Tag: Riverlands

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Around the Churches, Oct-Nov 2023

Around the Churches October-November 2023

This is the final Around the Churches for 2023

North

RIVERLANDS, Longford

Stay and Play teaparty

Stay and Play (playgroup) recently held an all ages tea party at Riverlands on 26 October.  It was attended by little people with their parents/guardians and grandparents and some Riverlands congregational people.  There was lots of yummy morning tea and play and chatter.  

Associate Pastor

At our recent members meeting held 29 October, 2023, there was a unanimous decision to renew Liam Conway’s employment contract as Associate Pastor at Riverlands.  We are excited to see what God’s ministry through Liam and his wife Hannah, will bring for Riverlands and the wider community of Longford.  We feel very blessed that they are part of our Riverlands family.

Driveway resurfacing

Riverlands recently had a successful government grant which has enabled us to proceed with resurfacing our driveway.  This will improve access and safety for vehicles as they enter and exit our carpark.

Riverlands driveway, before and after; Around the Churches October-November 2023
Riverlands Driveway: BEFORE (driving in), and AFTER (driving out)

Day of Courage

We at Riverlands were pleased to host the EmpowHer Day of Courage on Saturday 18th November. Over 120 women from many denominations attended, enjoying a wonderful day of encouragement and fellowship. Guest speaker, Rev. Karen Wilson, also launched the Tasmanian cohort of the global Women’s Leaders Network on the day.

READ Riverland’s Church Profile >

PERTH

Perth Baptist Church is a place where we are honouring the church of the past, caring for the church of today, building the church of tomorrow. 

Celebration services

There are so many great parts of our church, and so many great people that make this church a wonderful place to be.  Celebration Services take place whenever a 5th Sunday occurs in the month. On 29th October, we dedicated our celebration to Jesus. Following the service, a potluck luncheon was enjoyed.

Community activities

Our Hearts & Craft Group, and Men’s Group, continue to foster strong bonds of fellowship and friendship among our members. Our commitment to reaching out to the community remains steadfast through our weekly Bread Run and the Sunday Café.

Once again this year, we successfully prepared and sent 100 shoeboxes as a part of Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child.

We had a Rock ‘n’ Roll night on November 11th, with our local Elvis!

Perth Baptist Rock n roll night

Farewell Peter

It is with a heavy heart that we remember our dear friend Peter Wellard from Eskleigh, who peacefully joined his Lord on Monday, October 23rd. Despite battling a debilitating illness, Peter cherished attending worship at Perth Baptist, and his absence will be keenly felt.

Christmas is coming!

Preparations are underway for Annual Community Christmas celebration in Perth on December 16th.  This will be a great event to reach and connect with the community. Anyone from the local Baptist churches is welcome to attend.

Most exciting of all though is the commencement of a weekly prayer meeting just before church each Sunday!

READ Perth’s Church Profile >

THE POINT, Beauty Point

Praising God

Our founding pastor Ray Hawkins and his wife Mary have moved into full-time care accommodation at Beaconsfield Hospital. Visitors are welcome.

Dempsey Horton, youth leader form Texas, The Point Baptist, Around the Churches October-November 2023

We are praising God for growth in the church and an active youth program headed by Dempsey Horton on a 12 month stint from Texas. In late October the young people enjoyed a bonfire night at Holwell, and are leading monthly youth services.

Our secretary Stephen Clark has had important interactions as chaplain of the local Coastal Patrol.

Women from The Point stand shoulder-to-shoulder at the Day of Courage

READ The Point’s Church Profile >

Around the Churches October-November 2023

GEORGE TOWN

George Town Baptist church building

Focussing on Children

We are working very hard to continue with the task of reaching those who are unchurched and uninitiated into the things of Christ. 

Earlier this year, we established a Sunday School program for the few children who occasioned our Sunday Services, and over time it has continued to grow.  We are the only church in town that offers Sunday School, and as a result, new people have come to the church simply because of that.  It is easy to tell that they have little understanding of what the gospel is all about, and we have been careful to allow them to “soak it in”. 

