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Around the Churches April to May 2025

Around the Churches header

Around the Churches April to May 2025

South

Citywide Baptist Church 

Anzac Day 
Citywide again hosted an Anzac Day in the Park at Lenah Valley. It was most successful with many people acknowledging their interest and thanks for what we do. Observing the people and families joining in the fun and games and crafts was encouraging, with strangers interacting with strangers, building an atmosphere of community and togetherness. 

Discovering Citywide 
We held another Discovering Citywide luncheon recently and had 16 newish people to Citywide attended as well as some of our leaders. At these events we present something of the history, our values and our vision, along with some foundational information and opportunities to get involved. It helps to give new people an overall feel for who we are and how we operate together in community. 

Mentoring 
We have launched a Mentoring program encouraging all our people to consider being mentored and/or to mentor, with an aim to facilitate growth.

Hobart Baptist Church

Vietnamese Church Celebrates 

On Thursday 22 May, Hobart Station Church celebrated its third Anniversary at Hobart Baptist Church. Hobart Station church is a small Vietnamese fellowship that meets at HBC.
Matt Henderson, David Knox and Heather Galloway were honoured to be special guests at the event, representing HBC. Guests and supporters travelled from Melbourne, Sydney and Vietnam to be part of the celebration. 

The small Vietnamese fellowship began in a home on the 22 May 2022 and by September 2022 were meeting regularly in the Soundy Lounge on Sunday afternoons.

Last year, HBC was the venue for the National Vietnamese Association Christian Conference with 200 delegates from around the world – amazing with a local church of four couples! 

North

City Baptist Church 

Engagement of Jenna & Bryce  
City Baptists joyfully celebrate the engagement of Jenna & Bryce. Their journey together has been one marked by growth, perseverance, and grace. They step forward into this new chapter with trust and hope. God has been faithful every step of the way, and we give thanks as we witness His hand in their story. 

Easter Family & Children’s Festival update  

We had the joy of participating in the Launceston Alive Children and Families Festival – an opportunity for the churches of Launceston to come together on Easter Saturday and bless the community with a free festival. Our team consisted of people from both Newstead and City Baptist, with Summerhill next door. We’re thankful to all those who participated in the ways they could. 

Interactive Craft and Storytelling Tent: We created a space where children and families could engage in Easter themed crafts while hearing the Easter story in an accessible and engaging way. The Lost Sheep books and activities were used.  

Hospitality and Refreshments: We provided simple healthy snacks, ensuring a welcoming presence for all visitors.  

Prayer and Encouragement Space: We created a gentle and inviting space where families could receive encouragement, prayer, and information about regional Baptist Churches 

Easter Take-Home Packs: We distribute small activity packs containing Easter- themed colouring sheets, a simple retelling of the Easter story, and an invitation to connect with Baptist Churches.  

Engaging Volunteers: We had seven volunteers to warmly engage with families, answering questions, and inviting participation in activities. Church members contributed financially and practically in creating the packs prior to the weekend and prayerfully engaging. Thanks for your prayers & generosity!!!

New Website 
Our new website and logo are finally complete. We’re thankful for the work of THINK in helping to get these off the ground. Feel free to look at our new website.

Perth Baptist Church

Perth Baptist recently celebrated a wonderful High Tea with a bunch of beautiful Women for Mothers Day. Comments from their Facebook page said it all:

‘Thank you, you all deserve a huge round of applause for making this day so special for the Mums!!! 💜, Picture🪻, Picture😋, Picture‘ 

‘Thankyou to all those involved in organising the High Tea and lovely afternoon‘

‘All the volunteers did an awesome job.’ 

Northwest

Ulverstone Baptist Church

Jesus is_____. 
Jesus himself once asked those around him, “Who do you say I am? (Mark 8:29) 

Over the Easter weeks and joining with the combined churches of Ulverstone UBC invited our community into a conversation regarding Jesus’ identity. This was a 5-week program that included a community BBQ in the main street of Ulverstone followed by a combined Good Friday service at the Soundshell in Fairway Park. United as a team of people across the churches of Ulverstone we gathered and together reflected upon the Easter message, prayed, and worshiped our Lord. 

