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Our Mission
Experience the Love of Jesus. Live it Out Everywhere.
Making a submission to our weekly newsletter?
Submissions for our weekly newsletter should be sent to
ellie.beaton@bsbc.nb.ca
The deadline for inclusion in Thursday’s edition is noon the Monday prior.
In this issue:
Check out what’s happening the week of September 26 to October 3, 2024!
1. Truth and Reconciliation: September 30
2. Thanksgiving Letter
3. Special Business Meeting: October 9
4. An Evening of Prayer: October 2
5. Welcome Sam, our new Children’s Ministry Coordinator
6. Mission Month in October
7. Fall Library Books
8. Volunteer Opportunities
9. Fall Ministries
10. Muffin Ministry
11. Harvest for the Hungry
12. Fresh Start Young Adults: Tuesdays
13. NextGen Ministry (Children/Youth)
14. Refugee Update
15. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: September 29
16. Pastoral Care
17. Celebrate With Us
18. Bereavement
19. Community Events
20. This Week @ BSBC
1. Truth and Reconciliation: September 30
Please note that our Church Offices will be closed on Monday, September 30. We will reopen on Tuesday, October 1 at 8:30 am.
2. Thanksgiving Letter
Fall / Thanksgiving Letter from the Pastor’s Office
Dear Church Family,
As we continue through the fall season and move towards Thanksgiving, I find myself constantly reminded of both God’s provision and the need to give thanks. Although intentionally stopping to give thanks can almost feel mechanical at times, I encourage you, no matter where you find yourself in life as you read this, to consider what you are thankful for. Interestingly though, even as followers of Jesus we can so often associate giving thanks only as a response to favorable circumstance. Our emotions and feelings instead can so often dictate our response to life and the experiences we have, and yet maturity generally tells us that as we grow in wisdom, our responses to situations should move to become more considered and value based than primarily emotional. However, so often these lessons and opportunities to grow in wisdom are only engaged with well, after having previously been unwise. As the Dutch Proverb tells us,
"Wisdom is a good purchase, though we pay dearly for it."
As many of us will know through poor decisions made previously, we do pay dearly so often to grow in wisdom. I am reminded of the amazing dream King Solomon had when God appeared to him and said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (1Kings 3 :5). Could you imagine that moment? So often I wonder what would I say? What would I ask for? Well, as the story unfolds, we see one of the best decisions of any King of Israel as Solomon responds:
“Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people,
too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.
For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” (1 Kings 3: 8 – 9)
Essentially Solomon’s request is to say, “God, for the role you have called me to, to do this well, I need wisdom! To be able to discern not by my own arrogance, intelligence, heart, belief or standards, but instead to humbly distinguish between right and wrong with God given wisdom!” We read God’s response to Solomon as the passage continues:
The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked.
I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. (1 Kings 3: 10 – 12)
Isn’t it amazing that God wants us to be wise! He wants us to live His way and to love His way! We live in a hurting world. People are suffering. There are wars, poverty, isolation, loneliness and despair and they are not hard to find. There is insecurity and reasons for concern everywhere. Even here in Fredericton, we have addictions, homelessness, despair, isolation, fear, anger, brokenness and more. Life is difficult and hope can be hard to find for so many, even for those who call Jesus Saviour. And yet. Two beautiful words, aren’t they? And yet… And yet, Jesus is Saviour. And yet, there is hope. And yet, He still reigns. And yet, He is still at work. And yet, He is still God. And yet, He is not done! We still give thanks and live in gratitude for He is good, and He is here by His Spirit and will return. He is at work, we can still see His goodness everywhere! As Henry Ward Beecher, who was an American Congregationalist Minister said:
“The unthankful heart discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings!”
