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Our Mission for 2022
Sing to the Lord; praise his name.
Each day proclaim the good news that he saves.
Publish his glorious deeds among the nations.
Tell everyone about the amazing things he does.
Psalm 96:2-3
In this issue:
Check out what's coming up at BSBC from Feb. 23 to March 2.
Highlights from the Annual General Meeting
Mission Verses for 2022
A Fresh Start for “Fresh Start”
Youth Events for This Week
Return of the Youth Greenhouse Service
Volunteer Income Tax Program Returns
Adult Bible Studies Available to You
Refugee Updates
World Day of Prayer
Card of Thanks
Proud Grandparents
Sunday Morning: Feb. 27
Online Community Options for This Week
March Birthdays
This Week @ BSBC
1. Highlights From The Annual General Meeting
Greetings, Brothers and Sisters,
Last night provided all who gathered in person and online with a sense of unity in our fellowship. I’m grateful to Julianne Moore, Greg Keezer and Mark McAllister who led us in worship with assistance from your pastors. Thanks, as well, to our Moderator, Dr. Calvin Smith, who warmly led us through the evening. And, thank you to all who took a leadership role in leading us through the action items that came before those gathered.
The following motions passed and after the declaration of their approval, were greeted with spontaneous applause. It seems that we not only wanted to engage in these opportunities, but we also wanted to celebrate that we will GET to engage.
Sponsorship of a refugee family
Moved by Adrian Verboom, seconded by Martina Verboom that Brunswick Street Baptist Church engage in sponsorship of the six members of a family to facilitate their immigration to Canada from Lebanon; this will include Brunswick Street Baptist Church raising the estimated $45,000 in sponsorship costs and one year support when the family is settled in Fredericton. APPROVED.
Sponsorship of an individual refugee
Moved by Martina Verboom, seconded by Adrian Verboom that Brunswick Street Baptist Church engage in sponsorship of Fawda Alkrad to facilitate her immigration to Canada. All costs will be covered by the Al Krad family, to be deposited in trust with Brunswick Street Baptist Church prior to filing sponsorship documents. APPROVED.
2022 Support of 12 Neighbours
Moved by Susan Tingley Howey, seconded by Deacon Louise Billings that in 2022, Brunswick Street Baptist Church make a contribution of $15,000 to 12 Neighbours Community Inc., directed to the support of the position of Director of Community; said funds to be taken from the 2021 surplus giving. APPROVED.
2023 Support of 12 Neighbours
Moved by Susan Tingley Howey, seconded by Deacon Mark McAllister that the Brunswick Street Baptist Church Board of Deacons add 12 Neighbours Inc. (Director of Community) to the 2023 external mission budget in the amount of $7,000. Ongoing support to be reviewed each successive year. APPROVED.
Surplus Distribution
Moved by Ron Smith and seconded by Ron McMullin that the remaining 2021 surplus balance — after $15,000 designated to 12 Neighbours — be divided as follows: 25% designated to direct payment on the mortgage, 25% designated to the Board of Management for ongoing facility needs, 25% designated to the Board of Deacons for ministry development, 25% designated to the Board of Management specifically for continued enhancements to our Audio Visual/Information Technology infrastructure. APPROVED.
Budget for 2022
In addition, Scott Kennedy, our Assistant Treasurer, presented the review of our finances for 2021 and the proposed budget, prepared by our joint boards, for financial facilitation of ministry for 2022. The budget can be found in 2021 Annual Report Booklet (available from the church office if you would like one). Again, the budget passed unanimously showing, I believe, the congregation’s confidence in both our boards. Special thanks to our Treasurer, Ken Reimer, who wrangled 100s of numbers to give us a composite view of our financial goals for the year ahead.
My thanks to all who came out. We recorded 47 members ‘attending’ online and 55 members attending in person for a total of 102 engaged, last night, in Kingdom work.
When I stop and think about the total hours invested in the written reports, in addition to meetings calls and email sent in order to recruit new leaders for Boards, Committees, Teams and Groups; time spent putting together budgets and engaging in research and collaboration with exterior organizations….well, the mind boggles! But, knowing the people who have been involved in such activities, I praise God for their sacrificial investment in Kingdom building.
To God be the glory, great things HE has done!
Pastor Greg
2. Our Theme Verses for 2022
At last night's Annual General Meeting Pastor Greg offered a devotional titled “Facing Your Giants,” where he shared that one of the biggest giants he's facing is what's ahead for BSBC in a post-pandemic world.