Social Activities 
UBC Seniors continue to meet on the first Friday of the month for fellowship and morning tea. The have enjoyed guest speakers. These include, Rev Matthew Brooks Lloyd from the Ulverstone Christian Reformed Church sharing an Easter message of Hope. Also our very own Beth Miles spoke on “Remembering Mothers”. 

Our recent Men’s Events have included go-karting and indoor bowls and our UBC ladies have enjoyed a casual morning tea at the Berry Patch in Turners Beach and a Mother’s Day Dinner. These events create an opportunity to reach out, encourage and strengthen relationships. 

Around the Churches is a regular feature that brings news and events from Tas Baptist churches around Tasmania.

Around the Churches April to May 2025

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Around the Churches February to March 2025

Around the Churches February to March 2025

South

Citywide Baptist Church

Dinners Together 
Citywide has resumed its monthly Dinners Together for 2025. These continue to be great times of fellowship held in different homes, with a different mix of people and hosts each month. Guests bring something for the main course, while hosts provide desserts. The food is kept simple, and it works well. 

Annual General Meeting 
The AGM was held on 16 March, during which two new Trustees were added to the team and six new Elders joined in. The church was encouraged by the number of people willing to step into these responsible roles. Four new members were received, and three renewed their membership commitment. 

Reading the Annual Report, presented in the form of a Yearbook, brings great delight and encouragement as it reflects the breadth of all that Citywide does through its ministries. God’s surprises and blessings continue to be a source of joy. Praise Him! 

At the AGM, the church agreed to release Senior Pastor Matt Garvin for three days per week so he could take up the role of State Director. While this is a significant challenge, the church, in a spirit of generosity, seeks to bless Baptist churches across the State through his leadership. 

PHOTO: Nepalese Worship Team leading worship in the combined service prior to the AGM 

Another ongoing challenge involves the vacant block of land owned behind the Mornington premises. The church has been seeking God’s guidance on the best way to steward this land for His Kingdom. The proposal currently being explored is to develop an intentional community with multiple units to house people living with disabilities, women and children, and senior single women. It is an ambitious goal and a challenging commitment, pushing the church beyond its comfort zone. Prayers from the wider family are appreciated as the church seeks God’s will in this endeavour. 

Claremont Baptist Church

Claremont Baptist continues to experience growth and was delighted to welcome Steven, Glenda and Robyn into membership in February. 

In January, the church enjoyed a picnic at the newly developed Tolosa Park Reserve. The annual combined Men’s and Ladies’ Groups Breakfast also took place—it’s always a joy when friends and family are able to share in such events. 

Peter Shurley gave a wonderful evening of music during the launch of his new CD, Wait!, and also preached and performed again during the morning service. The church is thankful that God continues to gift people with the ability to compose new music. 

As the church becomes more unified as a multicultural gathering, it continues to be richly blessed and encouraged. There is anticipation for the celebration of Harmony Day on 23 March—naturally, food will be involved once again! 

PHOTO: Harmony Day display in the Stable outside the church

Hobart Baptist Church 

Filipino Pop-Up Restaurant
Members of the Real Talk! Bible study group at HBC—Karen, Mae, and Jing—recently found a creative way to give back to the church and express their gratitude for God’s goodness. Inspired to serve using the talents God had given them, the trio envisioned a pop-up restaurant event that would both introduce Filipino cuisine to the church community and raise funds to meet a practical need within the church. 

The idea took shape in early February, with the group deciding to focus on Filipino food. Mae, known for her skills in baking fresh bread, coconut bread, ube treats, and cassava cake, teamed up with Karen, who specialises in savoury dishes. Together, they formed a group chat with fellow Filipinos who regularly attend HBC and shared the vision for a “pop-up resto for a cause.” 

Each participant contributed a small capital amount—later reimbursed—to help cover initial costs. In total, approximately $450 was raised to purchase ingredients, utensils, and other necessities for the day. 

Momentum built quickly. The group efficiently organised roles, planned the menu, set prices, and arrived early on the day of the event to prepare. Working together in a cooperative spirit, the team sold out of all the food they had prepared. 

