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Experience the love of Jesus. Live it out everywhere.
In this issue:
Check out what's coming up at BSBC from April 5 to 12.
An Apology to Our Gym Worshippers
Upcoming Prayer & Healing Services
The East Coast Brass Easter Saturday AFTERNOON Concert
Holy Week @ BSBC
Maundy Thursday Communion Service (April 6, 6:30 pm)
Good Friday Service (April 7, 10:30 am)
Easter Sunday Celebration Stations (April 9, 8 am)
Easter Sunday Pancake Breakfast (April 9, 8:30 am)
Easter Sunday Fun-Filled-Frolic for All Ages (April 9, 9:30 am)
Easter Morning Worship Celebrations (April 9, 10:30 am)
An Invitation from the Mandarin Congregation
Easter Flowers in Honour or In Memory
BSBC Easter Celebration Offering Goal
Library Resources for Easter
Women’s Missionary Meeting
NextGen Ministry @ BSBC (Children & Youth)
Seeking Summer Student for NextGen Ministry
Children’s Ministry Staff Openings
Support for Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada
Meals on Wheels: Opportunity to Care
Community Opportunities
This Week @ BSBC
1. An Apology to Our Gym Worshippers
Dear Gym Folks,
I apologize for making it so that you did not have an opportunity to vote in favour of Pastor Ross being sent on to be interviewed, at the request of the BSBC church family, in order for us to ordain him.
The sanctuary service finished much earlier than anticipated. After about 15 minutes, I went up to the gym and found that you were just about to engage in your Soaking Time. We were seeing people start to leave in the sanctuary and as I was thinking of this as a formality, I pushed for us to conclude the business before we lost a quorum, not knowing how many members would be coming from the gym.
However, in hindsight, I’ve realized that this took away your ability to have your part in blessing Pastor Ross and affirming your importance in such decisions. I’m very sorry for that. And I wanted to affirm that this resolution not only came to be but is duly noted for the future.
My sincere thanks to those of you who planned to make the trek to the sanctuary to engage in the business of the congregation. In my 21 years of being at BSBC this is the first time we have had to call a Business Meeting on a Sunday. It’s not the norm and I don’t believe will become so.
Thank you for your (anticipated) grace.
Pastor Greg
2. Upcoming Prayer & Healing Services
In the pre-Covid world, we would occasionally hold a Sunday evening “Healing Service” — 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 for you at this point in your spiritual journey.
There will be three “Healing Services” held on Sunday evenings at 6:30 p.m. on April 16, 30 and May 7. I look forward to sharing this quiet and powerful time with you.
Pastor Greg
3. The East Coast Brass Easter Saturday Afternoon Concert
There’s a lot to ponder during Holy Week. At BSBC, Easter Saturday is a day where we begin to move from the trauma of the cross toward the empty tomb. And so, on Easter Saturday at 3 p.m. our special guests will help us do just that.
The East Coast Brass will present a concert of music you’ll know and music you’ll want to remember! Known for their engaging performances that include a ‘colour commentary’ on the music presented, their concerts are perfect for all ages.
Please tell your family and friends about this special occasion and these special guests, including our own Jim Tranquilla who leads the group. Plan for joy, power, majesty, humour and more!
There is no admission charge, but we will be taking a retiring offering in support of our musicians. Anything over their costs will be donated to our ministry to Fredericton’s unhoused citizens.
We hope that you’ll be here to begin to embrace the JOY of Easter.
East Coast Brass is an exciting addition to the NB music scene with a desire to share the joy of great brass music. ECB is a collaborative ensemble that brings together professional brass musicians from across the Maritimes with a shared vision to create programming that is unique to the region while showcasing high level performance and constantly seeking for new musical partnerships. East Coast Brass has five core members but adapts personnel to fit any musical project. For larger projects we assemble colleagues from across the Maritimes to come together as a collective and further explore and expand the brass genre.
4. Holy Week at BSBC
It’s Holy Week. That week of the year when we follow Jesus’ journey of sacrifice and victory…out of an eternal love for humanity. You might not be able to attend everything, but we encourage you to find something to enrich your spiritual life. PLEASE feel free to invite your family and friends.
Maundy Thursday Communion Tenebrae Service
Thursday, April 6, 6:30 p.m.
On the Thursday of Holy Week, Jesus gathered with his disciples in the upper room. There he gave them a new covenant “in his blood”. Knowing that we would need to be reminded of what he did for us, he used bread and wine so that we could actually hold these symbols of grace in our own hands. This year’s Maundy Thursday service will be held in the Sanctuary and will include the ministry of a vocal ensemble whose singing will lead you in worship and whose offerings will underscore the meaning of the evening. After the service of the Lord’s Table, we’ll hear the events that unfolded in Jesus’ life between the upper room and the cross. This will leave our heart’s prepared to gather at Calvary.