All year long, we have declared 2023 to be “The Year of the Child”, and welcome children from the pulpit each and every Sunday.  The first song is always geared to children, and now, the children are preparing presentations to bring where they sing and perform actions to some of the songs themselves. 

We are using the young people as ushers for receiving the offering prior to dismissing them to their class for the day.  We have been able to add a couple of new workers, but to succeed we will need to double the staff.  Soon, we won’t have room enough in our small building, and will have to find ways to expand. 

Our other outreaches are functioning well, but reaching the youngest in our town brings the greatest joy of all. 

READ George Town’s Church Profile >  

WESTBURY

Both the Gospels of Matthew and Mark record the two greatest commandments: To love the Lord your God with all your heart, and all your soul and all your mind and all your strength … and to love your neighbour as yourself (Matt 22:378-39; Mark 12:30-31). A tough call but nothing too untoward or controversial.

Far tougher are the words recorded in Matthew where Jesus told his disciples “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matt 20:18-20)

Having a go

As Christians we’ve been commanded to ‘go and make disciples’ and Westbury Baptist Church is seeking to have a go. Our new pastor Matt Holloway, and Lacey, called in April 2022, have rolled up their sleeves and they along with support from the church congregation are seeking to have a determined ‘slash’. There’s a common story of declining church numbers across many congregations in Tasmania and God willing, we intend to keep our church open.

Without fail, Matt’s sermons focus on this mandate and the church has over the past year set in place a number of programs to make the vision of ‘making HIM better known’ a reality in the Westbury Community.

Westbury Baptist, Around the Churches October-November 2023
mainly music; Westbury Baptist tent at the Westbury Show

Here is what’s happening:

  • Lacey heads up an enthusiastic team delivering ‘Mainly Music’ to preschool aged students and their carers/parents.
  • Nancy Morgan and her team deliver a fortnightly ‘Kids Club Program’ to primary aged kids in the local community.
  • Mary Baker and Matt Holloway have organised ‘Movie Nights’ for kids and their families in the Church.
  • Weekly ‘Fellowship Groups’ have been re-invigorated, with the latest study focussing on ‘discipleship’.
  • Mary Baker has a weekly Chat ‘n Choose meeting for women interested in crafts.
  • The Men’s 8 Ball competition led by Syd (master cue) West and Roger (pockets) Reinmuth have plans to attract local men to the church.
  • Matt is working towards forming a Pastoral Care Group of volunteers.
  • And finally, Ken Green and helpers had a presence at the local Westbury Show on 11 November!

We value your prayers

We are not a youthful congregation. But we are focussed, and if God intends, we seek to build the church in Westbury and be a witness to the hope we have in Jesus.

Leadership Group, Westbury Baptist Church

Around the Churches October-November 2023

Northwest

WYNYARD

Caring for those in need

JUST GIRLS enjoyed a day out in Devonport recently when they visited Home Hill, the historic home of Joe and Enid Lions. Then they went on to some retail therapy at the Christian book shop.

The Hub continues to provide food items to those in need on Mondays and Fridays each week.

Our church and Chat n Choose have sent 253 Samaritans Purse Shoe boxes this year.

Wynyard Baptist Church

READ Wynyard’s Church Profile >

ULVERSTONE

The Bible Society

It was a joy to host and join with the churches and community groups of Ulverstone, raising awareness and fundraising for the Bible Society with their annual Festival of Word and Song. A collection was taken up with this year’s funds supporting aid work in Syria and Türkiye.

Social Activities

Our seniors continue to meet on the first Friday of each month to enjoy fellowship, morning tea, sing, and listen to several guest speakers.

Both ladies and men have enjoyed a breakfast over the winter months with guest speakers, Bronwyn Waterhouse and Peter Bennet sharing their heart.

Our UBC men have also continued to enjoy their monthly Men’s Events.

October Prayer Gatherings

Throughout the month of October each Monday evening we used our regular prayer gathering evenings to stand in the gap and pray specifically for prayer needs within our church family.

Father’s Day

This Father’s Day, we supported the work of Mission Aviation Fellowship and raised a total of $1850.00. This money will assist in fuelling life-saving flights in some of the worlds most isolated communities and will also give an opportunity for people to receive the Good News of God’s love.