The event raised a total of $1,537, with $1,200 given as an offering to the church. The group expressed deep gratitude for the support they received from the HBC family, friends, and extended community. 

Reflecting on the experience, Jing said, “God is so good to us, and even as we try to give back to God, He blesses us again.”  

  • HBC news
    Filipino Pop-Up Restaurant team
  • Serving after the service
  • Filipino Pop-Up Restaurant contributors
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North

The Point Baptist Church

The Point was thrilled to witness three baptisms on 23 February at Greens Beach and to hear the powerful testimonies of those being baptised. 

The Gideons participated in the service on 9 March, sharing about their work spreading the Word of God. 

The Creation Discovery Centre has now welcomed over 6,000 visitors and has provided many witnessing opportunities. One such encounter involved a couple who visited in early March and stayed for two hours, openly sharing that they felt lost and were searching for something unknown. Pray that they come to know Jesus through the tracts and resources they received, having recognised that there must be a Creator. 

PHOTO: The Point baptisms at Greens Beach.

Northwest

Latrobe Church

With great joy, Latrobe Church witnessed the baptisms of Sharon and Eva on 16 February. It was a thrill to see these two women following their Lord’s example through the waters of baptism. There is much to thank the Lord for!

PHOTO: Sharon and Eva. There is much to thank the Lord for. 

On 9 March, the church held its harvest festival—a wonderful opportunity to share the abundance of food God has provided. Proceeds from the sale of goods, along with leftover items, were donated to Gran’s Van in Devonport, which supports those in need in the local area. 

PHOTO: Harvest Festival abundance on display

Ulverstone Baptist Church

With a theme inspired by the kids’ movie Inside Out and the phrase “Jesus is your source of JOY this Christmas,” Ulverstone Baptist Church participated in the Ulverstone Christmas Parade and was awarded the prize for Best Community Group Float. 

Following the parade, and in partnership with other Ulverstone churches, UBC band members had the joy of leading the community at the Ulverstone Carols held at the sound shell. 

The UBC family celebrated Christmas together on Christmas Eve and hosted a Christmas Day lunch for community members who otherwise would have spent the day alone. 

Leadership Summit 
A Leadership Vision Day retreat was held in March, with guest speaker Cam Buchanan. The event was open to anyone wanting to invest in UBC. The day focused on aligning vision for mission and equipping and empowering attendees for ministry. Four key biblical values were explored as foundational to church ethos: Mission, Fellowship, Service, and Discipleship. 

Kids Church, Men’s Events and Picnics 
UBC kids have been engaging in activity-based learning about creation, even painting their own mural of God’s creation on the church building. 

Meanwhile, the men gathered on the banks of the Forth River for a relaxed evening of fishing and a BBQ dinner. Monthly UBC picnics on Sunday afternoons continue to be well enjoyed. 

From the Pulpit 
Pastor Louis has recently been delivering a series titled Breakthrough, challenging the congregation to identify and move beyond the barriers that may be holding them back from growth, spiritual freedom, and the fullness of life. 

Around the Churches February to March 2025

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March Muster Focuses on Intergenerations

March Muster Focuses on Intergenerations

Last week’s Muster brought Pastors together from across Tasmania to focus on the need to grow young together as the Church.   

Tas Baptist churches offer a unique opportunity to foster intergenerational relationships, a crucial need in today’s increasingly individualistic society. Recognising this, Tas Baptists have made intergenerational community a key focus for 2025.  

Insights from Rev. Andy Mitchell 

Rev. Andy Mitchell, Director of Program Development and Lecturer in Practical Theology & Ministry at Whitley College, joined the two-day Muster to explore the role of intergenerational faith communities. 

What is an Intergenerational Faith Community?

Church Health and Pastor Support at Tasmanian Baptists, Jenna Blackwell, explains that an intergenerational faith community, ‘intentionally brings all generations together in mutual discipleship (learning and sharing), worship, and mission.

‘This approach fosters long-term faith formation, particularly helping younger generations stay connected as they transition into adulthood. 