Good Friday Service
Friday, April 7, 10:30 a.m.
Personal experience of God’s love for us in Jesus is what makes the Friday of Holy Week, good. Scandalous torture. The Lamb of God offers the full and final sacrifice for the sin of humanity. In song, Scripture and sermon we’ll consider the cost to Jesus of the forgiveness we can receive through faith in Him. Dr. Keith will be bringing the message. Our worship team and choir will lead us. It’s said that we can’t fully understand the victory of Easter Sunday without a focus on the Jesus’ willing sacrifice on Good Friday. We will “behold” that Lamb of God who continues to take away the sin of the world.
An Easter Celebration with East Coast Brass
Saturday, April 8, 3 p.m.
Please see the first article in this week’s newsletter.
Easter Sunday Celebration Stations
Sunday, April 9, 8 a.m.
Join us in the sanctuary for opening Scripture and prayer and then head off to visit the Easter morning Celebration Stations which will be located on the first floor of the Family Life Center. At each station you’ll have opportunity to engage in an action that affirms the implications of Jesus being alive for us! Pastor Ross and Pastor Nikki will be your hosts. When finished, come to the gym for breakfast!
Easter Sunday Pancake Breakfast
Sunday, April 9, 8:30 a.m.
Many times we read of Jesus gathering with his disciples around the table. So, on his day of resurrection, we will, too. The menu features: pancakes and syrup, hot cross buns, fresh fruit, juice, coffee and tea all served in the gym. But we need your help…by making your reservation if you are planning on joining us.
You can sign up using the reservation sheets on the welcome table in the sanctuary and gym foyers or on the desk of the Connections Center
You can call the church office to register (506-458-8348)
You can email the church office to register (naomi.phillips@bsbc.nb.ca)
You can use the link in our weekly newsletter
Please make your reservations by Thursday, April 6, 5 PM. Thank you for planning ahead.
Easter Sunday Fun-Filled-Frolic For All Ages
Sunday, April 9, 9:30 a.m.
Between the breakfast and our services we’re offering you two special events. The first will be in KidzTown and is especially geared to children/families. Pastors Ross and Nikki are planning games and activities that create a joy-filled time together. For those who might not be able to take that much excitement, please gather in the Family Room where you’ll enjoy a Easter video presentation and activity. Breakfast goers, as we need to set up the gym for the morning service, breakfast will finish at 9:30 am and we’ll need you to engage in a gathering. Thanks for helping in this way.
Easter Morning Worship Celebrations
Sunday, April 9, 10:30 a.m.
Our Easter celebrations in the gym and sanctuary will be brimming with joy! 1 Peter 1:3 says: Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. So, expect services of “praise” and of thankfulness – given what this day means – the possibility of a ‘new birth into a living hope.’ We’ll welcome participation by members of The East Coast Brass. “Christ the Lord is risen today! Alleluia!”
5. An Invitation from Our Mandarin Congregation
We have received a very special invitation from our Mandarin brothers and sisters to join them for their Good Friday worship service in the church sanctuary this Friday, April 7 from 7-9 pm. In his invitation, Pastor Changin offered: We do have 3 English hymns in Mandarin (Tis Midnight and On Olive’s Brow; O Sacred Head, Now Wounded and Lead me to Calvary). If unable to attend, please pray for this to be a powerful time of worship before the Lord.
6. Easter Flowers
We invite you to help us celebrate Jesus’ resurrection by placing spring plants in memory or honour of your loved ones. You can make arrangements through the church office OR using the link below. Please be sure, when remitting your $15/plant, to identify your gift “Easter Flowers” so that your donation will be credited to the correct account. Thank you. Deadline for donations is Wednesday, April 5. These will be acknowledged in the pre-service slide shows on Easter Sunday morning and then, in this newsletter on Wednesday, April 12.
7. Easter BSBC Celebration Offering Goal
Each year, at our February Annual General Meeting, the congregation sets a financial goal for special Celebration Offerings. A means of inviting our church family to make a unique offering as a means of celebrating, in this case, the good news of Easter. Our goal for 2023 is $10,000. Thank you for considering such a gift. Visit our ‘giving’ page for details.
8. Library Resources For All Ages
Our church library is open each Sunday morning and has some great Easter reading and many other resources. Our volunteers will help you find something right for you.
9. Women’s Missionary Meeting
BSBC’s WMS will meet on Easter Monday, April 10 at 2 p.m. in the Assembly Area, 3rd Floor of the Family Life Center. All ladies welcome.
Reminder: It’s time to renew Tidings subscriptions.
