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Please note, submissions for our weekly newsletter should now be sent to
naomi.phillips@bsbc.nb.ca. The deadline for inclusion in Wednesday’s edition is the Monday prior by 2:30 p.m.
In this issue:
Check out what's coming up at BSBC from April 26 to May 3.
Sabbatical for Pastor Greg Geldart
Easter Support Thank You
Prayer/Healing Service
New Ladies’ Bible Study
Bereavement
Travels with Bekah Sears
Photos From Your Library
Microwave
This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings
NextGen Ministry @ BSBC (Children & Youth)
Seeking Summer Student for NextGen Ministry
Children’s Ministry Staff Openings
Meals on Wheels – Opportunity to Care
Community Opportunities
This Week @ BSBC
1. Sabbatical for Pastor Greg
In February 2023, Dr. Cheryl Ann Beals, Director of the Sozo Center for Soul Care within our own Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada was engaged by the Board of Deacons to consider how the church can best support our Pastors. As our world becomes increasingly complicated and wounded, the role of Pastors grows in level of complexity. We want to ensure that we are providing all our Pastors with the best support possible.
On March 27, the Board of Deacons approved a time of leave for our Lead Pastor, Greg Geldart. This will begin on May 15, 2023 until August 15, 2023. The first two months will be paid Sabbatical leave and the last month will see Pastor Greg using his vacation time.
What is a Sabbatical? The word is derived from the word Sabbath and it means an extended time away from work. The purpose of a Sabbatical can be varied but it is most often given to afford the opportunity to pursue learning, increase personal and professional development, and enhance overall wellness.
During his 3-month leave, Pastor Greg will be engaged in an intentional process that includes structured activities to cultivate personal spiritual renewal and support overall wellness. Unlike previous times, Pastor Greg will not be called on to engage in church ministry while on leave. Work is being done now to ensure that our other Pastors and staff will be well supported during his absence. We recognize that the well-being of all our leaders is vital to the well-being of our church.
The Board of Deacons asks that you join us in praying for Pastor Greg and Margaret during this time of formation and for all our Pastors and their families as they faithfully serve in ministry.
Denise Mersereau, Chair
Board of Deacons
Pastor Greg writes, “It has been an exciting time to learn how other pastors in our denomination are being supported through the work of the department of Clergy Wellness and Formation. I’ve been able to talk with other pastors who have shared how these initiatives have benefited them and their churches. It’s also good to know that once this introductory work is done, there are other avenues available that begin in the fall, designed to be engaged while carrying out ministry. In the past, the congregation has gifted me with extended time off for which Margaret and I continue to be grateful. This ‘sabbatical’ is different in that there are specific structured opportunities focused on personal spiritual enrichment. I anticipate that the results will be like someone with anemia receiving a blood transfusion.”
2. Easter Support Thank You
Sergiy and Julia Polyachenko would like to express their gratitude to the Church Family for their amazing support during the Easter sale on April 2. The kindness of people at BSBC allowed them to send $532 to the Hospitallers organization for much needed medical supplies for Ukrainian frontline medics. This significant donation was highlighted on the Hospitallers website.
Thank you!!
Julia
3. Prayer/Healing Services
If you were not able to attend the April 16 “Healing Service” there’s good news. The next service will be held THIS Sunday, April 30 and then again on Sunday, May 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the sanctuary.
This is a simple time of worship and prayer with the invitation for those who attend to come to a prayer station and have a brother and a sister hear your request, with your permission anoint you with oil, and pray over you and with you. The emphasis is on simple. Sitting in the pew for the whole time is welcome. You won’t be forced to pray publicly; such opportunities may be offered but only for those who wish to engage in this way. As I said, the emphasis is on simple.
If you have never been to a “Healing Service” come, attend and engage in a way that feels right at this point in your spiritual journey.
Pastor Greg
4. New Ladies Bible Study
Hosted by Bo Vinh-Doyle, starting Thursday, May 4 and runs 7-weeks, in the Boardroom on the third floor of the Family Life Center.