‘Unlike multi-generational communities, where different age groups are present but remain segregated, intergenerational communities encourage relational interaction and contribute to each other’s faith formation. This nurtures lasting faith formation and challenges individualism, focusing on the health and growth of the whole church.

‘Young people are often seen as the church of tomorrow, but they are the church of today. The body of Christ requires all generations to work together; we need each other now. With long-term commitment, churches can foster a culture of intergenerational community that strengthens and enriches the whole congregation and the wider community’, said Jenna. 1

ABOVE: Insights from research like this Generation Z infographic from Generations Defined report by McCrindle 2024, were presented at Muster.2 

Why Build Intergenerational Communities?

Intergenerational Prayer Partnerships: A Success Story 

One inspiring example shared by Andy at the Muster was how a church he pastored introduced intergenerational links through prayer partnerships to strengthen community bonds. 

“This initiative created engagement at multiple levels. For older generations, it provided a framework for forming relationships with younger members. For parents, it meant a trusted adult outside the family was investing in their child’s spiritual journey. And for young people, it became a meaningful mentoring opportunity with an invested adult.” 
— Rev. Dr. Andy Mitchell, Whitley College

Feedback on the Muster

It is encouraging to be among a passionate team of pastors with a heart for their congregation from the youngest to the oldest, and also to hear their heart for the many in the wider community who don’t know Jesus. — Stephen Baxter  

It’s always good to be reminded how every voice is unique and important – we can all reflect God and point others to Him. I look forward to our churches actively working to welcome intergenerational connections. I am also reminded of the power of listening well. — Jenna Blackwell 

I really appreciated having Andy Mitchell join us from Whitley college, the work he had put into the sessions and the way in which he facilitated our dialogue. — Matt Garvin

It was a very tangible benefit of our emerging partnership with Whitley and through Boreham College and I am looking forward to the future. I also enjoyed, as always, just being together with friends and wrestling with what ministry looks like for us in Tassie. — Matt Garvin

I love catching up with other pastors at the muster to hear the work God is up to across our state. The content is always meeting me where I am as a pastor and where our church is at.  
— Dan Hutchison 

As pastors and leaders, we are all concerned and interested in how we can be best equipped for today and the future. The fast pace of life is best summed up in the buzzword Zoom because everything is changing so fast. For churches and church leaders, our heart is to be present. — Louis fife

The challenge is how to meet differing expectations from generation to generation. How to provide ministry and a space for all ages. Does our church provide an invitational presence and ease of community belonging? It is essential to ask what the Christian experience is in our church. — Louis fife

One of the conversations that impacted me is whether we are passionate about God – and does that come out in our worship? Whatever age or season of life we are in, authentic, passionate followers of Christ are hard to ignore. — Louis fife 

I liked the mentoring example provided and the failures as well, these are the most useful bits, I think. Made me think of whether we have the capacity to implement a targeted mentoring system. — Craig Hawkins 

For me, the March Muster was an important time, as we came together the discuss how we build up healthy inter-generational communities. I know I was not the only pastor present who has been thinking through this question a lot. — Matt Henderson 

My biggest take-away was the importance of recognising and celebrating what already is happening and looking to build off that. It’s so important to continue to search for ways to learn from one another. — Matt Henderson 

“It was inspiring to engage in conversations with leaders from across Tasmania about building intergenerational faith communities. The main takeaway was the importance of helping people recognise and develop empathy for the unique needs, stages, and strengths of each generation. — Anthea Maynard

Ultimately, we all share the goal of people knowing and following Jesus and nurturing an intergenerational community defined by mutuality, reciprocity, and equality in relationships. This journey requires intentionality, wisdom and patience. I’m keen to put knowledge into practice in my context.
— Anthea Maynard

  1. Framing document on ‘Intergenerational Faith Community’ written for Tasmanian Baptists 2024 and presented at Muster.  ↩︎
  2. McCrindle (2025) Generation Z infographic from Generations Defined report, McCrindle.com.au  https://mccrindle.com.au/resource/infographic/generation-z-infographic ↩︎

March Muster Focuses on Intergenerations

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ReCharge NEWS July 2023

26th July 2023 | ReCharge News

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    NCLS Webinar for Leaders

    Thriving and Resilient Leadership, 11am and 7.30pm Wednesday 2 August 2023

    NCLSLeadershipWebinar, 2nd August 2023
    WEBINAR FREE TICKET

    NCLS Research presents a webinar on “Thriving and Resilient Leadership: Latest findings and reflections on resilience, fulfilment and thriving in church leadership post-COVID”.