Kids Church

Having our UBC kids in our service is simply delightful. In October our Kids Church kids took over the service, sharing what they had been learning and doing throughout the year. This year they took part in filling shoe boxes for Samaritan’s Purse and were active in dedicating the boxes in our service.

From the Pulpit

Over the past months we have enjoyed been challenged by the teachings of Pastor Louis, Lyn McKay, Greg Venz, Laurie Rowston, Stephen and Jocelyn Head, Ken Collyer and Nerrelie Cann. Listen to UBC sermon podcast >

BURNIE

The Burnie 10
Sunday, 29th October
Burnie Baptist opened up for athletes for the ‘Burnie 10’. 

This is an annual opportunity to show hospitality to local, national and international runners, provide a secure place for personal belongings, and chat to the runners as they come in before, and also after, the race when recovery refreshments were provided.

View of Burnie; Around the Churches October-November 2023
A view over Burnie

Around the Churches October-November 2023

South

CITYWIDE

Mornington/Lenah Valley/Nepali/lEVENDALE

Church Camp

At the end of September, 140 people attended our annual Church Camp at Poatina – a well-serviced spot to get away to.  One of the highlights was our annual Nepal vs Rest of the World soccer game. It was won this year by The Rest of the World – surprisingly!   

Matt Garvin challenged us with some fresh thoughts from his new book (not released yet) about true community, and what is the Biblical expression of the Gospel? – based on Jesus’ prayer in John 17. 

Citywide Baptist - church camp and Mal Garvin memorial service; Around the Churches October-November 2023

Mal Garvin

A major event for Citywide was the death and Memorial Service for Mal Garvin.  What a man of God he was!  What a legacy he has left!  And what influence he has left in many lives.
Citywide Mornington was full, with around 300 people attending and staying on for lunch.

Empower Her Day of Courage

Many of our ladies attended the Day of Courage at Longford.  They prepared the prayer stations for the Baptist women’s global Day of Prayer. 

Mission Trip to Nepal

Pastor Paul Rai from our Nepali congregation has been ministering in Nepal through the month of November, particularly regions in the South West and South East where our mission focus is to support the rural pastors.  He conducted 15 baptisms, led several seminars, taught and encouraged hundreds of pastors, leaving a trail of blessing behind him.  Citywide has been praying daily in his itinerary, for safety, protection and anointing. 

READ Citywide’s Church Profile >

CLAREMONT

Open Day

Our members were very busy over the past few months growing seedlings, succulents, bulbs and other shrubs. These were in preparation for another Open Day in October, when our community could drop by, enjoy a free sausage sizzle and a cuppa in the tea room. We sold the plants, seeds and some craft.

Torrential rain made for a soggy BBQ, however indoors was warm and welcoming.  There was a lovely atmosphere and it was good to spend some time chatting to folk who might usually just walk on by. We trust the seeds sold  will be seeds sown for the kingdom. 

Claremont Baptist church

New growth

This past month we were delighted to welcome Hazel Mohan into membership. It was also a blessing to baptise Ellie Fitz-Gerald. 

ICC* members have been joining us for worship services and have brought a breath of vitality and enthusiasm that has enhanced our worship. We are learning Hindi words to old favourite songs, and the influx of under 18’s has reinvigorated the Kidz Klub.

We look forward to growing and maturing in faith together. 

READ Claremont’s Church Profile >

*Inter-Cultural Church

Around the Churches October-November 2023

HOBART

Long Table Banquets

On Sunday 22nd October, Hobart Baptist church was again the venue for the monthly Long Table Banquet. This time featuring Burmese (Karen) food. Thanks to Kelvin (host), Elle (event organiser), and Say Wah (chef) for all their work!

Hpbart Baptist Church long table; Around the Churches October-November 2023
Long Table Banquet – Burmese (Karen)

Youth on Sundays

The youth meet for Bible study and prayer during the 10am service most Sundays. This lilvely session is ably led by Kelvin Smith and Scott Ambrose. The group has gradually grown and is now hosting up to 15 youth!

OCC shoe boxes

We had our shoebox packing day for Operation Christmas Child on Saturday 28th October. The boxes were then prayed for during the 10am service, and sent on their way on Sunday 29th October. This year our congregation contributed 32 shoeboxes.

