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Growing Faith, Friends & Families to Serve
In this issue:
My Sincere Thanks
Greetings from Our New Community Connections Pastor
Meet Nine New Members of BSBC
Myles on a Mission
Celebrating Our 2021 Grads
Summer Pastoral Support
Sympathy
Wedding Bells
This Sunday’s Services
Summer Fridays in July/August – Change in Office Hours
Summer VBS/KidzTown @ BSBC
Summer Youth Ministry @ BSBC
Seeking Youth Leaders for Summer Ministry
Wednesday Library Openings
This Week @ BSBC
1. A Message from Pastor Greg: My Sincere Thanks
Dear BSBC Family,
I’m writing to express my sincere thanks for your thoughtful and prayerful engagement in our journey from Sunday, June 20 to Sunday, June 27.
Celebrating & thanking Pastor Charles & Pastor Steve
In this time span, we celebrated and said thank you to Pastor Charles for his months of faithful ministry and celebrated and thanked Pastor Steve for 10 years of faithful and loving ministry in various roles that both enriched and expanded our reach. Church family, thank you for coming out and giving financially to show your love and gratitude.
It's hard for me to believe that today, June 30, is Pastor Steve’s final day with us. Yet, our relationship with each of these godly men does not end at the close of this month. We can continue to be their ministry partners as we pray for the next chapters God has for them. In an immediate sense, that includes Pastor Charles and family’s summer ministry in British Columbia. And, praying for Pastor Steve and family, as he waits with expectancy of what God has for him in his next iteration of ministry. He has indicated that he hopes for a period of summer rest before a new engagement — but all things in God’s time.
What we know for sure is that we give thanks for these “good and faithful servants” and seek God’s peace, grace and anointing in their next chapters.
Community Connections Pastor
In between the Sundays, you engaged in the important work presented at the Wednesday Spring Business Meeting — primarily the consideration of Ross Watters for the position of Community Connections Pastor. My thanks to the tech team who made the herculean effort to overcome obstacles beyond the understanding of many of us to make sure members could engage on Zoom and that we all could engage with Pastor Ross.
For me, that evening, there was a decided moving of the Spirit of God in our midst. The result was 117 votes all cast in favour of the call being extended and of providing a $20,000 transition allowance. This was the crowning blessing of what has been a journey of blessing that brought us together for this purpose.
On Thursday afternoon, as we waited for voting to conclude for Zoom participants, I was optimistic that the result would be positive – but a unanimous result shows an incredible unified vision for the future of BSBC. And, that afternoon, what a joy for Deacon Sally Crawford, chair of the Search Committee, and myself, to ZOOM with Pastor Ross and Fi and see the looks on their faces as the result was shared and hear them affirm that they are ready to come to Canada and join us in gospel witness.
Thank you
So, my beloved church family, thank you for sharing these eight momentous days in the life of this fellowship. A wise man once said that people don’t fear change they fear loss. I believe we can affirm that in the midst of our significant losses, we have not been forgotten, a new chapter is beginning and “the future is as bright as the promises of God.”
Giving Him the Glory,
Pastor Greg
2. Greetings From Our New Community Connections Pastor
Dear BSBC Family,
Last week, after no having slept due to excitement, Fi and I found ourselves trying to fill Thursday with any task possible to make the time go by a bit quicker until we were to have the Zoom call at 7:30 p.m. “Haggis Time” — as it has become affectionately referred to.
We were full of expectant anticipation for what lay ahead. The promise of Romans 8:28 has been a real source of comfort and guidance throughout the last number of years for us as a family and we had been holding onto these words throughout the application process. 'And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.' Believing that a call to minister at BSBC was the next step that God had for us as a family in ministry.
Throughout the interview and discernment process we found ourselves making many friends on the Search Committee and the Deacons as well as growing a deep love for Pastor Greg and Margaret. So much so that the Holy Spirit had already been transferring our hearts to be with you all. So, when the time for the call arrived and we found out the result of the vote we were absolutely delighted and so excited to accept the call!
We cannot wait to come and be with the BSBC family, start developing relationships both within the congregation and the community of Fredericton and see what the Holy Spirit has for us and our new church family in these coming years.
Thank you so much for all your positivity, care, encouragement and love so far. We are so looking forward to taking these next steps with you in person soon.
