing to put down their abusive behaviours.  

    Trainees can also be equipped to deliver the Circuit Breaker program in their community as a Trained Facilitator (satisfies all training) and is for people working in the community, the church or social service sector. 

    The Circuit Breaker Program will be offered in Southern Tasmania early next year. It’s a course for anyone who feels their temper is causing problems in their relationships. Circuit Breaker provides a safe space to learn new relationship tools so that ugly conflicts can be prevented nice and early. The focus is on managing anger and communicating and building intimacy. Since Circuit Breaker does not pretend to be a DV perpetrator program, it does not accept mandated referrals or provide evidence of attendance, or check-in with partners. In fact, it’s very important that anyone attending a Circuit Breaker course is there simply because they want to be the best version of themselves. 

    A Trained Facilitator’s role can lead small-group discussions throughout the ten sessions of a Circuit Breaker course. Facilitators work in pairs to ensure the group experience is a productive one, and that people can share safely, privately, and without fear of being judged. 

    Cost:  Training day is $95 for staff working in a paid capacity or $20 for those in a volunteer role. Pay at the event by cash or direct deposit.  

    For more information contact Matt at info@oliveroad.org.au or book online here.

    Tools for Preventing D.V. (Circuit Breaker Training)

    Volunteer Call 2025 Baptist World Congress

    7-12 July 2024
    Help make the 2025 Baptist World Congress a success! The 2025 BWC are looking for Australian residents to volunteer for exciting opportunities to serve international guests in a broad range of areas.  

    These opportunities include welcoming guests at the airport, venue check-in, and ushering, just to name a few! Visit the 2025 BWC website to learn more or to express interest in volunteering.

    NOTE: Early Bird registration fees to attend will increase on 30 November 2024

    Watch Mark Wilson, President of Asia Pacific Baptist Federation, share a special invitation to global Baptists to be part of the 23rd Baptist World Congress in Brisbane, Australia, in July 2025.

    Save the Date: Myanmar Sunday

    15 September 2024 
    All Tas Baptist churches should have now received information this week about Myanmar Sunday on 15 September. Alternatively, churches can choose any date before the end of the year. Join with churches all around Australia in our Stand with Myanmar campaign. 

    The campaign supports our 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.

    The campaign incorporates three suggested ways churches can take part in Myanmar Sunday: ACT, PRAY, GIVE 

    1. 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.

    2. 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.  

    3. 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.

    More information available on the dedicated Stand with Myanmar website or contact Fiona at info@tasbapsits.org.au.

    Stand with Myanmar

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      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. 

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      Converge 2023

      Comnverge 23 - Anthea Maymard reports on the annual event where leaders from Baptist churches in Australia visit Canberra to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. This year's focus was the Myanmar crisis.

      Advocating for Others

      Baptist Leaders, Converge23

      By Anthea Maynard, City Baptist Launceston

      Converge is an annual gathering of Australian Baptist representatives in Canberra to advocate on issues close to the heart of our movement and the represent the 1000+ churches nationally.

      This year, nearly 40 Australian Baptists from across Australia gathered for two days of lobbying and advocacy. Nicholas Alexander (Lifeway Devonport), Stephen Baxter (Mission Director & Hobart Baptist pastor) and I, Anthea Maynard (Team leader Launceston City Baptist) attended as delegates through the support and generosity of Tas Baptists.

      Key Objective

      The key objective was to elevate the ongoing and protracted crisis in Myanmar as a priority. We were asking for action from our elected representatives. Groups of four delegates from different locations met with members of parliament to introduce the situation. They then presented three asks and shared a personal story by a person from Myanmar.  With more than 20,000 Baptists from Myanmar in Australia, this is an important opportunity to support them. As well, we advocated as part of a wider, ecumenical effort (with the Catholic and Uniting Churches).  