Karen Wilson visits

Rev. Karen Wilson

We were pleased to host President of the Baptist World Alliance Women, Rev. Karen Wilson on Sunday 19th October after she had spoken at the Day of Courage at Riverlands.

Karen shared her wisdom on “Seeing Differently”, based on the story about Elisha’s servant whose eyes were opened to see the hillsides surrounded by chariots of fire, as told in 2 Kings 6.

READ Hobart’s Church Profile >

Around the Churches October-November 2023

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October/November 2023

Around the Churches October-November 2023

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Around the Churches October-November 2023

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Assembly: Tasmanian Baptists Get Together

ANNUAL ASSEMBLY 2023

ABOVE Those gathered at the annual Assembly, held at Riverlands Longford, 21st October 2023

We are Tasmanian Baptists

This year’s Annual Assembly was well-attended on Saturday 21st October at Riverlands Longford.

Instead of the usual Friday/Saturday schedule, delegates from our churches met on Saturday only, starting a little earlier than usual. Evidently, this caught some by surprise!

Annual Assembly 2023 – Report

By Alan Firth, Claremont

Over the years I have learned that travelling to and from Assembly is a great catch up with fellow travellers, and this time there were four of us travelling together. We arranged to start at the usual time of 7:30am, and we had a good journey up the Midlands Highway.

When we arrived, people were milling around collecting communion elements and settling down for the session. Whilst it was not the usual start, it was good to be celebrating communion with others from our Churches across the state.

It was not until someone referred to the previous music, and I checked the Assembly papers on my laptop, that I realised we had missed a second implementation of daylight savings! Oh well, at least we will not need to thoroughly read Assembly papers to ensure we don’t miss the second coming!

Highlights of the Day

A clear highlight was to learn of initiatives attempted in some of our fellow churches. These times were both encouraging and informative.

For me, the catching up in the breaks with individuals from across the Tasmanian Baptist community is also a highlight as it is really our only opportunity to do so.  For these reasons alone, I struggle to understand why it seemed not all of our churches were represented.

October Assembly 2023; People from all over the state connected; Several speakers spoke during the day, including Jenny Baxter
People from all over the state connected; Many speakers presented, including Jenny Baxter re women’s ministry.

Business conducted, in-brief

* All nominations for positions were elected uncontested and endorsed. These included two new Council members: Craig Hawkins (The Point); and Hazelyn Mohan (Claremont).
* Excellent briefings took place in developments in various areas. This included including the training of pastors and insurance changes.
* Assembly endorsed the tweaking of responsibilities in light of operational and staff circumstances.
* In particular we welcomed the reappointment of Rodney Marshall. He has the new title of Operations Manager.
* We also welcomed the continuation of Stephen Baxter as Mission Director, albeit with a reducing availability and a flexibility over the coming years. This will enable an unhindered search for his eventual replacement.

As well . . .

We had a lovely (hearse-transported!) lunch, were led by skilled chairman Scott Ambrose, and posed for a group photo.

Indeed, we dealt with business so efficiently and effectively, with the reward being an early release! The wild weather forecast for the day occurred well after we were all home.

Clearly God blessed our family time with Him.

Alan Firth

Alan Firth, Claremont Baptist

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ReCharge NEWS April 2023

26th April 2023 | ReCharge News

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    Geoff Maddock Visits Tassie!

