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Seeking to minister in new ways in challenging days!
“Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ.” 2 Corinthians 2:14
We All Live in a Yellow…Province
“So, what do we do now?”
On Friday, May 22, our Premier made the long awaited announcement – New Brunswick had reached the Yellow Phase of recovery. As many of you know, this stage allows for gatherings of 50 or less while maintaining the 6 foot/2 metre “social distancing” that is now the norm. When I heard this I found myself reflecting on how with freedom comes responsibility. While it might be tempting to try to immediately ‘ramp things back up,’ serious consideration for health and safety remain at the forefront.
Anticipating such freedom, our denominational office in Moncton has offered insights for Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada to consider as principals for engaging in the Yellow Phase:
Slower is Better – Hurry is Risk. They counsel that we stay behind the government and business reopening to see what we can learn from their efforts for application in our context;
Commit to a Deep Sense of Safety. They advise that we create well defined and detailed protocols for every aspect of life together – similar to those we now have in place for our church office and that businesses have developed to protect clients and staff alike;
Remember that Senior Adults Are Vulnerable. Given their unique sensitivity to the virus we need to ensure that we are operating at maximum safety before encouraging the return of this vulnerable population;
Staying Safe Doesn’t Mean Staying Away. We should not be afraid to engage in such planning and make efforts to be ready to engage slowly when the time is right;
Be Comfortable With Going Forward and Back As This Will Be the Norm. Even though the virus descended upon us with little notice – it will not be leaving the same way. Our plans need to be flexible and adaptable – anticipating adjustments forward and back for the foreseeable future.
Over this past week, your Pastors and Deacons have been engaged in serious consideration of the freedoms now available to us and how to responsibly embrace them. Based on the principals above, we don’t anticipate changes to our current model in the short term. However, we are actively engaged in planning for a slow engagement when we discern that it can be done safely and we can slowly engage on the church campus — corner of York and Brunswick Streets.
Until then, remember that the Church is NOT closed. As that little Sunday School jingle taught many of us years ago: I am the Church. You are the Church. We are the Church together. All who follow Jesus all around the world, yes, we’re the Church together. Our online witness presents possibilities for connecting with new people and each one of us, missionaries in our own right, can seek to be ‘salt’ and ‘light’ wherever we find ourselves.
Please pray for your leaders to have wisdom and discernment as we seek to lead God’s people in new ways.
Pastor Greg
Visit our homepage on Friday, May 29, for a video update from Pastor Greg about BSBC's life in the Yellow Phase of recovery in the province of New Brunswick.
Worship | Gathering Online: Sunday, May 31
This Sunday, May 31, we look forward to a team comprised of Sarah Hoyt, Greg Keezer, Mark McAllister and Andrew Culberson leading in the contemporary service leadership. Traditional worship will be led by Pascale Beaulieu and Gloria Tranquilla. Tina Franca will lead the children’s time and Pastor Greg will lead in prayer. The final instalment of our ‘COVID-19 Front Line’ series will feature Melissa Ferris who has been working through these weeks at the north side Atlantic Superstore.
This final Sunday (until fall) of the “ACTS: 30 Years That Changed the World” sermon series takes us to the end of chapter 15, line 36 to chapter 16:10 in a sermon entitled The Detour. Dr. Keith writes: Responding to the vision of a cry for help, Paul and his companions move into unfamiliar territory to share the good news.
At the end of this week’s video services we’ll be celebrating the accomplishments of our post-secondary grads – so be sure to stay tuned to the very end. 🎉👏
Prayer for Comfort
On Tuesday, May 26, our church family received word of the passing of Jean Young. Jean came to BSBC in the 1940's with
her sister, the Late Betty Bartlett, which makes her an aunt to our own Doug Bartlett. Many years ago she and her late husband, Norman, loved to be part of the Saturday night badminton group and their children were involved in ministries when they were young. Jean was in her 99th year and has been unable to come to worship for many years. Please pray for her children: Jon of Fredericton, Donna of Toronto and Bettie of Calgary. Arrangements are in care of McAdam's Funeral Home.