God is not hiding! In fact, we can see His mercies everywhere! The beauty of harvest and the fall season, the relationships we have and hold dear, the love we experience each day and the truth of His love for us and promise and reality of His presence. His Word to us and His presence with us, His creation around us and His Spirit within us. Sometimes though, to take hold of the new, we need to let go of something else. It is impossible to fully embrace a new thing God may be trying to do in our lives if our hands are closed, gripping tightly on to what used to be. Whether it be a past iteration of faith experience, a hurt that needs healing or a longing for our will to happen in a circumstance even over that of God’s will. We cannot experience freedom, healing or newness of life, if bitterness has taken hold. So, in wisdom and by His grace, the greatest cure to earthly bitterness and hopelessness is divine thankfulness. As preacher Nancy DeMoss stated:
“An evidence that our will has been broken is that we begin to thank God for that which once seemed so bitter, knowing that His will is good and that, in His time and in His way, He is able to make the most bitter waters sweet.”
So, I encourage you today, take time to be thankful intentionally! Reflect honestly on your life, the goodness of God you have seen and experienced. The struggles and hurts you may be carrying with you. Honestly and sincerely ask the Spirit of God, “where am I holding bitterness and how can I experience the sweetness of your presence and healing in such places?” Seek wisdom and live in gratitude for who God is and His love for you. Take inspiration from the beautiful words of Psalm 100 below and open yourself to a new thing the Spirit of God may be doing in your life and in our beautiful community at Brunswick Street Baptist Church.
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 100)
In gratitude to our Saviour and God I am praying for His grace to guide, His love to hold and His wisdom to lead, as we live in thankfulness for the most amazing love, given by the most amazing God, so we may experience the love of Jesus in our lives and respond by living it out everywhere.
Blessings of the season,
Rev. Ross Watters
3. Special Business Meeting: Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 7:00PM
At the request of the Board of Deacons, the moderator is calling for a Special Business Meeting to be held on Wednesday, October 9, at 7:00 pm in the sanctuary. The Search Committee will be presenting a candidate for the Senior/Lead Pastor role at Brunswick Street Baptist Church (BSBC). The candidate will then share their vision for BSBC, followed by a Q&A period. It is the intention of the Search Committee that those congregation members who are eligible may vote on the presented candidate as our Senior/Lead Pastor.
All members of BSBC aged 16 and over, whether in-person or online, may vote on this candidate.
This meeting will also be available on Zoom. To attend this meeting via Zoom, please contact Naomi in the church office, naomi.phillips@bsbc.nb.ca, for the Zoom link and to book an in-person appointment at BSBC on Thursday, October 10 to place your vote.
At the recommendation of the convention, Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada (CBAC), the name of our candidate will be kept confidential until the Special Business Meeting.
Thank you,
Search Committee
4. An Evening of Prayer
Philippians 4:4-7 NRSVUE
[4] Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. [5] Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. [6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
The Search Committee has invited the BSBC congregation to pray throughout the search process. As we prepare for the upcoming Special Business Meeting, we invite you to an informal evening of prayer. Join us October 2 at 6:30pm in the sanctuary to pray individually or in small groups. We hope to see you there!
5. Welcome Sam, our new Children’s Ministry Coordinator
Hi, I'm Samuel Essel, but you can call me Sam. I'm a fourth-year Bachelor of Arts student at UNB. I'm passionate about sports, I have a heart for children’s ministry, and I am always excited about sharing my faith in Jesus Christ. I look forward to stepping into the role of Children’s Ministry Coordinator!
6. Mission Month in October
Hi ! Nǐ hǎo! Hola! Guten Tag and warm greetings on behalf of your BSBC Missions Committee!
Last week, we announced that October will be dedicated to missions, under the theme Proclaim His Name!
Beyond seeing and hearing directly from our missions partners and opening God's Word together, we want to gather to pray as a church body, understanding that this is how we align our hearts with God's and this is where missional work starts!
Thus, on Sunday October 20th, right after the services, we are all invited to stick around and unite in prayer.
Stay tuned for more details for what will be a sweet time of fellowship and prayer!
Reminder: Were you born outside of Canada?
If so, please inform the missions committee by email, at charles.globetrotter@gmail.com, before Oct 1st, sharing which country you are from, so we can get you equipped for this unique moment we will live together! Gracias! Merci! Danke schon!