The Publisher’s website states, “All day, every day, an invisible war rages around you — unseen, unheard, yet felt throughout every aspect of your life. A devoted, devilish enemy seeks to wreak havoc on everything that matters to you: your heart, your mind, your marriage, your children, your relationships, your resilience, your dreams, your destiny.
But his battle plan depends on catching you unaware and unarmed. If you're tired of being pushed around and caught with your guard down, this study is for you.
The enemy always fails miserably when he meets a woman dressed for the occasion. The Armor of God, more than merely a biblical description of the believer's inventory, is an action plan for putting it on and developing a personalized strategy to secure victory.”
5. Bereavement
Please be in prayer for Shirley Thorne on the passing of her husband of 67 years, Gordon Thorne, at the DECH on Monday, April 24 and will be greatly missed.
Gordon was a member of Brunswick Street Baptist Church for almost sixty years. He enjoyed music and sang in the choir. He also had a passion for genealogy and helping other seekers of family history, especially with connections through his early life in Havelock. As part of their own genealogical journey, Gordon and Shirley were pleased to be able to prove that they were descendants of the United Empire Loyalists (UEL) who settled in New Brunswick after 1783. In his retirement years, Gordon enjoyed gardening at the cottage and at home. Many people will fondly remember Gordon as a kind and gentle man with an incredible eye for design and a good sense of humour. He loved his family and will be greatly missed.
Besides his wife, he is survived by children Michael (Shawn Cossey) Thorne of Waterborough, NB; Catherine (Scott) MacKeil of Dartmouth, NS; and Andrew (Jodi Camp) Thorne of Fort McMurray, AB. He is also survived by his grandchildren Jake (Ellen) Thorne of Schreiber, ON; Joel (Bre) of Halifax, NS; Sarah MacKeil of Dartmouth, NS; and Mathew and Jennifer Thorne of Fort McMurray, AB; as well as great-grandchildren Kallie, Noah, and Hunter Thorne, nephew Dr. David Thorne, niece Ruth (Lawrence) McGuire, and many special cousins.
A celebration of Gordon’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are in care of McAdam’s Funeral Home and the full obituary can be found on the McAdam’s website.
6. Travels with Bekah Sears
Our Partner in Mission, Rebekah Sears is winding up her time with the Mennonite Central Committee. We were praying for her on her recent mission tour and she’s provided us with links to these video vlogs on three points of engagement.
Please be in prayer for Rebekah as she transitions to a new ministry opportunity.
Details will follow!
7. Library Finds
Did you know, your church library has “Ready to Read“ and “I Can Read” books for young readers to enjoy?!
8. We Need a Microwave
We have need of a microwave for our friend, Souaibou. If you can help please contact the church office at 458-8348 or bsbc@bsbc.nb.ca. Thank you!
9. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings
The gym worship service will be under the musical leadership of our Greenhouse Youth Worship Team. In the sanctuary the service will feature musical leadership by the Sanctuary Choir and the Adult Handbell Choir. Both services start at 10:30 am.
AND THEN….
The gym folks will take a ‘field trip’ to the sanctuary for Dr. Keith’s baptism devotional and the witness of Believer’s Baptism with worship then lead by the Greenhouse Youth Worship Team.
It promises to be a morning of immense blessing. In-person or online, don’t miss this Sunday at THESTREET!
10. NextGen Ministry
Children @ BSBC
Half-Day Summer Camp: July 3 – 7, 9 am – noon
Our half-day summer camp will be happening Monday, July 3rd to Friday, July 7th, from 9 am – noon! Mark your calendars and be ready for your little ones to join us! Registration for the half-day summer camp will open mid-May. If you are interested in volunteering, please reach out to Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.
Elementary (K – Grade 5) Scouting Boys: Wednesday, 6:30 pm
BSBC offers a scouting program for boys from Kindergarten to Grade 5. Outdoor adventures, fun activities, and community service projects are used to teach boys how to live the great commission, and to love God and our neighbours. Meetings are held weekly in the church gym on Wednesday evenings for those in kindergarten to Grade 5. For more information, please contact the church office at 458-8348 or bsbc@bsbc.nb.ca.