    This webinar explores how Australian church leaders are coping, and what factors contribute to their resilience. Findings are based on the results from the 2021-22 NCLS Leader Survey by NCLS Research.

    You will discover:

    • What does thriving look like and what is burnout?
    • How has it changed in Australian church leadership over the past five years? Are current practices sustainable?
    • What are the personal foundations contributing to resilience and sustainable leadership?
    • Practical ministry implications: Case studies and guiding principles for leaders.

    Speakers

    Sam Sterland, Senior Researcher of NCLS Research, will present research findings on leader wellbeing and resilience, and responses to COVID-19.

    Guest speaker Tim Dyer will provide his reflections on the implications of these findings for ministry and mission.

    Youth Alive Undivided

    NORTH: 6pm 18th August | NW: 6pm 19th August | SOUTH: 6pm 25th August

    BOOK NOW
    VOLUNTEER

    In August, Youth Alive are running “Undivided” – three regional youth gatherings. They would love to invite your youth ministry and young people!

    Youth Alive’s mission is to reach young people with the message of Jesus. They believe these events will see youth ministries united, faith ignited, momentum gained, and young people respond to the Gospel!

    Outreach events are a great way to unite young people, reach youth, and share the truth of Jesus. At every one of these events attendees will be invited to a local church or youth ministry as a next step of faith. They would like to partner with you to help reach the next generation.

    The Youth Alive team are building volunteer teams for each of these events. If you would like to volunteer, please click the button, below.

    Winter Heartlands

    EH Heartlands News - EmpowHer

    Heartlands, the quarterly e-news for women, was released last Friday 14th July.
    There’s lots of good reading here >

    Day of Courage well-grounded

    Day of Courage Registrations are OPEN
    Sat 18th November, ALL WOMEN WELCOME!

    Australian Baptist Women ends
    Find out what happened, and what happens next.

    Heart of God-square

    Being Transformed
    Tuning into the heart of God. By Jenna Blackwell.

    Villain-Origin Story
    Or testimony in-the-making? By Maddie Mandall

    SUBSCRIBE TO HEARTLANDS

    Pastors’ and Families’ Muster

    11th-13th July, Devonport

    The July 2023 Muster was held at Oldaker Christian Church in Devonport. Here, pastors and their families found a comfortable space which was suitable for music ministry, teaching, eating and a great children’s program.

    During the Muster, guest speaker Bree Mills explained her work around the idea of “micro-church”. This included how we might better disciple people, by adding small faith-based communities to our local church contexts. Read Bree’s article about Missional Leadership >

    Wednesday afternoon free-time, brought several families together as they headed up to Leven Canyon to enjoy a bushwalk, and one another’s company.

    Thanks must go to Jenna Blackwell for organising the Muster; Bree Mills for coming from Melbourne to speak; Bryce Roberts and Nicole Mayall for caring for the children; and David Pearson and Oldaker Christian Church for their excellent hospitality!

    L to R: Bree Mills; Worship team; Leven Canyon walk; Everyone; Michael Henderson; Bryce and Nic are thanked.

    Some Impressions of the Muster

    • Putting missional intent into all my “activities” can transform them.
    • Great connection and relationship.
    • The overall highlight for me was being with other pastors and families and having a chance to share life.
    • Be Discipling.
    • Motivation to support pioneers and keep them linked onto and supported by the church.
    • Being Together, kids and all. To be intentional Living in the tension of a ‘hybrid’ model.
    • Good tools with implementation guidance with safeguards are always welcome.

    EmpowHer Day of Courage

    Registrations now open!