Love and blessings,
Pastor Ross, Fi, Eden, Ariel and Zion
Please note: On Monday, June 28, Pastor Ross met with leadership at Gorebridge Church of Scotland and shared news of his resignation. As with the BSBC constitution, he is required to give three months notice. However, the leadership, knowing that this might be coming, agreed that he could be released from ministry when preparations were complete for their move to Canada.
Pastor Ross and Fi have indicated that, pending the immigration process, they could be here at the end of August or start of September. That is the goal currently identified. We'll keep you posted as things develop. Please pray blessing on the Gorebridge church family as they grieve the loss of a beloved coworker in gospel ministry and for God’s provision, in His time, of a new leader for them.
3. Meet 9 New Members of the BSBC Family
On Sunday, June 27, we presented a video introduction to nine new members of the BSBC family. Deacon chairman, Ron McMullin and I enjoyed the privilege of connecting with these folks to extend the new and improved “elbow of fellowship” brought about by the pandemic — replacing the usual “right hand of fellowship.” We provided them with their membership certificate and Ron prayed over each one.
Isn’t it exciting that in the age of Covid we have the privilege of welcoming new members to our church family! Enjoy the biographies that follow and, if you have not yet moved to become a member of the church family, consider doing it now. Contact me or the church office and I’ll be happy to explain what membership means with no pressure to proceed until you sense God leading you in that direction.
Please pray for these brothers and sisters,
Pastor Greg
4. Myles on a Mission
Exciting times for Reuben and Leah Myles who, this week, are ‘leaving on a jet plane’ to land in the Philippines and begin on the ground missionary service at Faith Academy! Please pray for them as they travel, settle and serve for the glory of Jesus!
5. Celebrating Our 2020 Graduates
Click the link below to meet our 2020 graduates! Thanks to Pastor Charles for preparing this presentation.
6. Summer Support for Pastoral Ministries
Your Board of Deacons are grateful to two members of our church family who will be providing support to Pastor Greg over these summer months.
Rev. Kevin Culberson
This summer, when Pastor Greg takes vacation away from Fredericton, Kevin will be on call to provide pastoral care in his absence. In an emergency, you can contact the church office during regular office hours, or, after hours, call the office to listen to the recorded message that will give you contact information for the Deacon on Call who will take your information and contact Kevin.
Kevin’s story is marked by life experiences and education that has led him to pastoral/teaching ministry (30 years in NB & PEI with CBAC churches) counselling both privately and at NBCC throughout the past 11 years in Fredericton region. He currently serves as part-time Baptist Hospital Chaplain for York & Queens-Sunbury Baptist Associations at DECH/OPH. Meeting and working with people of all ages in all walks of life as God’s servant to bring healing and hope, has been a major theme throughout his life and ministry. He is married to Ruth Webber and they have three living children (Andrew Culberson and Katy, Sarah Hoyt and Nathan, Rebekah Logan and Anthony) and seven grandchildren. Kevin and Ruth have attended BSBC since 2010 and have lived in Fredericton for 25 years. Thank you, Kevin, for providing this support to Pastor Greg and your BSBC family.
Doug McAllister
We are pleased to announce that as of July 2, Doug McAllister, a member of our church family, will be taking over our church’s Benevolent Ministry. Twice a week, Doug will make himself available to meet with those who are seeking assistance from BSBC for practical support for groceries, medications, rent, etc. As in the past, these appointments are booked through the church office and Doug will work with our administrative staff and Benevolent Committee to prayerfully consider each need and respond.
For many years, Doug held leadership positions at Smythe Street Church and, following his marriage to Heather Topple-McAllister, became a member of our church family. Doug has lots of experience working with Fredericton’s vulnerable population and so we are blessed to have his leadership in this role.
7. Sympathy
Charlie Ritchie and family are grateful for the prayers of God’s people in these days of loss of his beloved wife, Betty. Betty was released from the grip of ALS and welcomed into the love of her Saviour early Monday, June 21. Born in Halifax, NS she was the daughter of Jeanette (Collins) Bowers and the late Joseph Bowers.
A powerful celebration of Betty’s life and faith was held at BSBC on Thursday, June 24. Each of her children contributed their tributes to their mom and her loving care and support. The service was viewed by people around the world, a tribute to the years Charlie and Betty have invested in loving Jesus and loving people wherever God planted them.