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

    Geoff and Sherry Maddock
    Geoff and Sherry Maddock

    READ MORE ABOUT MY DATES AND DESTINATIONS >

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

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

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

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

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

    Atrocities in Myanmar

    A call for prayer via Australian Baptist Ministries

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

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

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

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

    READ: Full press release >

    Riverland’s Ministries

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

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

    Grief Companion Training

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

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

    DOWNLOAD FLYER HERE

    What’s Going On – Summerhill

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

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

    Stand with the People of Myanmar

    FROM BAPTIST MISSION AUSTRALIA

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

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

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

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

    What’s Going on – City Baptist

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

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

    Find out more here > | City Baptist on Facebook >

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

    What’s Going on – Gateway

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

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

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

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

    Bible Study

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

     Artway            

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

    Walking Group

     Ladies 10am Thursday

    Baptist Basketball

    Saturday Evenings

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

    Easter Camp at Perth

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

    Perth Baptist Easter Camp, approx date 10940s

    READ MORE Perth Baptist Church Profile

    What’s Going On – Newstead

    Walk this Way - Newstead Baptist
    Walk this Way 

    2-4pm first Sunday of the month

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

    Life Groups

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

    In the Community

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

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

    Alpha at Newstead Baptist Thursday nights from 1st June 2023

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

    Mid-Year Assembly

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

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

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

    Program

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

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

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

    CROSSOVER Easter Resources

    FROM crossover.org.au

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

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

    watch ally & sally

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    ReCharge News April 2023

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    Regional RoundUp Sept-Oct 2021

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

    around the grounds:

    Regional RoundUp Sept/Oct 2021

    Wynyard

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

    Penguin

    Penguin Baptist Church
    Penguin Baptist Church

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

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

    Latrobe

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

    Sassafras

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

Rochele Long, Sassafras

    North

    Gateway Launceston

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

    Newstead

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

    Perth

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

    Riverlands Longford

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

    South

    Citywide

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

    Hobart

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

    PROFILE: Riverlands Christian Community, Longford

    Riverlands Baptist Longford

    our church:

    ADVANCE | step by step now features a new series of church profiles. This issue it’s all about Riverlands Baptist Church, Longford.

    Advance Dec-20, Summerhill Baptist profile

    Firstly, read an overview from the pastor, Rodney Marshall. Then continue scrolling for highlights from church member, Meg Roberts, and some memories from former pastor Jeff McKJinnon.

    From Riverlands Baptist Pastor: Rodney Marshall

    Howdy everybody!

    Tracey and Rodney Marshall, Riverlands Baptist
    Tracey and Rodney Marshall
    Riverlands Baptist, Beginnings

    I’m Rodney, the Tas Baptists’ Administrator, Riverlands Pastor, insurance man . . . and I have many other hats. Today’s hat is that of Pastor of Riverlands Christian Community at Longford, where I’ve been for over three years. Tracey and I have three married daughters, and five grandkids. (No. 6 is coming soon!)

    I grew up in Ulverstone, becoming a Christian in a cult at age 23. It took me 10 years to break free from the cult, and many more after that to work out what I really believe.

    Riverlands is known to many in the Baptist community as the place many Assemblies are held. We have a wonderful building, that is only 20 years old, and it is a blessing. While it is a little out of the centre of town, it is increasingly becoming an important part of the community.

    Riverlands is known to many in the Baptist community as the place many Assemblies are held.

    New opportunities to connect with our community

    Last year, in the midst of the COVID-19 troubles, we opened our door to Meals on Wheels, who now have their regional distribution base here. As well, a Kiosk for Carers to access support and information will open soon. These community programs are part of our engagement with the people of Longford and surrounding area.

    Late last year the Northern Midlands Council approached us to ask if we would host a Neighbourhood house. The house would have a goal of seeking to provide services and support to struggling groups throughout the area. Council was unsuccessful at its initial attempts to gain funding through the Tasmanian Community Fund but continues to seek funding from other sources.

    Our church partners with chaplains at both Longford Primary and Cressy High School, providing mentors and support to the Breakfast Club. We are actively looking for other ways to engage the children and parents of Longford. Recently a young mum has come to us seeking to hire a space to run Alpha for other mums. She seemed surprised when we offered her not only the space for free, but support in setting up and running the program.

    Sundays . . . and moving forward

    Riverlands Baptist Info

    Most weeks our Sunday morning service has someone new in attendance. Visitors traveling the state, old members testing the waters on returning, new people to Longford looking for a church, and the new Christians who church members have walked alongside. It’s lovely looking out and wondering “Who is that person?”

    It’s lovely looking out and wondering “Who is that person?”

    With all that’s happening around the place it’s important to keep our focus on Jesus and what he is doing. His heart is for all the people struggling in life and reaching out for help in so many wrong places. Finding the right way to engage is a critical part of moving forward.