Pray with us that in October, God will specifically reveal His Heart for the Nations
and excite us to deepen our participation to His redemptive world-wide mission!
Yours truly!
Rosa, Elaine, Josie, Joel, Jane Ann and Charles
Your Missions Committee
7. Fall Library Books
Come check out these kids’ books at the library to celebrate the coming of Fall!
8. Volunteer Opportunities
Senior Residence Services
We are looking for volunteers to help with church services at our senior residences.
If you love to sing or play a musical instrument, we need you! Volunteering once a month or even once every two months would be a wonderful blessing to this ministry and our seniors.
For more information, including schedules, locations, and times, please contact Doug McAllister, our Senior's Visitation Pastor, at the church or by email at doug.mcallister@bsbc.nb.ca.
Fall Security
Hello BSBC Family,
We are looking for volunteers who can commit to security one night a month, particularly on the third Tuesday from 6-9pm. We are also looking for spare volunteers who are willing to fill in for someone occasionally. If you are willing, please contact Dwight Colwell via email colwelldwight@gmail.com.
Third Sunday Supper
Our Third Sunday Suppers are going strong with at least 50 guests at each meal. To continue with this successful ministry, we need your help! Would you be willing to prepare a meal for our guests sometime in the new year? It can be as simple as you wish to make it. For ideas or if you have any questions, please contact me and I would be happy to help. Thank you!
Blessings,
Judy Thompson
506-238-9903
judypaul1088@gmail.com
4th Annual Trunk or Treat!
Date & Time:
Sunday, October 27, from 4–5 PM
We're excited to host our 4th Annual Trunk or Treat, and we'd love for you to join us! This fun community outreach event is open to everyone, so feel free to invite your friends, family, and neighbors—whether they’re part of our church or not!
Decorate Your Car:
We’re looking for volunteers to decorate their cars for the event! If you’d like to participate, please RSVP by emailing Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca by October 15. She’s also happy to send decorating ideas if you need inspiration.
Candy, Treats, and Drinks:
Volunteers of all ages are welcome! If you’d like to donate candy, treats, or drinks, please drop them off at the church office by October 20. This event is a great opportunity to share joy with the community, so please spread the word!
Youth Volunteers:
We encourage all middle and high school students to get involved! You can dress up in costumes, help decorate cars, deliver candy and treats, and assist with leading games. It’s a fun way to give back and enjoy the event!
How to Get Involved:
To RSVP your car, donate treats, or register youth volunteers, contact Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.
Thank you for helping make this event a success! We can’t wait to see you there!
9. Fall Ministries
Quilter’s Meeting: Tuesdays
Join us every Tuesday at 1:30 pm in the Quilting Room for a time of creativity, fellowship, and purpose as we quilt for missions!
On the 4th Tuesday of each month, we gather a little earlier for our Quilters Lunch Meeting at 12:15 pm — a great time to connect, share a meal, and enjoy each other’s company before we get to work.
Whether you’re an experienced quilter or just starting, we’d love to have you with us!
If you have any questions, please contact Mary McMulkin mlmulkin@gmail.com.
Adult Bible Study: October 3rd
Join us Thursday, October 3rd at 1:30 pm in the Board Room on the 3rd floor for an engaging and thoughtful study of God's Word.
This fall, we will meet every Thursday and dive into 1 Corinthians, where the apostle Paul offers practical guidance for Christian living in a city filled with pagan influences. The challenges faced by the early believers — especially in resisting worldliness — are just as relevant today. Together, we’ll explore how Paul’s teachings can help us navigate similar struggles in our own lives.
We would love for you to join us for this meaningful time of study and fellowship!
If you have any questions, please contact Mary McMulkin mlmulkin@gmail.com.
DivorceCare: Tuesdays
If you are going through marital separation, long term relationship break-up or divorce, or know someone who is going through that same traumatic life event, please come to DivorceCare, or invite the individual to consider joining our 13-week DivorceCare program, a ministry which will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 6:30 p.m. in the Family Room of Brunswick Street Baptist Church.