    On Saturday 18th November, all women are welcome to attend the Day of Courage at Riverlands Longford. The speaker is Karen Wilson, President Baptist World Alliance Women, and CEO of the Gobal Leadership Network Australia. She will explore the topic of being well-grounded.

    Already there is interest across the state, from a broad cross-section of the community. This will be a special day – not to be missed! Postcards are now available to invite your friends and family. If you cannot see them at your church, contact empowher@tasbaptist.org.au.

    Registration covers morning tea, lunch and all materials.

    EARLYBIRD: $45/person – Until 30th August
    FULL PRICE: $55/person – From 31st August

    INFO/REGISTER HERE
    Day of Courage 2023, register now

    SparkLit Awards Night

    Thursday 31st August

    The 2023 Australian Christian Book of the Year, Young Australian Christian Writer and Australian Christian Teen Writer Awards will be announced and prizes presented during this year’s SparkLit Awards Night on Thursday 31 August. Join in online to celebrate the courage and endeavour of Australian Christian writers! 

    Register now to receive the livestream link (free of charge) to watch the in-person event at St Alfred’s Anglican Church, Blackburn North.

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

    Intergenerate Conference 2023

    9am-4:30pm, Friday 18th August

    There is a great national conference coming to Hobart (via satellite). This year the theme is: A Gospel for all Ages.

    The conference comes highly recommended by Anthea Maynard (City Baptist, Launceston):

    “I have been part of the national intergenerational resourcing group for a number of years. The speakers are excellent and have practical and thoughtful ways to explore intergenerational faith formation and community engagement. “

    Find out more at the Intergenerate Facebook page >

    Intergenerate - a Gospel for all ages

    NCLS Update

    Checking-in on your church’s health

    Did you know you don’t need to wait five years for the next National Church Life Survey to listen to your church?

    The Church Life Survey, by NCLS Research, is one of the church survey tools available to local churches and can be done anytime. It is an opportunity to check-in regularly and receive updated feedback and insights into church health and vitality, including your congregation’s experience of church life, discernments for the future and willingness to be involved.

    Both paper and online survey options are offered, with a quick turnaround of results. After completion of the Survey, churches will receive a Church Life Profile that provides insights into the life and experiences of church attenders and provide indicators of church health and vitality which can inform and equip future directions for ministry and mission.

    For more information, please visit ncls.org.au/churchlifesurveys

    NCLS Survey - Listen to your church attenders at any time

    Hold Fast Outreach

    The Point are hosting a 25-day Texan Partnership Mission

    Hold Fast Outreach at The Point, ReCharge News July 2023

    Four Texans have arrived in Beauty Point, three of whom have partnered with the church ten times in the last 14 years! The outreach began on 23rd June, and will continue through until 19th July.

    There will be a number of events ranging from Men’s, Women’s, and Kid’s outreach events, including a holiday club and basketball clinic. there will also be Bible studies and several family events.

    CONTACT Rachelle Hawkins for more info on 0409 272 877. 
    DOWNLOAD the brochure, which includes a short bio on the Texans.

    All are welcome to come and be part of it!

    School Chaplains

    Positions Vacant with Scripture Union Tas

    Provide emotional, social, and spiritual support to school communities…

    Scripture Union has multiple chaplaincy positions available across Tasmania. Chaplains provide emotional, social, spiritual, and often practical support to school communities. They are in the prevention and support business: helping students find a better way to deal with issues ranging from family breakdown, loneliness, depression and anxiety.

    SU Chaplaincy models the compassion and unconditional love demonstrated and taught by Jesus, as recorded in the Bible. Chaplains will be sensitive to, respectful of, and available to all regardless of beliefs or religious affiliations. All SU Chaplaincy staff and volunteers are champion a child-safe culture, and commit to the highest standards of safety and care in their work with children, young people and families.

    See positions available in Tasmania >

    Read More ReCharge!

    June/July 2023

    DOWNLOAD Recent (PDF) Issues of ReCharge

    Recharge news July 2023

    ReCharge News July 2023

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    Missional Leadership

    Bree Mills Missional Leadership

    reImagine Church

    Leadership For a Changing World

    At the July 2023 Pastors and Families Muster guest speaker Bree Mills spoke about her work and research with micro churches, and what it means to be a missional leader.