      Our campaign “We Must Not Forget About Myanmar” has postcards outlining the three asks to Senator the Hon. Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs. These postcards will be available through Baptist World Aid and Australian Baptist Ministries (see below). We hope that 20,000 printed postcards will end up on the desk of the Foreign Minister.

      With different humanitarian crises happening around the world, the emergency for the people of Myanmar has fallen off the radar of the international community.  This is our opportunity to make a difference. The United Nations Humanitarian chief, Martin Griffiths recently said, ‘successive crises in Myanmar have left one third of the population in need of humanitarian aid’.

      Justice beyond ourselves

      This was my first experience of Converge. It was a unique opportunity to work alongside Australian Baptist representatives from diverse roles and locations to highlight the needs and recent experiences of the people of Myanmar.  It is my prayer awareness and support will grow, along with members of parliament noticing Christians advocating for issues justice beyond ourselves.

      Anthea Maynard with Converge delegates and an MP
      Anthea’s Lobby Group: Melissa Rule (BUV Head of comms), Biak Nei Xing (Coffs Harbour), Rev. Daniel Bullock (BUV Director of Mission and Ministries), Anthea, Sui Sangte Chung (Perth WA).

      In my group, there were two delegates from the Myanmar Baptist community. Sui, from Perth WA, has recently graduated from nursing. She arrived in Australia as a refugee with her mother at the age of eight. Sui shared of her recent trip to some refugee camps on the Indian border. Sui encountered stories from elderly ladies who had fled their villages due to airstrikes. This year, airstrikes have increased dramatically in Myanmar to a current total of 289. Stronger, focused sanctions are needed to limit the capacity of the Junta to trade.

      Biak was the other delegate, from Coffs Harbour NSW. She shared how her mother’s and father’s villages were burned to the ground in September this year. This was very distressing for her and her extended family.

      The overall response by parliamentary representatives was engaging and positive. The Myanmar delegates were encouraged, and grateful to raise their voice with other Australian Baptists.

      What to do next

      Myanmar crisis

      RAISE AWARENESS AT YOUR CHURCH Images and resources, available HERE
      PRAY FOR MYANMAR Myanmar Prayer Sheet (450KB)
      ADVOCATE FOR MYANMAR Email politicians; Order postcards INFO HERE >

      Anthea Maynard

      Anthea Maynard is the pastor at City Baptist, Launceston

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        Geoff Maddock Visits Tassie!

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

        Geoff and Sherry Maddock
        Geoff and Sherry Maddock

        READ MORE ABOUT MY DATES AND DESTINATIONS >

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

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

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

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

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

        Atrocities in Myanmar

        A call for prayer via Australian Baptist Ministries

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

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

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

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

        READ: Full press release >

        Riverland’s Ministries

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

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

        Grief Companion Training

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

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

        DOWNLOAD FLYER HERE

        What’s Going On – Summerhill

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

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

        Stand with the People of Myanmar

        FROM BAPTIST MISSION AUSTRALIA

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

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

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

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

        What’s Going on – City Baptist

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

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

        Find out more here > | City Baptist on Facebook >

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

        What’s Going on – Gateway

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

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

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

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

        Bible Study

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

         Artway            

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

        Walking Group

         Ladies 10am Thursday

        Baptist Basketball

        Saturday Evenings

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

        Easter Camp at Perth

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

        Perth Baptist Easter Camp, approx date 10940s

        READ MORE Perth Baptist Church Profile

        What’s Going On – Newstead

        Walk this Way - Newstead Baptist
        Walk this Way 

        2-4pm first Sunday of the month

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

        Life Groups

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

        In the Community

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

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

        Alpha at Newstead Baptist Thursday nights from 1st June 2023

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

        Mid-Year Assembly

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

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

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

        Program

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

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

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

        CROSSOVER Easter Resources

        FROM crossover.org.au

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

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

        watch ally & sally

        Read More ReCharge!

        April/May 2023

        DOWNLOAD Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

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        ReCharge News April 2023