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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 June 1 to 8.
Church BBQ: June 12
Recognizing Our Grads: June 12
Register for Fall Sunday School
Invite from Your Social Action Team
Spring Business Meeting: Thursday, June 2 at 7 p.m.
Helping Children Go To Green Hill Lake Camp
KidzTown Children’s Mission
Pastoral Staff Vacations Summer 2022
Summer Office Hours
Children’s Half-Day Summer Camp
NextGen Ministries @ BSBC
Upcoming Memorial Service
Sunday Morning: June 5
Children’s Summer Camps @ Grace Memorial Baptist Church
This Week @ BSBC
1. Church BBQ: June 12
After a COVID-19 hiatus, our church family BBQ celebration is back! That’s right, after the services on June 12, join us in the church parking lot for:
BBQ-ed Hot Dogs
Veggies, Fruit, Chips
Fruit Punch, Ice Tea, Water
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Special Seating/Service for Seniors
Bouncy Castle and Activities for the Kiddos
Bring Your Wallet To Visit the KidzTown “Bake, Used Book, Used Toy” Table
Fellowship, Laughter, Togetherness
No Reservations Required
What do you need to do?
Pray for Sunshine…But Not Too Much Sunshine ☀️
Plan to Attend
How Can You Help?
Volunteer for the Set-Up Team (setting up the tents, tables, etc.)
Volunteer to Help Get the Food Out to the BBQ Location and Serve
Volunteer for a 20 Minute Time of Supervision of Children in the Bouncy Castle (Adults Only)
Volunteer to Help With the Clean Up/Wash Up/Putting Away
To volunteer, click the link button below and let us know…we’ll be sure to get back to you.
2. Recognizing Our Grads
Not only do we have a BBQ on June 12, we're celebrating our graduates in both services. Grads from university, community college, other post-secondary training please come. High School grads – we especially want to invite you to come so we can introduce you to both congregations. Don’t be shy. You deserve the recognition! Your church family want to meet you, pray for you and celebrate your accomplishment.
Grads, on June 12, meet Pastor Nikki in the Family Room at 10 a.m. We'll have some treats for you and take a group photo of you with the grad cake that will be served at the BBQ. Pastor Nikki will be your leader for the morning. Grads (or parents of grads) please let us know you’ll be with us by clicking the link and registering for the morning.
3. Register for Fall Sunday School
Your Education Committee is looking toward the fall and Sunday School. Yet, with the two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, we have no idea how to plan. We need your help.
We’ve heard from some families that they are not planning to return to Sunday School in the fall, feeling that the church-time ministries of KidzTown and Preschool provide the spiritual engagement they need. So, as we prepare for fall 2022, we really need you — regardless of your age — to confirm whether you'll participate on a regular basis (not necessarily every Sunday) in the ministry of Sunday School.
How your input informs fall 2022
This information is essential as we work to recruit teachers and determine potential numbers, which will inform class groupings — especially in the children’s ministry. And speaking of teachers, it would be great if you would indicate if you would be willing to explore taking a Sunday School teaching position.
You’ve heard that we live in unprecedented times? Promoting Sunday School in June is certainly an expression of this. Your participation now ensures that we're ready for fall launch. This is not to say that if you don't register in June you can’t attend in the fall, but we’re sure you’ll understand that your engagement now is essential for fall planning. In short, we can’t do it without you!
With thanks,
Your Education Committee
4. Invitations from Your Social Action Team
Looking for a way you can help your community? Your Social Action Team has many opportunities for you to get involved!
5. Spring Business Meeting
Our Church Moderator, Calvin Smith, is calling for the church family to gather for the Spring Business Meeting THIS Thursday, June 2, at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary (or on Zoom).
There will be presentations from your Boards of Deacons and Management, Social Action Team and pastors. The Accountant Reviewed Financial Statements for 2022 — which require congregational approval — will also be presented. Copies of the Reviewed Financial Statements for 2021 will be available one week in advance by contacting the church office.
Thank you for registering in advance to help us ensure a quorum or to receive the Zoom link for the meeting.
And thank you for making the Spring Business Meeting part of your early June.