Please continue to pray for Charlie, Betty’s mom, Jeanette and children: Jonathan Ritchie (Elizabeth Nguyen) of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, Joshua Ritchie (Kaitlyn) of Charlottetown, PE; Emily Ritchie of Fredericton, NB; her five grandchildren, Eliana, Asher, Adelaide, Abigail, Esme; one sister, Angela Rudolph of Halifax, NS; one brother, Randolph Bowers of Australia.
The seeds of love and grace which Betty faithfully planted in the lives of those she met are sure to bear Kingdom fruit for years to come.
8. Wedding Bells
We celebrate with Bruce and Catherine Webb, who on Thursday, July 1, will witness the marriage of their daughter, Sarah to Joey Landine. Please pray for God’s richest blessing on these two young people who love and seek to serve him.
Pastor Steve Patterson will be officiating the ceremony which is planned for outdoors (so, a prayerful consideration of the weather will be welcome!).
9. This Sunday's Sermon Café (Gym) & Blended Worship Service (Sanctuary)
Here we are, officially in Summer 2020! This Sunday at BSBC you have two choices for engagement with God’s word.
Sermon Café
In the gym, we are launching our “Sermon Café” Sundays. If you register for this service, you’ll be welcomed by our hosts and directed to your table and offered hot or cold beverages and baked goods. You and your guest(s) will have opportunity to enjoy the background worship music as you enjoy each other’s company and consider the sermon prep question handout.
Then, when the sermon is on in the sanctuary, you’ll be invited to watch it in the gym followed by additional refreshments and conversation with your guest(s). Sundays in the gym will be relaxed, personal and allow you to engage with God’s word and each other. Please note: Communion will not be served in the gym.
Blended Worship
In the sanctuary, you’re invited to a ‘combined’ service that will be unlike a “usual” traditional or contemporary service. We’ll be engaging in elements familiar to both services as we seek to offer ourselves to God through various acts of worship, engage with Dr. Keith in the study of God’s word and gather around the table of the Lord. This Sunday, we’re grateful to Jon and Alyse Wilton, Gloria Tranquilla and David Steeves who will lead the musical elements.
Sermon: Warning Label (John 2)
Hazardous products often carry a warning label, clearly outlining the potential dangers to the alert and safety-conscious consumer. The Bible itself perhaps should carry a warning label, as it unfolds a long story that poses great risks for our self-centered worldliness and carries significant threats to any of our firmly rooted complacency and lukewarmness.
On this first Communion Sunday of the summer, we will revisit the Gospel of John and crash the wedding of Cana in Galilee. At this party we are invited to consider how—like the old wine at this gathering—anything insubstantial that we ultimately rely on for joy or happiness will eventually run out. But we will also discover the kind of lasting blessing that Jesus brings for each of us, and how he makes all things new. And so, there is a warning label as we approach the Table today: no matter how much or little time you’ve spent in church, you will discover aspects of the Lord Jesus and his work that will open new doors in your relationship with our risen Savior.
We look forward to new iterations of worship for the summer of 2020! Please be sure to make your reservation by clicking the link below.
10. Summer Friday's
Summer brings an opportunity for adjusted schedules and that includes our church office. Please note that on Friday afternoons for July and August, our office will be closing at 3 p.m. Thank you for noting this change in the routine.
Your Board of Management
11. Summer Children's Ministry
Sunday KIDZTOWN For Kindergarten to Grade 5
As we move into July and August, parents are invited to consider having your K to Grade 5 children engage in our weekly KidzTown. From 10:15 a.m. through to the end of the morning worship services, our teaching team are able to welcome up to 15 children to engage in worship, learning and fellowship with specific COVID-19 protocols in place.
Click the link below to access the detailed COVID-19 plan for everyone’s safety. Reservations are required and can be made when you register for worship services by using the KidzTown box to register your child(ren).
Vacation Bible School
We, here at Brunswick Baptist Church, are so excited to let you know about our Vacation Bible School program for this year: Treasured: Discovering You Are Priceless to God!
Treasured is a wonderful program that will teach points of the bible through fun adventures. We'll have Sing and Play, Bible Adventures, KidVid Cinema and Imagination Station, where the children will create and make something new every week! We are planning five weeks of in person fun, games, snacks, great music and new adventures.
Please, register your children and bring them every week to join the fun at our Island of Treasures! The same COVID-19 protocols used in KidzTown will be applied to VBS.