Each evening includes the presentation of videos with expert counsellors sharing insights on how to move from hurting to healing. In addition, supportive conversation provides encouragement to participants led by Gloria Tranquilla, Pauline Harvey, and Bryan McWilliam. Each session stands on its own so participants can join any week.
For more information, please contact facilitator, Gloria Tranquilla at momsplace70@hotmail.com or call the church office at 458-8348. You can also register online using the link below.
Sanctuary Choir: Wednesdays
The Sanctuary Choir will hold rehearsals on Wednesdays at 6:30pm in the Choir Room. All who enjoy singing (age 12 - senior adult) are encouraged to be part of this Music Ministry in our church. New members are very welcome to join us! If you are new to choral singing and would like to give it a try, please join us any Wednesday throughout September! Please speak to David Steeves or Gloria Tranquilla if you have questions!
Scouts: Wednesdays
BSBC offers a scouting program for boys from kindergarten through high school, featuring outdoor adventures, fun activities, and community service projects. This program aims to teach boys how to live out the great commission by loving God and our neighbors.
Scout meetings will be held weekly on Wednesdays in the church gym. Otters, for boys aged 5 to 7 and Timber Wolves, for boys aged 8 to 10 will meet from 6:30 to 8:00 PM.
If there are any questions, please contact Dale Wilson at wilsondaletreefarm@gmail.com.
GriefShare: Thursdays
If you are suffering the loss of a loved one, GriefShare, a Christian-based video-discussion support group, is being offered in the Family Room of the Family Life Center at Brunswick Street Baptist Church on Thursdays from 7-9 pm for 14 weeks. Please call 458-8348 for information and to register.
10. Muffin Ministry
On behalf of our brothers and sisters who make a weekly evening trek around the city to visit those sleeping rough, and the members of your Social Action Team, thank you ‘muffin makers’ for your faithfulness serving in this way.
Our schedule is open from now until the end of 2024. We require 3 dozen muffins each week. If you are able to help in this way, please place 12 muffins, individually wrapped, in a large zipper locked bag, and label the bag “Street Ministry”. Don’t forget to include your name and the delivery date for which you signed up. You can place the labeled muffins in the upright freezer in the main kitchen.
Please click the link below or call the church office (506-458-8348) and our admin team will be pleased to do the online registration for you. Jesus spoke of offering cups of cold water in his name. Muffins, we believe, offer the same opportunity to bless others for him.
11. Harvest For the Hungry
Did you know that New Brunswick has the second highest rate of food insecurity in Canada? Our local food bank, Greener Village, reports that they hand out over 2100 food boxes to families each month. That’s a lot of need! It’s that time again when your Social Action Team invites the church family to bring non-perishable food and household items as part of our “Harvest for the Hungry” event.
These items will be divided between our New Life Ministry (supporting families who struggle to ‘make ends meet’) and the Greener Village Fredericton Food Bank. The food collected makes a positive impact on families with great need and is a sign, we pray, of God’s love and His provision through His Church.
Here are the specific requests from our New Life Ministry:
• Spaghetti sauce
• Spaghetti noodles
• Soup
• Canned vegetables
• Canned meat
• Cereal
• Kraft dinner
• Rice
• Packaged items for kid’s lunches
• Toilet Paper
We invite you to do a little shopping and then bring your ‘harvest’ to the Connections Centre (on or before Thanksgiving Sunday) where it will be collected and ultimately distributed. Or you can make a financial donation to the project by simply designating your gift to “Harvest for the Hungry." Following Thanksgiving, we’ll divide these gifts between New Life and Greener Village.
Hebrews 13:16 reminds us to share with those in need as these sacrifices are pleasing to God. Thank you for giving to our “harvest” for His glory!
12. Fresh Start Young Adults: Tuesdays
Our Young Adults ministry, Fresh Start, will meet on Tuesdays, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm, on the 3rd floor of the Family Life Center. Come along for some fun, snacks and social time followed by a Bible study. We would love to see you there!
Please contact Pastor Ross ross@bsbc.nb.ca for details.