10. NextGen Ministry
Children @ BSBC
Elementary (K – Grade 5) Scouting Boys: April 5, 6:30 p.m.
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
No Youth Choir / Greenhouse Band: This Week
Back Next Week: April 12, 6 – 6:30 pm
Youth Choir is on a break this week and returning next Wednesday, April 12 from 6-6:30 p.m. in the Barnabas Centre. All youth who are interested in participating in the Youth Choir and/or Greenhouse Service band are welcome and can contact Julianne at julianne.d.moore@gmail.com.
Bible Study: Wednesday, April 5, 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. If you have any questions, please email Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.
No Youth Group This Friday
Back Next Week: April 14, 7 – 9 pm
We welcome all of our youth to join us this Friday at 10:30 a.m. for our Good Friday service. There will be no youth group this Friday evening due to the holiday. Join us next Friday, April 14 from 7-9 p.m.
No High School Youth Group This Easter Sunday
Back Next Week: April 16, 7 – 9 pm
There will be no High School Youth Group this week. We welcome all high school youth to join us for festivities on Easter Sunday morning. Our next gathering is Sunday, April 16 from 7 – 9 p.m.
11. Seeking Summer Student for NextGen Ministry
We are 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 April 15, 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 14. 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. Supporting Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada
On the second Sunday of February our special guest was Dr. Terry Atkinson, former senior pastor of BSBC and now Interim Executive Minister of our denomination, Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada (CBAC). During his presentation, Dr. Terry shared the financial need of our denomination facing a massive deficit for 2022. He asked that we would pray over this need and in my conversation with him following the service, we discussed how BSBC might help.
Both of the Board of Management and Board of Deacons considered the need faced by our denominational leadership. Recognizing that in 2023, BSBC has committed to continue with considerable support through our annual budget in the amount of $73,200, the Board of Deacons invite individual members of our church family to consider making an additional gift specifically toward CBAC deficit reduction. If you would like to make a financial contribution to this cause, simply indicate “CBAC Deficit” on your envelope. We will collect gifts until the end of April and then send the giving on to the CBAC.
Thank you for prayerfully considering if you are able to help in this way.
Pastor Greg
14. Meals on Wheels: An Opportunity to Care
Dr. Keith, in last Sunday’s sanctuary service preached on the account of the four friends who were determined to care for their friend who needed to have the power of Jesus poured out on his life. These ‘stretcher bearers’ were fulfilling the intentions of Galatians 6. “Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” We were never meant to do life alone. We need the love and care of others, as much as we are needed by others in the same ways. There are so many ways to be ‘stretcher bearers’.
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
15. Community Events
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.
16. This Week at BSBC
Please note: FLC stands for Family Life Centre
Wednesday, April 5
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
11:00 G. Tranquilla (Barnabas Center)
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, FLC0
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 6
7:00 Men’s Prayer Breakfast (Gym, Main Kitchen)
9:00 Benevolent Ministry (By Appointment)
9:00 Days For Girls (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, Room 219, FLC)
9:00 New Life Ministry (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
11:00 G. Tranquilla (Barnabas Center)
1:30 Ladies Bible Study (CB) (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
1:30 Gospel of John Bible Study (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:00 L’Arche/Opal Drop-In (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Maundy Thursday Service (Sanctuary)
7:00 Scouting Boys - Grades 6-12 (Gym)
7:00 Mandarin Choir Practice (Barnabas Center/Choir Room)
Friday, April 7
Good Friday - Church Office Closed
10:30 Good Friday Worship Service (Sanctuary)
7:00 Mandarin Good Friday Worship (Sanctuary and KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
Saturday, April 8
9:00 Gym Set-up (Gym)
10:00 Hands-In Girls Ministry (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
1:00 Worship Team Practice (Gym)
3:00 East Coast Brass Concert (Sanctuary)
Sunday, April 9
7:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
8:00 SonRise Service (Sanctuary)
8:30 Easter Morning Pancake Breakfast
9:30 Easter Morning Multi-Age Event
10:15 KidzTown & Preschool Classes (2nd & 1st Floor, FLC)
10:30 Contemporary Worship (Gym)
10:30 Mandarin Worship (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
10:30 Traditional Service (Sanctuary)
Monday, April 10
Easter Monday - Church Office Closed
2:00 WMS Meeting (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Education Committee (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Tuesday, April 11
10:00 Library Open
12:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
12:00 Community Volunteer Income Tax Clinic 2023 (Gym)
1:30 Quilters for Missions (Quilting Room)
6:00 Sports Friends (Gym)
6:30 DivorceCare (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
7:00 Missions Committee Meeting (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
7:00 Fresh Start Young Adult Ministry (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Wednesday, April 12
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/Fe