David & Goliath
To dig deeper into this "giant" we looked at the story of David and Goliath from I Samuel 17. David, the shepherd boy, was ‘equipped’ with armour and weapons that were foreign to him. Those who “knew better” were confident that he was in need of ‘kitting out’ for such an ominous mission. But he put off the provision of others to rely on what was familiar to him — the skills he had developed through experience. And we all know how the story ends…the giant is no more.
Trusting that God has prepared us
Looking to a post pandemic world, Pastor Greg encouraged us to take our focus off of what others say we need or don't need and to be confident that God has prepared us, both individually and corporately. Our own experiences of God’s faithfulness and love are the essential tools in our hands to face the giants we find every day and we can embrace the unknown future with the confidence of Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
It's our personal testimony of God’s faithfulness in our lives that will build the Kingdom — sharing our personal stories of God's love and faithfulness. And so, our theme verses for 2022 are Psalm 96:2-3.
Sing to the Lord; praise his name.
Each day proclaim the good news that he saves.
Publish his glorious deeds among the nations.
Tell everyone about the amazing things he does.
With this as our mission, we embrace the future, heedless of the giants we may meet.
Psalm 96:2-3
3. A Fresh Start for Fresh Start
The Young Adults Ministry is going through a change!
On Tuesday, March 1, our Young Adults Ministry is changing. We'll run from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday nights. For the first hour we'll have activities in the Gym and a Board game/cafe set up on the 3rd floor. Then from 8 p.m. we’ll gather together for a RightNow Media Bible Study.
Young Adults, please join us! Invite anyone you know who may benefit from fun, growing closer in friendship and growing closer to our Saviour!
Specific prayer points:
A good response
That engagement and numbers would grow
An increased sense of excitement and joy around the young adult’s ministry
Thanks so much!
Pastor Ross
4. Youth Events This Week
We have some fun stuff coming up this week, and I am excited to let you know all about it! Greenhouse Service is back this Sunday!
Youth Bible Study
As per usual, we have the youth Bible study Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m., all are welcome to this. Youth can come to the family room in the church, or tone in online via Zoom! We will continue to go through the book of Jonah. Even if your youth have not come out prior, they are welcome to come out! Email Pastor Nikki at youth.bsbc.nb@gmail.com for the zoom link.
Youth Group
Friday’s Youth Group we have something called Clay Chaos as our main event. This is a night where we will be using clay, in a few chaotic ways. It should be a fun and interactive night. With this being said, youth are welcome to come out, and bring clothes they are not afraid to get a bit dirty, as we will be handling clay.
5. Celebrating the Return of Our Youth Greenhouse Service
Sunday, we have our first Youth Green House service of the year!
This is a service specifically for youth and led by our youth. Leading worship we have Allie and Erik Dunfield with Zammie Igwe leading us in prayer and the Scripture reading! Pastor Nikki will be offering the message looking into Hebrews 11.
The service is THIS Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in the Barnabas Center! All youth from grades 6-12 are welcome to come out and have this time of worship together! After the service there will be drinks and snacks!
Vaccinations and masks will be required for the service, so please bring your proof of vaccination if this is your first event at BSBC since the vaccine mandate has been in effect.
Church, please pray for this ministry as we launch it again and for youth to come worship and grow together.
Pastor Nikki
6. Volunteer Income Tax Ministry
The time to file 2021 taxes is almost upon us. The Canada Revenue Agency has again invited BSBC to be part of the "Community Volunteer Income Tax Program" to prepare income tax returns free of charge for seniors, students, and other low-income individuals.
7. Two Adult Bible Studies Available to You
Noon Time Online Bible Study: Walking With Jesus
“Walking with Jesus,” a study with Daniel Savard in partnership with Morning Gate Church. Daniel will be leading this study starting on Wednesday, March 9 at noon (65 minutes) on Zoom.
Here’s the intel: In this 8-part journey through the land of Israel, you’ll join Southeast Christian Church Associate Pastor Matt Reagan in visiting many of the places where Jesus lived, walked, and ministered with His disciples. As the land of the Bible comes alive before your eyes, you’ll gain fresh perspective on the life-changing power of Christ’s love and His church’s calling to make disciples who follow after Him.
For more information feel free to contact Daniel Savard at timberwolfe57@live.ca .
To register for this study, please click the link, provide your information and then hit the send button. You will be contacted with the details for online engagement.
