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Our mission
Experience the love of Jesus. Live it out everywhere.
In this issue:
Check out what's coming up at BSBC from Jan. 11 to 18.
NEW Women’s Thursday Night Bible Study
January Senior’s Luncheon
Bereavement
Note of Thanks
Wedding Invitation
Our Partner in Missions – Rebekah Sears Travels
Special Offerings from Christmas 2022
Sunday Morning Prayer Ministry and You
Adult Sunday School Elective Begins This Sunday
This Sunday’s Worship Services
Furniture/Household Item Needs
Sunday School Starts This Sunday
Vacation
NextGen Ministries (Children & Youth)
Reducing the Risk Training
GriefShare Ministry
DivorceCare Ministry
Muffin Mania
The Case for Faith Study - 2023
This Week @ BSBC
1. NEW: Women’s Thursday Night Bible Study
New Bible study for women starting on Thursday, January 12 from 6:30-8pm on the third floor of the Family Life Center. All women welcome! We will be starting “Bad Girls of the Bible” by Liz Curtis Higgs. Please join us as we learn about some of the most controversial women in the Bible.
Please contact Bo Vinh-Doyle with any questions or to register at vinhdoyle1@gmail.com.
2. January Senior’s Luncheon
Seniors, why not join us for our January Senior’s Luncheon on Monday, January 16 at noon in the gym? The menu is homemade soup and apple pie. Our guest speaker will be Steve Patterson, Director of Community for the 12 Neighbours initiative of providing tiny homes to help address the homelessness need in Fredericton. “Pastor” Steve will be bringing his guitar, so we’ll also delight in his musical giftedness. A suggested donation for the luncheon is $5.
Reservations are required by Friday, January 13 by 3 p.m. You can make your reservation by contacting the church office (458-8348 / receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca) or by using the link below.
Given the commitment of our Senior’s Luncheon Host Team, we’re planning on a luncheon each month on the third Monday of the month. Please DO invite family and friends to join you. We will continue to use tables of four but you can arrange your seating plans.
3. Bereavement
Our love and prayers go out to Paul Gosselin and family on the passing of his wife, Sharon, on Wednesday, Jan. 4, at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital. Sharon’s faithful ministry to BSBC’s children and decades of service as our church librarian brought her in contact with all ages. Her unique gift for picking out people in the background and making them feel welcome and valued was truly Spirit gifted. Few churches enjoy the benefits of a library like the one Sharon built at BSBC.
In addition to her beloved husband, Paul, Sharon is survived by her son, Peter (Marcia), daughters, Joy Seeley (David), Susan Johnson (Marco) and Bethany Gosselin (Richard Khadaroo); her eleven grandchildren, Matthew, Nathaniel, Elizabeth, Alex, Emma, Payten, Rashad, Maliyah, Khaleel, Hannah and Ollie. In addition, her sisters Elizabeth Klaas (John), and Jud (Leona).
A service to celebrate Sharon’s life was held at BSBC on Sunday, Jan. 8.
4. Note of Thanks
Paul Gosselin and family would like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who called, visited, prayed, dropped food off and attended Sharon’s end of life celebrations. Your presence helped us make it through some difficult days. We are grateful for such a wonderful church family and friends.
5. Wedding Invitation
Charlie Ritchie and his fiancé, Sabrina Liu, invite you to attend their service of marriage at Brunswick Street Baptist Church on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. The service will be conducted by Dr. Keith McMullin.
6. Our Partner in Mission: Rebekah Sears Travels
Hello BSBC Church Family,
I can't believe I'm leaving for my African adventure in just over a week (Jan 14th)! Things are coming together nicely. The last detail has been the visa for DR Congo, including getting all of the necessary information from the ground. But I just dropped off my visa application for DRC this morning, and the receiver says things look good and I should hear in 3-4 days. That's the last of the preparation hurdles, as we have our tickets and are otherwise all set to go.
The situation in DRC is better, but still not quite on a positive trajectory. Our staff are confident in our security, however, as much as its in their hands, and we're having a briefing about it next week. But that briefing is more for preparation, not to make a decision to go or not. We all are confident in the prospect of going, that it is in no way an unnecessary risk. Lord willing we'll be on the ground in Congo on the 22nd.