Youth @ BSBC: Big Upcoming Events
Family Evening Hike at Woolastook Park: THIS Friday, April 28
Parents are encouraged to join our youth for an evening of fellowship! We are meeting at the church at 5 pm to have a quick supper together. Then at 5:40 pm, we are heading to Woolastook Park. We will meet at Woolastook Park as a group at 6 pm.
If you are unable to make it for 5 pm, join us at 6 pm at Woolastook Park for the hike! Please contact Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca to let her know what time you will be arriving!
Youth Takeover The Contemporary Service: Sunday, April 30
Youth will be taking over the contemporary service in the gym on Sunday, April 30. Youth are encouraged to think of how they can serve during this service. There are many areas available such as: greeting, reading Scripture, worship team, sound equipment, and more! We look forward to seeing all of our youth out, serving, and worshipping alongside our larger congregation.
Combined Youth Event at Smythe Street Church: Thursday, May 4, 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Youth are welcome and encouraged to join us on Thursday, May 4th at Smythe Street Church for a combined gathering for worship, games, and pizza. Pizza is $2 a slice. As we will be meeting on Thursday, May 4th, there will be NO YOUTH GROUP on Friday, May 5th.
Tidal Impact Fundraising Dinner: Saturday, May 27
On Saturday, May 27th, our youth will be putting on a fundraising dinner and a show for Tidal Impact. We ask that our youth think of how they can serve, and showcase their talents. All youth are encouraged to help with this fundraiser, and to support their peers! More details regarding the time, and price for tickets will follow.
One Conference: Friday, June 2 – Saturday, June 3
The One Conference is back this year from June 2nd – 3rd in Moncton from 5 pm June 2nd to 5:30 pm June 3rd. Youth will not want to miss out on this awesome opportunity to come together with so many other churches. The cost for this event is $80.00. The deadline for youth to register is April 25. If you have any questions or if cost is an issue, please contact Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca. BE A VOLUNTEER DRIVER – if you would like to be a volunteer driver for this event, please reach out to Pastor Nikki!
Youth @ BSBC: Weekly Events
Youth Choir / Greenhouse Band: Wednesdays, 6 – 6:30 pm
The youth choir is happening this evening 6 – 6:30 pm in the Barnabas Center. All youth are welcome and those who are interested in participating in the youth choir and/or Greenhouse Service band can join us tonight and can contact Julianne at julianne.d.moore@gmail.com with any questions or to express interest.
Bible Study: Wednesdays, 6:30 – 8 pm
Bible Study! Youth are welcome to come out tonight to join us as we continue through the book of Mark. All are welcome, even if you have not been previously. Join Kari Dunfield and Pastor Nikki.
Youth Group: Friday, 5 pm – Family Event Hike at Woolastook Park
Parents are encouraged to join our youth for an evening of fellowship! We are meeting at the church at 5 pm to have a quick supper together. Then at 5:40 pm, we are heading to Woolastook Park. We will meet at Woolastook Park as a group at 6 pm.
If you are unable to make it for 5 pm, join us at 6 pm at Woolastook Park for the hike! Please contact Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca to let her know what time you will be arriving!
NO High School Youth Group This Sunday – Next Sunday, May 7, 7–9 pm
11. Seeking Summer Student for NextGen Ministry
We have been fortunate to be awarded a SEED grant from the provincial government which will allow us to hire a summer student to work in our Next Gen (children/youth) ministry for 14 weeks. Details follow. Please pray with me for God’s provision of the student of His choice to help lead what will be a busy summer of ministry. Please make this summer job known to anyone you believe might be interested.
Thank you, Pastor Nikki
Community Children/Youth Worker Summer Student
Position Outline: The community children/youth worker summer student is a position created to support, foster and grow the Next Generation in the community in and around Brunswick Street Baptist Church. The ideal candidate would have problem solving skills, initiative, creativity, dependability and teachability.