Library News
Let me invite you, this Thursday, May 28, to join Shirley Graves and me in the church library from 10 a.m. until noon so that you can return books or library materials that you’ve had out or to borrow new materials. Otherwise, library books may be returned to the church office when its open during the week (8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.). There is also a drop off box next to the library for returning books. Thanks for making use of your library and for being faithful to returning your materials so others can enjoy them. Sharon Gosselin, Librarian
New Missionary Couple: Reuben Myles and Leah Morrison - Soon to be Mr. & Mrs. Myles
Hey there, Brunswick St. Baptist family,
As you may already know, my fiancé Leah and I will be heading to the Philippines this summer (after our wedding) to serve as High School and Middle School Chaplain (Reuben) and Ministry Coordinator (Leah). Our goal/vision is to equip and empower the next generation of Christ-followers in God’s commandment of the great commission over all our lives. Regardless of what their calling is, we want to be a liaison that helps them discern their future and hear the voice of God clearly. We intend on doing so through intentional spiritual formation of middle school and high school students in direct connection with our unique cultural spread.
By providing opportunities for spiritual gifts and passions to arise through mentorship, preaching, hands on ministry, and forming deep community relationships.
We’re inviting you to give your time toward expanding the kingdom of God in South-East Asia: you don’t even have to get off the couch! Prayer is at the core of our ministry and our faith. We strongly believe God will provide everything we need through faithfulness in prayer. We also believe that partnership is an opportunity to enable individual gifts God has given people, and that it is an active part of ministry. We want to see you grow alongside us!
For us to abide in God’s calling on our lives and His vision for the next generation at Faith Academy, we need to know we are strongly supported. Would you commit to praying for us either once a week or once a month? If not, would you be willing to connect us with someone who has a similar vision for the nations as we do? Please prayerfully consider partnering with us before committing to do so. If God has laid a donation or a pledge on your heart, the decision to pray for us, or someone else who can help us in this journey, please reply to this message!
Many thanks and blessings,
Reuben and Leah (almost) Myles
Meet Leah and Reuben and hear about their exciting calling:
To support Leah and Reuben in prayer or for information on providing a one time or ongoing gift of financial support please email Leah at leah.morrison@faith.edu.ph.
Green Hill Lake Camp is ON!
Great news from our camp – they are gearing up for an unusual summer of ministry but remaining faithful to their call to make Jesus known to the children and youth who will come. AND, we have the blessing of five of our youth serving on this year’s summer staff. So that you can pray for them and possibility support them let us introduce you to these four stellar young people and provide you with the information you need to support them in their ministry.
Olivia Dunn
Hello Everyone!! My name is Olivia Dunn and this is my second summer working at Green Hill. Before I became staff, I attended Green Hill Lake Camp for many years as a camper and camp has always been a big part of my life and I can’t wait to work there again this summer!!
Nathan Holmes
I’m Nathan Holmes, I used to go to Green Hill as a camper for several years and this summer will be my first summer serving as a Leader In Training.
Dylan Wightman
Hi, my name is Dylan Wightman, I’ve volunteered at camp for 2 years and this will be my first year working. I’ve been going to the camp since I was very young, that’s where I first decided to give my life to Christ.
Hannah Hatchard
Hello everyone, my name is Hannah Hatchard! This will be my third summer at camp, second year as a staff member. Green Hill Lake Camp holds a very special place in my heart, I went there as a camper for years and jumped at the chance to be a part of their staff team. Camp has had such a huge impact on my life, and I can’t wait to spread God’s love this summer!!
Derek Clement
Hello, my name is Derek Clement. I'll be working as a Lifeguard this summer. I'm excited for another year at camp, and even in these uncertain times, I'm sure it will be a good one.
Share-A-Wage
Green Hill Lake Camp operates its summer program with staff of 60 people. Many of the staff are university or high school students who volunteer their time. They sacrifice regular summer jobs and come as summer “Missionaries” to present Christ to children and youth.