6. Sponsoring Children to Attend Green Hill Lake Camp
Each year, we have the privilege of raising funds to facilitate children having a summer Christian camping experience at Green Hill Lake Camp. The costs for a week of camp have, like everything else, increased. The price is approximately $500 per week. Many families find it impossible to afford such an experience for their children.
This year, the children we seek to sponsor come from our New Life Ministry, which provides spiritual support for moms living in challenging situations. In addition, there are children connected with the BSBC family who are seeking support. At this point, our goal for 2022 is $2,500. If you can partner with us in this way, please mark your gift “GHLC Sponsorship.” We’ll keep you posted on the giving to the fund.
If you know of a family seeking sponsorship, please contact Pastor Greg at greg@bsbc.nb.ca, and we’ll consider each request.
Pastor Greg
Giving as of Tuesday, May 31: $1,818.94
Funds Raised by Youth Ministry: $790.00
Total to Date: $2,578.94 (Thank you!!)
7. KidzTown Children's Mission
Whether God calls us to the ends of the world or the house down the street, we are all called to share the love of Christ with others.
In a culture that continuously strives for “bigger and better” and encourages (even demands) self-centeredness, our role in teaching children about the love of Jesus and possessing a global view is increasingly essential.
“Missions” may be a broad term that encompasses much more than we might realize. Still, our children understand the very core of the concept and willingly want to make a difference in the lives of some East African and Ukrainian children.
It all started a couple of months ago after welcoming Carol Bray at KidzTown. Carol talked to the children about Missions and mentioned how sad it was that some East African children could not go to school because they did not have uniforms and had only one set of clothes to wear (sometimes not even that). After the visit, we brainstormed for a while, and we could see how touched the children were.
That is when they came up with the idea to raise some money to fund uniforms for some of the children in that particular situation. The ideas just poured in, and, together, we started to write an action plan so we could submit it to our church leaders. We praise the Lord that the idea was well accepted, and every week, portions of their allowance, small change given by parents and lots of ideas were brought to our time together at church. So far, we have raised close to $80.00.
The children also thought of having a “Mission Sale,” and we believe that our church family picnic next month would be the ideal time and spot. The children will produce, with their parents, baking goods, new-to-you books and toys, and their own drawings and paintings for sale by donation.
Children play a crucial role in spreading the gospel, and to be effective witnesses for Christ, they have to be given the opportunity to serve the best way they can. A “mission project” such as this teaches fundamental gospel truths to them, and it teaches all of us that we must rejoice with every opportunity to serve the Lord.
For Our Elementary Children,
Tina Franca, Elementary Coordinator
8. Upcoming Pastoral Staff Vacations
Pastor Ross
Please be in prayer for Pastor Ross, Fi, Eden, Ariel and Zion as they enjoy a week of vacation, starting on Monday, May 30. Pastor Ross will return to ministry on Monday, June 6. Please also pray for Pastor Ross’ parents, the Watters Senior, who are coming from Scotland to Fredericton on their first visit during this time. Please pray for safe travel and great family time. I’m sure we’re all looking forward to welcoming them to Fredericton. Pastor Ross will take a second week of vacation from Monday, July 18, returning to ministry on Monday, July 25.
Pastor Nikki
At this point, Pastor Nikki is planning a short trip home to Ontario to spend Father’s Day weekend with family. She will be gone from June 17 to June 20. She is still considering 2 weeks she might take off over the summer. Stay tuned!
Dr. Keith
Given the parameters of his contract, Dr. Bodner will be preaching up to and including Sunday, July 10 and then will be back with us for the first Sunday in September. Pray for the Bodners as they plan summer travels to the west coast to visit with family.
Pastor Greg
Your Board of Deacons want to offer a special update on Pastor Greg’s time off for summer 2022. Given the extraordinary interim period and celebrating the arrival of Pastors Nikki and Ross to fill permanent pastoral positions, the Board is granting Pastor Greg’s request for an extended time off. Pastor Greg will begin a month of vacation on Monday, June 6, returning to ministry on Monday, July 4. Then, he will have a second month of leave from Monday, July 25 returning to ministry on Monday, August 22.