    Leadership in churches is evolving in response to an increasingly complex world. Traditional leadership models, including corporate strategies, are revealing their limitations. While we might be growing resistant to the term “missional” from overuse, missional leadership is gaining traction in academic and practical ministry contexts, demonstrating it has some valuable insights to offer to our current circumstances.

    What is missional leadership?

    Missional leadership reframes a leader’s role by shifting from organizational leadership to participating in the broader mission of God.

    It directs our attention away from budgets and buildings, and towards observing and engaging in God’s work around us. According to Nelus Niemandt, missional leadership involves the “the Spirit-led transformation of people and institutions by means of meaningful relationship to participate in the mission of God.”[1]

    This approach not only models the leadership of Jesus, it resonates with the aspirations of young leaders who seek to make purposeful impacts in their world.

    In my opinion, there are five elements of missional leadership:

    1. It is Spirit-Led

    “Missional” often spurs images of something action-orientated. Yet, missional leadership is primarily fuelled by a deep abiding in Jesus (John 15). This deep connection shapes, empowers, and directs the missional engagement.

    To participate in the mission of God we must first know him deeply, seek to discern where is already at work, and then engage in ways he leads us to.

    2. IT is change-orientated

    It is all about transformation. We are constantly desiring to change and to grow as disciples of Jesus, to be transformed into the likeness of Christ.

    Not only should we desire this for ourselves, but for our churches and our communities. We are invited to be agents of His change in our community, working for His justice and mercy as we abide in Him (Micah 6:8).

    3. IT is both individual and communal

    This style of leadership is not for the individual superhero wanting to make a name for themselves. Missional leadership thrives in collaborative teams, driving transformation in individuals and institutions.

    It recognises that the church can change and has continued to change throughout the centuries. Missional leadership is concerned with the interplay of both people and institutions.

    4. IT prioritises people over programs

    Programs do not bring about life change, people do. Missional leadership prioritizes authentic relationships over mere programs. It acknowledges that people drive genuine life change rather than initiatives.

    Programs support relationships but they don’t take the place of them.

    Missional leadership prioritizes authentic relationships over mere programs
    5. IT results in purpose-driven action

    Missional leadership helps people to participate in the mission of God in tangible ways. Not just by praying for or paying for someone else somewhere else, but by engaging in small ways in the here and now. This style of leadership believes God calls every person to be a missionary where they live, work and play.

    Every person is gifted and skilled for the work God has prepared for them to do (Eph 2:10), missional leadership release people into that purpose. 

    A redefinition

    Missional leadership helpfully redefines church leadership, emphasizing a Spirit-led approach, openness to change, the value of relationships, and the empowerment of individuals to fulfill their purpose in God’s mission.

    By embracing these principles, we can navigate the complexities of our changing world and foster vibrant, impactful communities of faith.

    Bree Mills is an ordained Anglican minister and doctoral student in the area of Missional Leadership, focusing on innovative leadership in the Australian context. Until the end of 2020, she was Senior Associate Minister at Glen Waverley Anglican Church, Melbourne. Now, along with her husband and kids, they are part of a new micro church network church plant and lead a community called The Village. She loves to read, wakeboard, and go for long walks in new places, preferably near the ocean!
    bree@micromovements.com.au

    [1] C. J. P. Niemandt, “Discerning Spirituality for Missional Leaders,” in Leading in a VUCA World: Integrating Leadership, Discernment and Spirituality ed. J. Kok and S. C. van den Heuvel (Switzerland: Springer Open, 2019).

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    June/July 2023

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    Deep Thought March 2023

    Being Family Together

    Deep Thought – A bi-monthly feature in reCharge

    Being Family Together

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

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

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

    Faith and passion

    Speakers at the No Limits Conference

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

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

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

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

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

    Today’s challenge

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

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

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

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

    Being family together

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

    By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

    John 13:35 (NIV)

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

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

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

    More Deep Thought

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

    Read ReCharge

    February/March 2023

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    Being Family Together