13. NextGen Ministry (Children & Youth)
CHILDREN @ BSBC
Scouts (K - Grade 12)
BSBC offers a scouting program for boys from kindergarten to grade 5. Outdoor adventures, fun activities, and community service projects teach boys how to live the great commission to love God and our neighbor. Wednesdays 6:30 – 8:00 pm.
Sunday School
Sunday School is officially back! This is a time of learning for our children and youth. It gives our Pre-K to Grade 12 students age-specific teaching about the gospel. Sunday School will take place from 9:30 – 10:15 am. For parents and adults, join us for tea, coffee and fellowship in the Connection Center and family room during this time.
YOUTH @ BSBC
Read the New Testament in a Year Bible Plan
Our youth are following a New Testament Bible reading plan, Monday to Friday. This week, we’re reading 1 Timothy 6, and 2 Timothy 1-4.
Youth Sunday School Bible Study: Sunday Mornings 9:30 – 10:15 am
Sunday School Bible Study is a place for our youth to dig into the Bible with some great leaders, ask questions, and grow in their faith. All youth grades 6 to 12 are welcome to join us for Sunday school on the third floor of the Family Life Centre from 9:30 -10:15 am.
Greenhouse Service this Sunday!
Youth are invited to join us in the contemporary service this Sunday for worship. Following the worship, at 11:00 am, our youth will be moving to the third floor for an ice breaker, message, snacks, and fellowship. All youth grades 6 – 12 are welcome.
Youth Group: Sunday, 6:30 – 8:00 pm with optional hangout to 8:30 pm
Join us on Sunday evening for Youth Group! We will have a middle and high school split event. High schoolers will be meeting in the gym for an evening of full church games (bring a water bottle and running shoes). Middle schoolers will join us on the third floor for tie-dyeing (bring a t-shirt or socks for tie-dyeing) All are welcome!
Youth Group Events coming up:
September 29
11:00 am Greenhouse Service
Middle School & High School, meet in Contemporary Service and will move up to the 3rd floor for the message portion.
6:30 – 8:00 pm Youth Group (Optional Hangout 8:00 – 8:30)
Middle School – Tie Dye Event
High School – Full Church Games
October 6: 6:30 – 8:00 pm Youth Group
Middle School - Friendsgiving potluck gym
High School - Friendsgiving potluck 3rd floor
October 13: No Youth Group
No Youth Group, Happy Thanksgiving, enjoy the family time!
October 18: 6:30 – 9:00 pm FYR
Join us on October 18th for the Fredericton Youth Rally at Smythe Church! Register with Pastor Nikki so she knows you are coming! Cost $10 per student.
October 27:
4:00 – 5:00 pm Trunk or Treat
5:30 – 7:00 pm Youth Group Halloween Party
Leadership & Discipleship Training: Starting October 16, 6:45 – 8:00 pm
We’re starting leadership and discipleship training on Wednesdays from 6:45 – 8:00 pm. This program will focus on developing leadership skills and putting them into practice. Youth will have the opportunity to brainstorm ideas that impact our ministry, from topics of interest to event planning. If you’d like to learn more or join, please contact Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.
Greenhouse Band Practice: Coming Soon
Greenhouse band practice will begin later this year due to ongoing construction on the third floor. More details will be shared soon!
14. Refugee Update
Since my last update in July, the BSBC refugee fund has received an additional $2,100. As of early September, our fund stands at $20,992.44, up from $18,727 in July.
For those who missed the summer update, following a vote during a business meeting, I applied in July 2023 for BSBC to sponsor and support a refugee family of six. Due to privacy concerns, the family has requested that their names not be shared. This family, originally from Syria, is currently living as refugees in Lebanon. We connected with them through relatives here in Fredericton, who were befriended by Rachel Nesbitt, a former member of our congregation.
To support this family for their first year in Canada, we estimate we will need to raise $45,000, though we recognize that costs are rising each year. The refugee fund grows through designated donations from our congregation. You can contribute by specifying "Refugee Fund" on your offering envelope or in the comment line of your e-Transfer.