My schedule goes as follows:
Jan 14-16 travel
Jan 16-21: Zimbabwe
Jan 22-29: DR Congo
Jan 29- Feb 3 Rwanda
Feb 3-4 travel home
For prayer:
I'm still asking for prayer for the visa process, that there are no more hurdles, and that my visa, plus that of my colleague coming with me, comes in fine
For security and safety for us and our partners as we travel and visit. That we would have wisdom in making decisions, to not put ourselves and/or our partners at risk, and that God would protect us
For myself and my own health, physically, but also mentally, that God would give me the peace, energy and grace I need
For travels, both in planes and on the ground
For the work of our partners, working to promote peace and care for others in often precarious circumstances, and for good and productive meetings with us, as we learn about their work, the situation and how we can best support from Canada
Thanks all,
In Peace,
Bekah
7. Special Offerings from Christmas 2022
Dear Church Family,
Thank you for your sacrificial giving to special offerings in the last weeks of 2022. You have shown remarkable generosity. We give God the glory and pray that these funds will be a blessing in the lives touched.
Christmas Offering 2022: $9,050.00 (2022 Goal $10,000)
Candlelight Offering to the Community Kitchen: $2,124.76
Starting Local (New Life/Third Sunday Supper): $11,517.50 (2021: $9,386.00)
Going Global (Ukraine Refugee Relief): $15,938.07 (2021: $10,360.08)
With thanks,
Pastor Greg
8. Sunday Morning Prayer Meeting
Prayer is communication with God on His terms.
Prayer is a demonstration of faith, a spiritual exercise that aligns our thoughts with God's.
A.W. Tozer mentions that prayer is also the great leveler of men, where the most illiterate person in the world can pray, and the most cultured person in the universe cannot do better.
Prayer is our most powerful weapon yet also somewhat hard to comprehend, so let's bow our heads and learn a thing or two about prayer together!
You are invited every Sunday morning, from 9:20 until 10:15 a.m., in the larger counselling room, on the second floor of the gym entrance, as we will gather to pray and glean wise insights about prayer from the book "Going Higher with God in Prayer" written by A.W. Tozer.
See you there!
Charles Millette (Charles.Millette@sim.org)
9. Sunday Morning Adult Sunday School Class
This Sunday morning, 9:30 a.m., Jan. 15, join Pastor Ross in the Family Room for the first week of The Reason for God by Tim Keller.
After this initial week, the six-week study will be led by Peter & Maureen Steeves.
10. This Sunday’s Worship Services
Whether in-person or online, we hope that you’ll join us for worship this coming Sunday morning, Jan. 15.
In the gym, Pastor Ross will offer the second sermon in the series “What Jesus Didn’t Say.” He’ll consider themes that make that the rounds but are theologically unsound and hurtful to Kingdom work. Deacon Greg Keezer and team will lead you in worship.
In the sanctuary, the service will be led by Pastor Greg with assistance from Dale & Carol Bray, soloist Chris Graves and our Sanctuary Choir. Dr. Keith is offering his second sermon in the new series on the gospel of Mark titled “The Announcement.” Of this message, based on Mark 1:14-28, he writes: The opening moments of Mark’s Gospel unfurl the prophetic word of Isaiah about a new exodus that is at hand, and it is followed up with the activity of John and the baptism of Jesus prior to his testing in the wilderness. This week we continue the story with the first words of Jesus in this gospel narrative, and it just so happens to be the greatest tweet in the history of humanity: “The kingdom of God at hand, so repent and believe the good news!”
In 147 characters or less, Mark 1:15 tells who Jesus is, outlines the opportunity that is right in front of us, and shows us the best way to respond to this message of grace. Notably, this call for a response to the gospel is followed up immediately with an invitation to the first disciples, with an allusion to an important background text in Jeremiah 16. What is a disciple called to do, and how can these passages in Mark 1 and Jeremiah alter our approach to life in this coming week? As we unpack these powerful verses, a surprising amount of practical application will present itself as we seek to follow the Lord in this new year.
Psalm 34:3
O magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt his name together.
11.Furniture/Household Item Needs
Benevolent Ministry Request
Doug McAllister, our Benevolent Coordinator, would like you to know that a senior has a need for some sturdy furniture (this is large person). The needs are a double mattress, a couch and a Lazyboy-type chair with big arms. If you can help in any way, please contact the church office (458-8348 / receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca). Thank you.
Social Action Team Refugee Ministry
In early in December, Souaibou, our new church family member, moved into his permanent housing and as you’ve seen, Lori Wightman was able to create a list of items that will help make his apartment his home.