Position Responsibilities:
Assisting Next Generation Pastor & Children’s Coordinators with Vacation Bible School (VBS) which includes planning, participation, recruiting volunteers and follow up
Participating in a local missions’ week tour to Saint John (lead up/follow up)
Assisting in leading weekly programming for Next Generation ministries
Developing programming for Next Generation ministries summer events
Developing programming for fall Next Generation ministries
Administrative work
Using Social Media for promotion of events and contacting individuals
Providing basic AV/IT service
Participating in KidzTown on Sunday mornings
Creating a connection point with the Next Generation cohort in the broader community (ie. Park Ministry)
Position Accountability: The Summer Student is responsible to the Brunswick Street Baptist Church Board of Deacons through the Education Committee with direct responsibility to the Next Generation Pastor.
Position Time Allotment & Wage: This summer job is made possible through the provincial SEED program for current students. Requirements for applying include: must be a resident of New Brunswick, eligible to work in Canada, a Student in current academic year and attending full-time post secondary in the fall 2023.
This position is for 14 weeks, 35 hours a week, at $17.50 per hour. Start date is negotiable. There are no other benefits associated with this position. Termination of the contract by either party requires 30 days written notice.
How To Apply
Please email your resume along with a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this position to Pastor Nikki Leftley at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca. Application deadline is May 1, 2023. Successful applicants will be contacted for an interview.
For more information, please contact Pastor Nikki Leftley by email (nikki@bsbc.nb.ca) or telephone (506-458-8348).
12. Children’s Ministry Staff Opportunities
Ecclesiastes reminds us that there is a time for every purpose under heaven. These ‘seasons’ mean transitions. In this light, we share that after many years of service, Yewande Akalusi has completed her faithful ministry as Elementary Bible Teacher in our Children’s Ministry. We sincerely thank Yewande for her faithfulness to the Word of God, to our children and this church family and pray for every blessing as she completes her eduction. Then, at the end of May, Ufuoma Akalusi will be completing her ministry as our Preschool Coordinator before leaving for Law School in Toronto.
The congregation is asked to pray for His provision in these days. Please speak to those you believe have the gifts to serve in these ways. Interested applicants should apply with a cover letter explaining why they are interested in the position and a brief summary of their Christian testimony along with a copy of a personal resume. These should be submitted to the church office by Friday, April 28. For more information please contact Pastor Nikki. Here are the individual position descriptions:
Elementary Bible Teacher
Position Outline: The Elementary Bible Teacher provides direct Bible teaching to children in this age group through weekly KidzTown ministry and if possible, at the annual Vacation Bible school.
Position Responsibilities:
Coordinate lesson themes with other elementary leaders
Prepare in advance the lessons to be taught
Deliver lessons in KidzTown and, if possible, in VBS
Meet with Next Gen Pastor as needed to review and direct this work
Position Accountability: The Elementary Bible Teacher is responsible to the Board of Deacons through the Education Committee and Pastor Nikki Leftely.
Terms of the Position: Remuneration for the position is $17.50 per hour for 5 hours per week. Four weeks (four Sundays) paid vacation is to be coordinated with the NextGen Pastor.
Preschool Coordinator
Position Outline: The Preschool Coordinator will support and facilitate the delivery of Christian Education Ministry to the church preschoolers (infancy to age four) and their parents. This will be done under the direction and support of BSBC’s Education Committee and the Lead Pastor.
Position Responsibilities:
Secure volunteers for Church-Time Preschool Ministry
Create volunteer rotations/communication with volunteers and Church Office
Prepare weekly church hour curriculum (stories and colouring pages)
Weekly washing of cups/pitchers and laundry
Coordinate sanitization of preschool toys
Purchase needed toys and other resources with approval from the Lead Pastor
Maintain stock in the snack cupboard
Change seasonal decorations for preschool check-in area
Resource crafts and craft supplies for special occasions (ie. Christmas, Easter, etc.)
Attend monthly Education Committee Meeting
Be present in the Preschool Area two Sundays a month and in worship “On Call” the remaining Sundays
Position Accountability: The Preschool Coordinator is responsible to the Board of Deacons through the Education Committee and the Lead Pastor.
Terms of the Position: Remuneration for the position is $17.50 per hour for 10 hours per week. Four weeks (four Sundays) paid vacation is to be coordinated with the Lead Pastor.
13. Meals On Wheels: An Opportunity to Care
Can You Help in May?