We still have a significant way to go to reach our goal, and we hope to see the paperwork approved soon so this family can begin their new life in Fredericton. Once approved, we will likely receive less than a month's notice of their arrival. Please consider setting up a regular donation to the BSBC refugee fund to help us reach our target.
I will continue to provide updates on the Refugee Fund and our sponsorship progress monthly. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me at adrianandmartina@gmail.com.
Thank you for your continued support!
Martina Verboom
Refugee Liaison, Social Action Team
15. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: September 29
This Sunday, the worship team in the gym will be led by Sarah Hoyt and Mark McAllister. In the sanctuary the worship team will be led by Gloria Tranquilla and David Steeves, with special music from the Sanctuary Choir and Emmett Flores (Viola).
Dr. Keith Bodner will be preaching in the Gym and the Sanctuary. Of his sermon, he writes, “September 30, in the life of our nation, marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This coming Sunday we are honored to host our friend and colleague, Dr H. Daniel Zacharias, Associate Dean and Professor of New Testament at Acadia Divinity College, and Liaison to NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community, as our guest speaker in both services. Dr Zacharias will reflect on the significance of this day for the contemporary church in Canada, and preach on the magisterial prologue of John chapter 1:1-18 in his addresses to both services this week.”
Whether in-person or online, be sure to join us this Sunday morning at 10:30 am.
16. Pastoral Care
Your Deacons want to affirm that BSBC is equipped to provide Pastoral Care. We are grateful for the engagement of Rev. Ross and Pastor Nikki, and we are blessed to have additional support from Rev. Kevin Culberson, sanctuary Ministry Coordinator and the Baptist Chaplin at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital and Doug McAllister, our Benevolent Coordinator and Senior’s Visitation Pastor.
Here are some suggested approaches:
Hospitalizations
• Your pastors will only know of hospitalizations if the church office or individual pastors are contacted directly
• We’d appreciate you notifying the office if you know of the hospitalization of a member of the BSBC family
Critical Incident
• If a pastor is needed in an emergency situation, between Monday to Friday, 8:30 am and 4 pm, please contact the church office
• Outside of office hours, please contact a pastor directly
Bereavement
• Rev. Ross and Rev. Kevin will be available to support families at a time of loss, to conduct funeral and committal services
• Contact the church office during office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4 pm
• Outside of office hours, please contact a pastor directly
• We have provided McAdams, Bishops, and York Funeral Homes with the contact information for both Rev. Ross and Rev. Kevin
• If you are not a member of a bereaved family but know of a death within the BSBC family, please contact the church office to make sure your pastors are aware of the need
Parish Nurses
The parish nursing ministry is intended to support and strengthen the spiritual, physical and emotional well-being of individuals, families, and the congregation at BSBC. Roz Thompson and Cheryl Gibson, your parish nurses, collaborate with members of the pastoral team promoting health and faith, to facilitate the healing of the body, mind, and spirit. The parish nurses are available to provide prayer and support for physical, mental, and spiritual health challenges.
Contact Details
Church Office
506-458-8348
naomi.phillips@bsbc.nb.ca
bsbc@bsbc.nb.ca
Rev. Ross Watters
506-282-3443
ross@bsbc.nb.ca
Pastor Nikki Leftley
506-282-1075
nikki@bsbc.nb.ca
Doug McAllister
506-282-0928
doug.mcallister@bsbc.nb.ca
Roz Thompson, Parish Nurse
506-457-2787
tawsky@gmail.com
Cheryl Gibson, Parish Nurse
506-454-6657
Cheryl.gibson@unb.ca
Please pray for our pastoral care team as they seek to partner with you in caring for the BSBC family.
Your Board of Deacons
17. Celebrate With Us
The wedding of Sandy Clark, daughter of David & Alfie Clark, and Michael Brown will take place at BSBC on Friday, October 4 at 3:00 pm. All are welcome to attend.
Congratulations go out to Doris & Roddy Thomson on their newest great-grand daughter. Isabelle Leigh, daughter to proud parents, Makenzie and Andrew, arrived on Friday, September 6, weighing 4 lbs 8oz. Prayers and blessings to the happy family!