Thanks to those who have been able to help thus far. We are now down to furniture items. If you are able to provide any of the following items, please email Lori to let her know and make arrangements to get the item to Souaibou’s home. You can reach Lori at: lori@wightmanfamily.org.
Furniture Needs:
"Smallish" Sofa and Living Room Chairs
TV Stand
Bedroom Dresser or Shelving for Clothes
Small Coffee Table
2 Table Lamps
Standing Floor Lamp
12. Sunday School & KidzTown
THIS SUNDAY we welcome back Sunday School in addition to KidzTown (elementary) and Children’s Church (preschool). We are so grateful to our children, youth and adult ministry leaders for their faithful service.
13. Vacation
Please be in prayer for Pastor Greg and Margaret as they take vacation time from Monday, January 2 returning to ministry on Sunday, January 15. Over that time Pastor Ross and Pastor Nikki will be available should you have a need – simply contact the church office.
14. NextGen Ministries
Almost all of our youth and children’s gatherings are back in full swing this week!
Children @ BSBC
Wednesday, Jan. 11, 6:30 pm: Elementary (K- Grade 5) Scouting Boys Returns!
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.
Saturday, Jan. 14, 10 a.m. – noon: Hands–In Girls Ministry
Hands–In Girls Ministry is happening again this month, on Saturday, Jan. 14 up in KidzTown from 10 a.m. to noon! All girls from Kindergarten to Grade 5 are encouraged to join Allie Dunfield and her team for this time of friends, faith, and fun. To register for this event please CLICK HERE.
Youth @ BSBC
Wednesday, Jan. 11, 6:30 – 8pm: Bible Study Returns
Youth are welcome and encouraged to come out and join Kari Dunfield and Pastor Nikki as we begin a new series through the book of Mark, Wednesday, Jan. 11 from 6:30 – 8 pm.
Thursday, Jan. 12, 7pm: Middle & High School (Grade 6-12) Scouting Boys Returns!
BSBC offers a scouting program for boys from Grade 6 - 12. 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 bi-weekly in the church gym on Thursday evenings. For more information, please contact the church office at 458-8348 or bsbc@bsbc.nb.ca.
Friday, Jan. 13, 7 – 9pm: Youth Group New Years Kick-Off
We are back, and will be having our youth kick-off this Friday! Our leaders are ready and excited to be back together after the holidays. We look forward to seeing all our youth for a night of games, fun, community, and snacks — including a hot chocolate bar! Invite your friends and be ready for a great start to the new year in BSBC’s youth community! Email Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca for more info!
Sunday, Jan. 15, 7 – 9pm: High School Youth Group Kick-Off
We welcome our high schoolers to come out next Sunday for our first high school youth event of the year! Meet on the third floor Sunday, Jan. 15 at 7 pm, for a night of fun, community, and great discussions on faith/life! The following Sunday, Jan. 22 we will be doing an offsite skating event. Email Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca if you have any questions, comments, or concerns!
Opportunities to Serve
If your youth would like to get more involved in using their gifts/talents by serving in the larger BSBC community, there are many ways they can serve like Sunday morning tech, greeting Sunday mornings, preschool ministry, Third Sunday Supper, etc. Reach out to Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca to learn how your youth can get involved!
Sunday, Jan. 29, 10:30am: Greenhouse Service
Our Greenhouse Service is back! Tell all of your friends about this and join us in the Barnabas Center at 10:30am, on Jan. 29! Come worship, grow in community with one another, and learn how to use your gifts and talents better at Greenhouse. If you want more information about the Greenhouse Service or would like to serve in the service in any way please reach out to Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.
Tidal Impact: July 2023
It is my pleasure to tell you that Tidal Impact is coming to Saint John from July 22-28 and that all youth from grades 6-12 are invited to participate!
Tidal Impact is a week-long mission tour that is organized by the Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada (CBAC). The goal of Tidal Impact is to bring Jesus' love into our community through acts of service. To do this, the CBAC brings churches from across Atlantic Canada together so that churches from the Fredericton area can be a gateway for visitors into our community. Tidal Impact allows youth to deepen their faith through acts of service, grow in teamwork and leadership skills, and embrace the Saint John area as a mission field!
Please begin to think about if your youth would like to attend and be a part of this great opportunity to serve our local community. More information for registration is coming soon, students must be registered by March of 2023. We as a youth group will be fundraising for this event to lower the overall cost for those attending. More information to follow. If you have any questions or comments please email pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.