For those who cook, I’m back to invite you to consider providing one meal a week for a couple in our church family who are each shouldering challenging health burdens. Just click the link below and register to provide a meal sometime in that week.
Names and contact information will be provided after registering. If you are not able to deliver the meal to the northside, just let us know and we’ll arrange delivery for you. There are no dietary restrictions.
THANK YOU TO ALL who helped in the previous weeks. Know that your ‘carrying’ has been a blessing of Christ in these lives.
Pastor Greg
14. Community Events
TAKE-OUT BAKED HAM SUPPER
Friday, April 28, pick-up 4:00-5:30pm at Nashwaaksis United Church, 46 Main Street.
The delicious take-out supper includes carved baked ham, potato salad, macaroni salad, baked beans, roll, and raspberry cheesecake dessert for $15.
Please call Rindy or Tom Austin, 506-450-7151 by noon on Monday, April 24 to reserve your take-outs.
15. This Week at BSBC
Please note: FLC stands for Family Life Centre
Wednesday, April 26
8:30 Gospel on Web (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:30 Community Potluck Supper (Gym)
6:00 Youth Choir/Greenhouse Band (Barnabas Center)
6:30 Youth Bible Study (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Sanctuary Choir Practice (Choir Room)
6:30 Scouting Boys Group (K-Gr 5) (Gym/Fellowship Hall)
8:00 Youth Handbell Choir (Sanctuary)
Thursday, April 27
7:00 Women’s Prayer Breakfast (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
7:00 Men’s Prayer Breakfast (Gym, Main Kitchen)
8:30 Gospel on Web (Memorial Room, 2nd Floor, Connections Center)
9:00 Benevolent Ministry (By Appointment)
9:00 New Life Ministry (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
9:00 Days For Girls (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
10:00 G. Tranquilla (Counseling Room, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
1:30 Ladies Bible Study (CB) (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
1:30 Gospel of John Bible Study (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
4:30 Nominating Committee (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
6:00 L’Arche/Opal Drop-In (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:00 Greenhouse Band (Barnabas Center)
6:30 Bible Study - Bad Girls of the Bible (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
7:00 GriefShare (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
7:00 Handbell Choir (Sanctuary)
7:00 Mandarin Choir Practice (Barnabas Center/Choir Room)
Friday, April 28
8:30 Gospel on Web (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:00 Youth Group Family BBQ & Hike
7:00 Mandarin Fellowship (Barnabas Center and KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
Saturday, April 29
9:00 Gym Set-up (Gym)
10:00 Hands-In Girls Ministry (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
1:00 Worship Team Practice (Gym)
Sunday, April 30
7:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
9:00 Asian Sunday School (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
9:20 Sunday Morning Prayer (Counselling Room, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
9:30 Sunday School For All Ages (Family Life Center)
9:30 Portraits of Jesus (Under The Sea Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
10:15 KidzTown & Preschool Classes (2nd & 1st Floor, FLC)
10:30 Greenhouse/Contemporary Worship Service (Gym)
10:30 Mandarin Worship (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
10:30 Traditional Service (Sanctuary)
12:00 Tidal Impact Meeting (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
1:00 Mandarin Choir Practice (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Healing Service
Monday, May 1
8:30 Gospel on Web (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
1:30 Right To Life (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Social Action Team (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
7:00 Mandarin Sister Choir Rehearsal (Barnabas Center)
Tuesday, May 2
8:30 Gospel on Web (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
10:00 Library Open
12:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
1:00 Pastoral Staff Meeting (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
1:30 Quilters for Missions (Quilting Room)
2:15 Full Staff Meeting (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
6:00 Sports Friends (Wilmot Park)
7:00 Fresh Start Young Adult Ministry (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Wednesday, May 3
8:30 Gospel on Web (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:30 Community Potluck Supper (Gym)
6:00 Youth Choir/Greenhouse Band (Barnabas Center)
6:30 Youth Bible Study (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Sanctuary Choir Practice (Choir Room)
6:30 Scouting Boys Group (K-Gr 5) (Gym/Fellowship Hall)
8:00 Youth Handbell Choir (Sanctuary)