18. Bereavement
Ethel Saunders
Ethel Gertrude Saunders, wife of the late Reid Saunders, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton, surrounded by family. Born on May 19, 1926, in Salisbury, New Brunswick, to the late Walter and Winifred Burnham, Ethel lived a full and active life, moving across Canada and Germany with her husband during his 30 years of service with the Canadian Armed Forces. She raised two children while Reid served as a peacekeeper and later settled in Fredericton, where she managed Courier Cards and volunteered at the local hospital gift shop. A dedicated member of Christ Church Cathedral, Ethel was known for her resilience, grace, and steadfast care for her family, including her daughters Pamela Miller (David) and Gywn Schellenberg (David), five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brother, Fenwick Burnham. A memorial service will be held at York Funeral Home on Saturday, October 12, 2024, with interment at Fairhaven Cemetery at a later date. The family expresses deep gratitude to Ethel’s caregivers and invites remembrances to be made to a charity of choice.
David Touchie
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of David Brian Touchie on September 14, 2024, at Hospice House in Fredericton. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, David brought immense joy and warmth to those around him. His beloved wife, Barb, his son Andrew, and three cherished grandsons, Owen, Ethan, and Ezra, were his pride and greatest joys. Known for his kindness, wisdom, and gentle spirit, David touched the lives of many through his work and personal relationships. He will be fondly remembered for his love of cooking, his dedication to family, and his commitment to his community and church. Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the time we had with him, and his memory will live on in all who knew and loved him.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of McAdams Funeral Home in Fredericton. Visitation will take place from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm on Thursday, September 19, 2024 followed by a funeral service at 3:00 pm at McAdams Funeral Home, officiated by Rev. Greg Geldart. A reception will be offered directly after the service.
19. Community Events
Murray Lecture: September 26
Crandall University’s Murray Lectureship series features Christian scholars who come to campus to share with our students, staff, faculty, and the broader community.
All are invited to join us for this year’s Murray Lecture on Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm.
Crandall’s 2024 Murray Lecturer is Rev. Dr. Michael Bird, Deputy Principal and Lecturer in Theology at Ridley College in Melbourne, Australia.
Dr. Bird will present a lecture entitled, “The Christian Case for Secularism and Liberalism.”
S.T.A.R.S Children Gala: September 27
Dear Friend,
Join us at the Fredericton Convention Centre on Friday, September 27th at 5:30 PM for the S.T.A.R.S. for Children Gala. This event is a fundraiser to develop resources for children who have experienced emotional trauma. Let's come together to make a difference in their lives!
Includes: Gourmet Dinner, Silent Auction and Auction, Guest Speaker Theoren Fleury.
About Theoren Fleury:
Former NHL All Star, Stanley Cup Winner and Olympic Gold Medalist, Two-time best author of "Playing With Fire" and "Conversations With a Rattlesnake". He has been awarded the Canadian Humanitarian Award, The Queen Jubilee Medallion, he is Honorary Chief and recipient of the Aboriginal Inspired Award, Awarded with an honorary doctorate in Science from University of Guelph-Humber for outstanding contributions to the Mental Health of Canadians and a second doctorate in Law from Brandon University in recognition for his contributions combating child sexual abuse and for his outstanding efforts to promote healing and recovery. His book is used in 7 universities as a tool in studying Attachment Disorder. He will be speaking about his journey though trauma.
Some of our Auction items are : Authentic autographed framed photo of Taylor Swift, Trip to Wales, Trip to Iceland, US Open Tennis Finals, NCAA Final Four Finale and Cordon Bleu Experience in Paris.
For more information about S.T.A.R.S. Children's Home, go to our website : starschildrenshome.ca
Don't miss out on this opportunity to support a great cause. Buy your tickets now and be a part of something truly meaningful.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Sincerely,
NewLife Options Inc.
Women’s Inter-Church of Fredericton: September 28
The Women’s Inter-Church of Fredericton will be celebrating their 60th Anniversary on September 28,2024 at Wilmot United Church, 473 King Street, Fredericton at 2:00 PM. The Theme is “Shining the Light”.