Tuesday Night Online Bible Study: Why Easter Matters
Are you ready for Easter? Looking forward to it? Expecting spiritual renewal? Regardless of your answer, you’re invited to join me (Pastor Greg), online, four Tuesday evenings in March at 6:30 p.m. for “Why Easter Matters” by Andy Stanley. This is the companion study to the “Who Needs Christmas” study that was offered in Advent 2021.
Here’s the overview of the Easter edition:
Have you ever been at odds with God? Have you resisted, defied, or tried to bargain your way out of what you thought God wanted? You aren’t alone. Scripture documents similar stories.
In this Easter Study Andy Stanley looks at some of the people whose lives intersected with Jesus in the weeks leading to his crucifixion. Each of them had an agenda that put them at odds with God and Jesus. As you’ll see, there’s a little bit of them in all of us.
Sessions titles: (1) The High Cost of Following Christ, (2) The Risk of Surrendering to God, (3) The God Who Can Be Trusted and (4) The Foundation of Our Faith.
The study begins Tuesday, March 8 at 6:30 p.m. Please register below so that the study guide can be provided for you prior to the start date.
I look forward to sharing this journey with all who, like me, seek the power of Holy Week in your life.
Pastor Greg
8. Refugee Updates
Gelan Mohamed
Gelan Mohamed, a young Syrian refugee, was initially sponsored by Kanata Baptist church (and funded by her brothers). She arrived in Canada, after suffering incredible trauma while in Turkey without her family, and was reunited with her brothers in the summer of 2019. Shortly after her arrival, it was decided she should be in Fredericton to be with her parents. So, her sponsorship was accepted by BSBC and her brothers continued to support her financially.
This young woman quickly set goals for herself and learned English, got a full-time job and a part-time job, learned to drive, bought a car — and now has married a young Syrian man. She has relocated to Halifax with her new husband, where she will work and go to school. Our part was small, but she has had a second chance at life, and we are so proud of her. Congratulations, Gelan!
Jaber Family
Congratulations to the Jaber Family! Their son Hisham arrived safely on Feb. 10. The Jabers were sponsored by BSBC from Iraq in 2015. They have done very well since arriving here. Ahmed is driving taxi, which he did in Iraq before coming to Canada.
They have a daughter in second year university, a son graduating from high school this spring, their three oldest children have part time jobs, all four older children are doing well in school, and 4 year old Wissam is adjusting to no longer being the "baby!" We applaud this family for having the courage to start over and embracing life in Canada!!
Sheila Ross
9. World Day of Prayer
The World Day of Prayer Service Video, prepared by the Women of England, Wales and Northern Ireland and produced by the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada can be watched online at wicc.org or below. The World Day of Prayer is March 4, 2022.
A Children's program is also available at https://wicc.org/kids-pray-too-world-day-of-prayer-2022.
TV Broadcast of the World Day of Prayer will be available to watch in Fredericton and most of New Brunswick on Friday March 4, 2022 at 9 a.m., 5 p.m. and 10:05 p.m. on Bell Fiber TV channel 26 and Bell TV satellite channel 539. The link for this is: https://wicc.org/get-involved/events/
For more information contact Debbie Heustis 472-2916 or Rose Carolyn Smith 459-0073.
10. Card of Thanks
I would like to thank everyone who sent cards, letters, emails and who called with condolences after the passing of my father Rupert Tingley. I appreciate the support of my BSBC family.
Mary Tingley
11. Proud Grandparents
Bruce and Anna Marie Colpitts celebrate the arrival of their 10th grandchild. We now have 5 grandsons and 5 granddaughters. What a privilege to have so many!!!
Magdalena Rose Neufeld was born on February 6, 2022 in Edmonton, Alberta. Parents Meaghan (Colpitts) and Craig Neufeld along with Big sister Audrey and Big bother Aldo are excited about the new addition to the family.
12. Sunday Morning: Feb. 27
Again this coming Sunday, you have a choice! You can attend in-person or online. The contemporary service will be available in the gym in a return to our café setting or on Facebook Live. The traditional service will be available in the sanctuary or join on YouTube.
Attending on-line? Simply visit thestreetonline.ca and click “Worship Online” and then choose your service. One way or another, we do hope you’ll be with us.