VBS is offered on different days for different age groups:
K to Grade 2: Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon
Grade 3 to 5: Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon
VBS will be offered the following weeks, attend any session or all sessions:
Session One: Wednesday, July 7 (K-Gr. 2)/Thursday, July 8 (Gr. 3-5)
Session Two: Wednesday, July 21 (K-Gr. 2)/Thursday, July 22 (Gr. 3-5)
Session Three: Wednesday, Aug. 4 (K-Gr. 2)/Thursday, Aug. 5 (Gr. 3-5)
Session Four: Wednesday, Aug. 18 (K-Gr. 2)/Thursday, Aug. 19 (Gr. 3-5)
Session Five: Wednesday, Sept. 1 (K-Gr. 2)/Thursday, Sept. 2 (Gr. 3-5)
12. Summer Youth Ministry
We’re looking forward to a great summer for Middle School (welcoming those going into Grade 6 in September) through to High School and for Young Adults.
Tuesday Night Youth Group (7 to 9 p.m. | Weekly in July & August
We’re grateful to Emily Perrin-Colpitts and Isaac Colpitts for accepting our invitation to work this summer in youth ministry. Emily has great ideas and is planning something for everyone. We hope new Middle Schoolers (those going into grade 6 in September) will join in the fun and everyone should feel free to come with a friend!
Wednesday Night Bible Study (6:30 to 8 p.m. | Weekly in July and August)
We’re also grateful to Alyse Wilton and her trusty sidekick, husband Jon, who will be leading the summer study of the Scriptures. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to continue to grow spiritually through the summer.
Sundays Summer Fresh Start (Bi-Weekly in July and August | Following Worship Services)
Dr. Keith and Pastor Greg will be hosting bi-weekly gatherings for young adults. They invite you to join them for lunch, a study/discussion and prayer time with group fellowship to follow.
Sundays July 4 & 18
Sundays August 1, 15 & 29
13. Seeking Summer Youth Leaders
Hey church!
I am reaching to ask for volunteers for the summer Youth Group.
Whether you’re a senior in high school, a senior citizen or somewhere in between, you could give your time to the youth group. Though before you can say yes, I should explain what we would need from you.
Youth group is meeting each Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m. throughout the summer. You would be responsible for showing up 15-30 mins early and/or stay 15-30 mins afterwards for setup and takedown of games and activities. As a youth leader your role would be to spend some time with the youth, engaging in faith filled conversations as well as if physically capable, helping join/run games.
Something I believe in very deeply is allowing the youth to see people living their life for Christ at all different stages. The students benefit when they get to see people of all different ages, all different relationship statuses and all different cultures pursuing a life of faith. Youth leaders are often who the kids relate themselves to, we build strong connections of trust with them, giving them a safe space to figure out who they are and to ask questions about life and religion.
So, whether you have more energy than you know what to do with, or find yourself more on the introverted side, there is a place for you in this ministry.
Please email me at youth.bsbc.nb@gmail.com for more information, and how to connect.
Thank you,
Emily Perrin-Colpitts
14. Wednesday Library Openings
Your librarians invite you to visit the library the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 10 a.m. until noon. Come and engage with our huge collection of books – there’s something for everyone!
NEXT OPENING: Wednesday, July 14
15. This Week at BSBC: June 30 to July 7
Wednesday, June 30
6:00 Vocal Ensemble (Sanctuary)
Thursday, July 1
Canada Day – Church Offices Closed
Friday, July 2
No Scheduled Events
3:00 Church Office Closes
Saturday, July 3
No Scheduled Events
Sunday, July 4
10:15 KidzTown (2nd Floor, Family Life Centre)
10:30 Blended Service (Sanctuary/Youtube)
10:30 Sermon Café (Gym)
12:00 Fresh Start Lunch (3rd Floor Assembly)
2:00 Chinese Worship Service (Sanctuary)
Monday, July 5
6:30 Social Action Team (Zoom)
7:00 Chinese Bible Study (3rd Floor Assembly)
Tuesday, July 6
1:30 Quilters for Missions (Quilting Room, 2nd Floor)
7:00 Youth Groups (3rd Floor Assembly)
Wednesday, July 7
9:00 VBS (K-Gr 2) (Kidztown)
6:00 Vocal Ensemble (Sanctuary)
6:30 Youth Bible Study (3rd Floor Assembly/Zoom)