The entrance off Carlton Street has a lift device and fewer stairs and easier to get into the sanctuary.
We will have the honour of Catherine MacKeil, Executive Director of the Women’s Inter-Church of Canada and Shirley DeMerchant, Past President of the Women’s Inter-Church of Canada present at our celebration.
Following the Service there is a reception downstairs. All are welcome.
Deborah Heustis,
Publicity for the Women’s Inter-Church of Fredericton
The Full Colors of the Organ: October 4th
Join us on October 4th at 7 pm for a farewell organ recital by Dr. Sharon Pond at St. Paul's United Church. This event celebrates the church and its beautiful Casavant organ, with a selection of crowd-favorite music and some special surprises.
Everyone is welcome! There will be a reception afterward, and donations for the Food Bank will be accepted.
Area Wide Concert of Prayer inYork Association: October 6
Several churches are coming together on Sunday, October 6th at 6:30 pm at Burtts Corner Baptist for a special evening of prayer and worship focused on revival in our region. We invite representatives from more congregations to join us as we seek God for renewal in our community.
20. This Week at BSBC
Thursday, September 26
7:00 Men’s Prayer Breakfast (Gym/Main Kitchen)
7:00 Women’s Prayer Breakfast (Family Room/Kitchenette, 1st Floor, FLC)
9:00 Benevolent Ministries (By Appointment)
9:30 New Life (3rd Floor Classroom)
1:30 Ladies Bible Study (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
6:00 GriefShare (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
Friday, September 27
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:00 Gym Band Set-Up (Gym)
7:00 Mandarin Fellowship (Family Room, KidzTown, FLC)
Saturday, September 28
1:00 Worship Team Practice (Gym)
Sunday, September 29
7:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
9:00 Asian Sunday School Class (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
9:30 Together in Prayer (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
9:30 Coffee Time (Connection Center)
9:30 Pre-School Sunday School (Ages 3-4)(Nursery, 1st Floor, FLC)
9:30 KidzTown Sunday School (Classrooms, 2nd Floor, FLC)
9:30 Youth Sunday School (Classrooms, 3rd Floor, FLC)
10:30 Gym Worship Service (Gym)
10:30 Sanctuary and Mandarin Worship Service (Sanctuary)
10:50 KidzTown & Preschool Classes (1st & 2nd Floor, FLC)
11:05 Greenhouse (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
11:30 Library Open After Services (Connections Center)
12:00 Mandarin Fellowship and Choir (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Youth Group (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC) (Gym/Fellowship Hall, Assembly Area, 3rd Floor FLC)
Monday, September 30
Truth and Reconciliation Day (Church Office Closed)
Tuesday, October 1
9:00 BSBC Audit Team (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
10:00 Pastoral/Planning Meeting (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
12:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
1:30 Quilters For Missions (Quilting Room, 2nd Floor, Connections Center)
6:30 BoM/BoD Meeting (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
6:30 Music Rehearsal (Choir Room, 2nd Floor, Connections Center)
6:30 Divorce Care (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
7:00 Fresh Start Young Adults (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Wednesday, October 2
9:00 BSBC Audit Team (Boardroom,2nd Floor, Gym Building)
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:15 Church Family Potluck (Gym/Main Kitchen)
6:00 Sanctuary Choir Rehearsals (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)(Choir Room, 2nd Floor, Connections Center)
6:00 Prayer Meeting (Sanctuary)
7:00 Mandarin Choir Rehearsal (Barnabas Center)
Thursday, October 3
7:00 Men’s Prayer Breakfast (Main Kitchen/Gym/Sanctuary)
7:00 Women’s Prayer Breakfast (Family Room and Kitchenette, 1st Floor, FLC)
9:00 Benevolent Ministries (By Appointment)
9:30 New Life Women’s Ministry (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
12:00 Clark/Brown Planning (Sanctuary)
1:30 Adult Bible Study (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
1:30 Ladies Bible Study (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
6:00 Clark/Brown Rehearsal (Sanctuary)
6:00 GriefShare (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