We are confident that the congregation will be supportive of the added time off for summer 2022. During both times off, Pastor Ross will be providing pastoral leadership/care as will Pastor Nikki, excepting her yet to be determined time of vacation. Given the newness of Pastors Nikki and Ross to BSBC, Pastor Greg will be available for funerals during times off. This has been the pattern since the beginning of the interim period. Please pray that these months of break will be renewing and invigorating for Pastor Greg.
Your Board of Deacons
9. Summer Office Hours
From Tuesday, May 24, through the Tuesday after Labour Day, the church office will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (instead of the usual 5 p.m.) This change in office hours helps facilitate vacation time for our administrative staff. Thank you for noting this change.
10. Children's Half-Day Summer Camp
This summer, the week of July 4 to 8, from 9 a.m. to Noon, our children will learn that God’s creativity didn’t stop in Genesis. The Master Artist is working to redeem, reclaim, and transform us — His creation — to the design He planned for us. Our children will see the beautiful truth that they are God’s creation as they learn to use their talents to bring glory to Him.
Join our team
We hope you will prayerfully consider being a part of BSBC’s 2022 Children’s Half-Day Summer Camp team! When you complete the volunteer registration, you’ll have the opportunity to tell us where and how you’re available to serve. If you have any questions about what a particular role will look like, we’ll be happy to help explain them so you can make an informed decision about your role before making a commitment.
Children’s Half-Day Summer Camp Theme Bible Verse: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do. – Ephesians 2:10
11. NextGen Ministry at BSBC
We have some great events coming up for our children and youth!
Children’s Events At BSBC
Brunswick Street Baptist Church Half-Day Summer Camp (K to Grade 5)
This summer, the week of July 4 to 8, our children will learn that God’s creativity didn’t stop in Genesis. The Master Artist is working to redeem, reclaim, and transform us–His creation–to the design, He planned for us. Our children will see the beautiful truth that they are God’s creation as they learn to use their talents to bring glory to Him.
If you would like further information please reach out to Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca! We would love for people of all ages to come and serve our children in this wonderful opportunity!
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do. – Ephesians 2:10
"Hands In!" Girls Ministry
This is a new ministry group for elementary girls, held at KidzTown, one Saturday a month. The purpose is for girls to come together and strengthen their relationship with each other and with God. All are welcome to this event!
Who: Girls Kindergarten to Grade 5
What: Hands In! Girl’s Ministry
Where: KidzTown
When: This Saturday, June 4 from 10 a.m. to noon
Why: To learn about God and connect with other girls
Note: Please bring a mask, clothes your children do not mind getting a bit dirty, and sunscreen!
Youth Events This Week at BSBC
Bible Study: Wednesday, June 1 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Tonight from 6:30 to 8 p.m. youth are welcome to come out, as Kari Dunfield leads our youth Bible study!
One Conference: Saturday
This Saturday our youth will be heading to Moncton for our One Conference, please be praying for the youth that are going to this event! There will be NO YOUTH GROUP Friday. Youth who are coming to One Conference should meet at Crosspoint Church at 9 a.m. on Saturday!
High School Youth Group: Sunday from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
We welcome our high schoolers to continue to come out for a time of fellowship, connection, food, and great conversation!
Graduation Recognition Service: June 12
We welcome all of our graduates to come out on Sunday, June 12 during our service for a time of recognition and celebration! Afterwards, the church family will be having a BBQ. If you're interested in volunteering, please reach out to Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca!
12. Upcoming Memorial Service
The Memorial Service for the Late Dr. Robert Burridge will be held on Thursday, June 23, 1 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Reception to follow.
13. Sunday Morning: June 5
“Today God is calling his Church back to worship. This can be seen in high church circles where there is a renewed interest in intimacy with God. It can be seen in low church circles where there is a renewed interest in liturgy. It can be seen everywhere in between these two. It is as if God is saying, ‘I want the hearts of my people back!’ And if we long to go where God is going and do what God is doing, we will move into deeper, more authentic worship.
- Richard Foster
Online or in person, we hope you’ll connect with us this week!
Sermon notes
On this Communion Sunday, Dr. Keith will be sharing his message in both services. “Merit of Mercy” is rooted in the book of Luke, chapter 18. He offers: Not so long ago at TheStreet we explored the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18, as Jesus shares a story about why any disciple ought to pray and not grow weary. Despite dealing with an unjust judge who does not care about human beings and has no fear of God, in that parable the indefatigable widow is tenacious about receiving justice, and is eventually rewarded for her determination.