Contemporary Service
In the gym, we’re grateful for the musical leadership of Sarah Hoyt and Mark McAllister while Pastor Ross will be offering the next instalment in the “Unleashing the Church” series in Ephesians. This week, he’ll lead the gym congregation through a study of Ephesians 4:25-32 which, in the New International version of the Scriptures is headed: Instructions for Christian Living.
Traditional Service
In the sanctuary, we look forward to the ministry of a vocal ensemble and again this week, congregational singing! Our soloist will be Claire Geldart. Dr. Keith will be offering the final instalment in a three-week mini-series entitled “The Experience of Grace.” This week’s passages for consideration are Luke 12:13-21 and Luke 16:19-31.
Dr. Keith writes: This week we will explore two parables that invite us to reconsider our ultimate investment strategy. The first parable is found in Luke 12:13-21, in the context of a discussion about sources of security. Someone in the crowd demands that Jesus tell his brother to “divide the inheritance,” but Jesus instead gives him a parable about a rich man who did not manage his portfolio very well. What does it mean, we ask in light of this episode, to be rich toward God? The second parable is found in Luke 16:19-31, and features a billionaire who did not pay much attention to a beggar named Lazarus who was at the gate of his mansion. Doug Webster insists “Jesus did not share this parable in order to justify God in the wake of injustice. Nor did he give this parable to inspire political action and bring about structural social change. The point of the parable lies behind these necessary justice issues and dwells on the meaning of the person in relationship to God and one another.” As we consider the season of Lent, how can we have relational capital that allows us to experience the fullness of Easter in a fresh way?
Online or in person, we hope you’ll take time to connect with us this week!
13. Online Community Spaces
Cardio with Ross has now finished! Thanks for joining and hope you had a bit of fun and space in the midst of the pandemic!
Cook Supper with Anna Marie
Anna Marie Colpitts welcomes you to join her in the kitchen tomorrow Feb. 24 at 5:30 p.m. to make supper together. Then join us on this Zoom link for some fun! Get the recipe and grocery list.
Meeting ID: 875 4144 6372 | Passcode: 001910
Next week's recipe
Anna Marie will be cooking with us again next week too! If you're a planner and want to get your ingredients ahead of time, you can find next week's recipe here.
14. March Birthdays
A whole new group from our church family are celebrating birthdays in March. And if your name is on the calendar….happy birthday to you!
15. This Week at BSBC: Feb. 23 to March 2
Please note: FLC stands for Family Life Centre.
Wednesday, February 23
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
6:00 Ensemble Rehearsal (Sanctuary, Choir Room)
6:30 Not Your Usual Prayer Meeting (CM) (Zoom)
6:30 Youth Bible Study (Family Room, FLC And Zoom)
Thursday, February 24
9:00 Benevolent Ministry (By Appointment)
9:30 New Life (3rd Floor Assembly Area, FLC)
1:30 Ladies Bible Study (CB) (Family Room, FLC)
1:30 Small Group Bible Study (MM) (3rd Floor Conference Room, FLC)
5:30 Cooking with Anna Marie (Zoom)
7:00 GriefShare (Family Room, FLC)
7:00 Mandarin Choir Practice (Choir Room)
Friday, February 25
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
7:00 Mandarin Fellowship (Zoom)
7:00 Youth Group Clay Chaos (3rd Floor Assembly, FLC)
Saturday, February 26
1:00 Worship Team (Gym)
Sunday, February 27
6:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom Over Main Kitchen)
9:00 Asian Sunday School Class (Boardroom Over Main Kitchen)
10:15 KidzTown (2nd Floor, FLC)
10:30 Traditional Worship Service (Sanctuary)
10:30 Contemporary Worship Service (Gym)
10:30 Mandarin Worship Service (3rd Floor Assembly Area, FLC)
10:30 Youth Greenhouse Service (Barnabas Center)
Monday, February 28
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
7:00 Board of Deacons (Zoom)
Tuesday, March 1
12:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom Over Main Kitchen)
1:00 Pastoral Staff (Family Room)
1:30 Quilters for Missions (Quilting Room)
2:15 Full Staff Meeting (Family Room)
6:30 DivorceCare (Family Room, FLC)
7:00 Fresh Start (Gym/3rd Floor Assembly Area, FLC)
Wednesday, March 2
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
6:00 Ensemble Rehearsal (Sanctuary, Choir Room)
6:30 Not Your Usual Prayer Meeting (CM) (Zoom)
6:30 Youth Bible Study (Family Room, FLC And Zoom)