    The church has been looking for someone to work with us in reaching young families, and providing support to parents. Maybe that is being provided for us by a young mum in a way we didn’t ever expect. Maybe it is just a step down a path we never thought about. Either way we are excited to see what Jesus does.

    Please pray for us as we seek wisdom, boldness and passion in seeing God’s kingdom come into the lives of the people in our community.

    Member Reflection

    By Meg Roberts

    Riverlands’ Baptist Groups Connecting With Local Community

    At Riverlands our various groups have been up and running again for a while, some with more participants than before lockdown, some with less.

    Longford Baptist Montage_April 2021
     Neighbours Group; Threads of Friendship; Stay and Play playtime; Stay and Play, craft; Stay and Play, feeding the lamb; Stay and Play storytime.
    • Neighbours Group meets fortnightly. Lunch used to be on the menu before COVID-19 struck, but is not practical now. Folk still come for a good chat, the occasional quiz, and a very good morning tea.
    • Threads of Friendship Craft Group are working on a variety of individual projects, from “Diamond Painting” (about which a few said, “I could never do that” but who are now really enjoying it) to crocheting and card-making. As a group we will no doubt soon be back into making gifts for the Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes.
    • Games Group ladies were meeting in private homes for a while after lockdown but are happy to have joined together again at the church. All the groups are meeting in the foyer for the time being to comply with social distancing.
    • Stay and Play have their own area and it is a busy time with little people and their carers – mums, dads, aunts, or grandparents. Feeding the sheep in the adjoining paddock is a highlight, along with a variety of activities. There are also a few folk from our congregation to help or be a listening ear.

    Heather Hockey’s Farewell

    Heather Hockey Riverlands Baptist

    On Sunday 14th March 2021, we at Riverlands Baptist held a delightful farewell service. We gave thanks for the various areas that Heather Hockey, and her husband Les, contributed to over 18 years of attending Longford Baptist/Riverlands. Les is now with his Lord, and Heather is moving to Queensland to be near family.

    It was lovely to have some of Heather’s friends as part of our congregation, including some from the Neighbours Group that Heather has looked after for many years.

    Various members of our congregation spoke in appreciation of Heather. For many years she led a team of caterers for functions held in our church building. Participants noticed her care for people in general, and for those with special dietary needs. We even had a poem read to us highlighting some of Les and Heather’s exploits! Heather has also put a lot of prayer and work into the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoeboxes: “There will be many in heaven who will thank her for bringing them to Jesus”.

    Heather spoke of how much God had helped her and Les, and of the help and blessing that many in the church had been, especially as Les’ health deteriorated.

    Her strong Christian walk and faith shone out during all parts of the church service, which ended with the Elders praying for her. Heather is a friend and encourager to many and although she will be very much missed, we were glad to give her our blessing as we sent her on to her next adventure, led by Jesus.

    Memories of the Transition to our New Building

    Former Tabernacle, Longford Baptist Church
    The former Baptist Tabernacle, Longford

    As the pastor who oversaw the move from the old Longford Tabernacle to the new Riverlands building, Jeff McKinnon has some unique perspectives!

    • Prayer was a very important element right throughout the decision-making and building process.
    • The building was not to be ‘a church’. Rather, the church would meet in a community centre, Riverlands.
    • However we also had a strong emphasis on operating mission off-site. We didn’t want the building to dominate our sense of identity and vocation.
    • The church had a careful process of about 5 years to decide to relocate, and how to relocate (eg refurbish a building, build on a ‘greenfield’, etc).
    • The church employed two of our members, John Pitt (builder) and Tim Preece (bricklayer) to construct Riverlands. Others provided significant time covering some other trades. During the building program we had one or two evening working bees most weeks.
    • Two of our oldest members, Miss Gladys Long and Mrs Doris King, opened Riverlands by cutting the ribbon, and turning the key respectively. A large crowd was present.
    • The church opened the new building largely debt free (a $10,000 interest free loan from Tasmanian Baptists was outstanding but repaid quite quickly). All up, the new facility cost about $500,000.00.
    • Initially the church retained its former name ‘Longford Baptist Church’ and the building only became known as ‘Riverlands’. After 2004, the name ‘Riverlands’ became the name of the church as well.