Immediately afterwards, Jesus continues with another parable designed to show us how to pray, that is, our inner posture as we come before the Lord. It is clearly stated that the parable is directed toward “those who trusted in their own righteous standing and despised others,” and we always like to think that the primary audience are religious legalists and related kinds of people who are really different from us! The problem is: the parable is directed toward the disciples, and illustrates two quite different kinds of attitudes as we pray. On this Communion Sunday we will listen carefully to this parable as we confess our failures and examine our hearts, while preparing to celebrate the Lord’s Table.
Worship leaders
In the gym, Greg Keezer will be leading worship and for those of you online – Deacon Denise Mersereau will be your Facebook Host. In the sanctuary, one of our ensembles will be singing, as well as soloist, Laura McGuire. Please pray that the Spirit of God will bless the preparations being made for this week’s gatherings.
14. Children's Camps at Grace Memorial Church
Grace Memorial Baptist Church 2022 Summer Camps!
Week 1: July 4 to 8 — $100/child
Week 2: VBS — July 18 to 22 — $60/child
Week 3: Preschool Camp — August 2 to 5 — $80/child
Week 4: August 15 to 19 — $100/child
** Please note that weeks 1, 2 & 4 are for children who have completed Kindergarten to Grade 6 and week 3 preschool ages 3 to 5 years old, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with early drop-off and late pick-up as options.
For full information, please contact Emily Colpitts, Emerging Generations Coordinator; kids.youth@gracememorial.ca or call the church office at 458-8527.
15. This Week at BSBC: June 1 to 8
Please note: FLC stands for Family Life Centre.
Wednesday, June 1
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
6:00 Vocal Ensemble (Sanctuary and Choir Room)
6:00 Youth Choir (Barnabas)
6:30 BSBC Choir – Rebuild Rehearsal (Sanctuary)
6:30 Social Action Team Introduction to Street Level Ministry (Third Floor Assembly, FLC)
6:30 Youth Bible Study (Family Room, FLC)
Thursday, June 2
9:00 Benevolent Ministry (By Appointment)
9:30 New Life (3rd Floor Assembly Area, FLC)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
1:30 Ladies Bible Study (Carol Bray) (Family Room, FLC)
7:00 Mandarin Hymn Practice (Choir Room)
7:00 Spring Business Meeting (In-Person/Zoom)
Friday, June 3
10:00 Senior Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
7:00 Mandarin Fellowship (Barnabas Center and KidzTown)
Saturday, June 4
9:00 Gym Set-Up (Gym)
9:00 Meet at Crosspoint Church for Travel to Youth One Con (Moncton)
1:00 Worship Team Practice (Gym)
Sunday, June 5
6:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom Over Main Kitchen)
9:00 Asian Sunday School Class (Boardroom Over Main Kitchen)
10:15 Preschool/KidzTown (1st Floor/Kidztown, FLC)
10:30 Contemporary Worship Service (Gym)
10:30 Mandarin Worship Service (Third Floor Assembly, FLC)
10:30 Traditional Worship Service (Sanctuary)
7:00 High School Youth Group (Third Floor Assembly Area, FLC)
Monday, June 6
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
1:30 Right to Life (3rd Floor Boardroom, FLC)
6:30 Social Action Team Meeting (Zoom)
7:00 Gym Planning Meeting (Third Floor Assembly Area, FLC))
Tuesday, June 7
12:00 Mandarin Prayer Meeting (Boardroom Over Main Kitchen)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
1:30 Quilters for Missions (Quilting Room)
7:00 Fresh Start (Gym/Third Floor Assembly, FLC)
7:00 “Walking With Jesus” Bible Study with Daniel Savard (Zoom)
Wednesday, June 8
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
6:00 Vocal Ensemble (Sanctuary and Choir Room)
6:00 Youth Choir (Barnabas)
6:30 BSBC Choir – Rebuild Rehearsal (Sanctuary)
6:30 Youth Bible Study (Final) (Family Room, FLC)