More exciting youth events coming up, stay tuned! Have a wonderful week!
14. Reducing the Risk Training
Calling all of our volunteers who serve in ministries with those of the vulnerable sectors (preschool, children, youth, Third Sunday Supper, senior care visitations, etc.) For those serving in these ministries, two different sessions are being offered — one in Mandarin and one in English.
Our Mandarin session is on Jan. 15 after church in the Barnabas Center, and our English session is on Jan. 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the Barnabas Center. You only need to attend this one-hour session if you did not already attend the in-person session back in November.
Completing this training is part of the process to serve those of vulnerable sectors. If you have any questions regarding this please contact Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.
15. GriefShare Ministry
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 in the Family Life Center at Brunswick Street Baptist Church starting Thursday, Jan. 19, 2023 from 7-9 p.m. for 13 weeks. Please contact the church office (458-8348 / receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca) for more information and to register.
16. DivorceCare Ministry
If you or someone you know is going through the transition of marital separation or divorce, encourage them to consider joining our DivorceCare ministry. At DivorceCare they’ll find people who understand because they’ve “been there” and videos that help normalize the many emotions and challenges of navigating this life change.
DivorceCare begins on Tuesday, Jan. 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the Family Room. For more information or to register, please contact the church office (458-8348/receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca).
17. Muffin Mania
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 now open for 2023. You can sign up right up until the end of March. We still require 3 dozen muffins per week.
How you can sign up
Please click the link below to sign up to serve in this way. OR call the church office (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.
18. The Case for Faith Study 2023
This six-week study is back in 2023 for all people who have questions regarding their faith. Learn more and register by clicking the link below.
19. This Week at BSBC
(Please note: FLC stands for Family Life Center)
Wednesday, January 11
10:00 Seniors Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
4:00 G. Tranquilla (Barnabas Center)
5:30 Community Potluck (Gym)
6:30 Scouting Boys Ministry (K-Gr 5) (Gym, Fellowship Hall)
6:30 Youth Bible Study (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Sanctuary Choir Practice (Choir Room)
Thursday, January 12
9:00 Benevolent Ministry (By Appointment)
9:00 Days For Girls (Room 219, KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
9:00 New Life Ministry (Third Floor Assembly)
10:30 G. Tranquilla (Barnabas Center)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
1:30 Ladies Bible Study (Family Room, FLC)
1:30 Gospel of John Bible Study (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Bible Study “Bad Girls of the Bible” (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
7:00 Scouting Boys Ministry (Gr 6-12) (Gym)
7:00 Handbell Choir (Sanctuary)
7:00 Mandarin Choir Practice (Choir Room)
Friday, January 13
10:00 Seniors Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
7:00 Friday Youth Group (Fellowship Hall, Gym, Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
7:00 Mandarin Fellowship (Barnabas Center, KidzTown)
Saturday, January 14
9:00 Gym Set-up (Gym)
9:30 GHLC (A. Wilton) (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
10:00 Girls Hands-In Ministry (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
1:00 Worship Team Practice (Gym)
Sunday, January 15
7:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom, 2nd Floor Over Main Kitchen)
9:00 Asian Sunday School (Boardroom, 2nd Floor Over Main Kitchen)
9:30 Sunday School For All Ages (FLC)
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)
12:15 Reducing the Risk (Barnabas Center)
5:00 Third Sunday Supper (Gym)
6:30 High School Youth Group (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Monday, January 16
10:00 Seniors Exercise (Gym)
12:00 January Senior’s Luncheon (Gym)
7:00 Board of Management Meeting (Gym)
7:00 Mandarin Sister Choir Ministry (Barnabas Center)
Tuesday, January 17
10:30 Pastoral Staff Meeting
12:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom, 2nd Floor Over Main Kitchen)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
12:00 Staff Lunch (Home of Greg & Margaret Geldart)
1:30 Quilters for Missions (Quilting Room)
6:00 Sports Friends (Gym)
6:30 DivorceCare (Family Room)
6:30 Reducing the Risk (Barnabas Center)
7:00 Fresh Start Young Adult Ministry (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
7:00 Missions Committee Meeting (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Wednesday, January 18
10:00 Seniors Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:30 Community Potluck (Gym)
6:30 Scouting Boys Ministry (K-Gr 5) (Gym, Fellowship Hall)
6:30 Youth Bible Study (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Sanctuary Choir Practice (Choir Room)