However, due to the rising cost of education it has become increasingly difficult to find young people who are mature in their Christian faith and able to give up their summer to fill these vital positions. Many Christian students are available, but their participation is prevented by the reality of September school bills. If Green Hill Lake Camp were to pay them a full wage the camper fees would have to be increased by nearly 40%. This would exclude many from a Christian camping experience.
The Board of Directors of Green Hill Lake Camp Inc. believe God is working through our camping ministry and would like you to consider partnering with us to provide these summer “Missionaries” with a degree of financial compensation.
We are asking you to join in this ministry and SHARE-A-WAGE to supply staff for our summer camps. A day’s wage for a cabin leader is approximately $90. Staff volunteer up to 55 days during the summer and appreciate your generosity in making it possible for them for them to serve Green Hill Lake Camp and return to school in the fall.
How to Contribute
Ways of contribution include:
Cheque mailed to 40 Greenhill Lake Rd, Greenhill Lake, NB, E6E 1E7
VISA or Mastercard donations at www.greenhillgifts.com or by calling their office at (506) 463-0017
If you feel uncomfortable donating financially, we are also asking for your prayerful support, which is equally, if not more, important.
Important Tax Deduction & Financial Information:
(1) In order to receive a receipt for income tax purposes, you must make your cheque payable to “Green Hill Lake Camp.” Green Hill Lake Camp is a charitable organization registered with the Canadian Government. All contributions to Green Hill Lake Camp are tax deductible. Financial disbursement of donated funds is at the discretion of the Green Hill Lake Camp Inc. Board of Directors for missions work and evangelism.
(2) Do NOT place the missionary’s name anywhere on the cheque. The Canada Revenue Agency stipulates that in order to receive tax deduction for a contribution the donor must release control of how the money will be used. Money cannot be designated to a person; however, you may place the donation in the name of the missionary.
Tidings Magazine
Tidings Magazine, the UBWMU/Atlantic Baptist Women’s magazine, is published ten times per year in full colour. It is a great resource for those interested in local and global mission. Each issue contains information regarding the ministries and projects supported by Atlantic Baptist Women and Canadian Baptist Ministries, as well as many general articles. Each issue also has a mission-related children’s story and activities ... enough for an entire program. The annual subscription rate in Canada is $15, tax included. Paid subscribers to the print edition of Tidings Magazine qualify to read the current issue online. The password to access the online issue is printed in Tidings Magazine twice yearly (June and December issues) or is given to new subscribers once payment is received.
Carol Bray writes: Interesting, informative, inspirational, Tidings, the colourful mission magazine is mailed to you 10 times per year. Arrange for your subscription by writing Sharon Elliott, 356 Lower Mountain Road, Boundary Creek, NB, E1G 4C2. Cheques made payable to Tidings Magazine. Email: tidingsbusm@gmail.com. For more information and details about e-transfer please visit: www.atlanticbaptistwomen.ca/tidings.
High School Graduate Recognition
On Sunday, June 14 we will be celebrating our high school grads, BUT you can send us their details right now. We need (1) their name, (2) high school, (3) fall plans, and (4) photo. Thank you for allowing us to celebrate this milestone in their lives. Thank you!
Your Education Committee
Congratulations to our Post-Secondary Grads! 🎉
Jessica Bicknell - Bachelor of Education, Saint Thomas University
David Doran - Bachelor Computer Science, University of New Brunswick
James Duguid - Bachelor of Nursing, Memorial University of Newfoundland
Rachel Kierstead - Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, University of New Brunswick
Alice Land - Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, University of New Brunswick
Hannah LeBouthillier - Bachelor Computer Science, University of New Brunswick
Jillian Trail - Juris Doctor, University of New Brunswick
Jenny Wilson - Civil Engineering Technology, New Brunswick Community College
Zoom Bible Study with Pastor Steve
Pastor Steve will continue his weekly Wednesday Zoom Bible Study on June 3 at 6:30 p.m. Together, you will go through the entire book of Philippians over the course of 6 weeks. All you need to join is a Bible! Please send Pastor Steve an email if you wish to join this study and he’ll be sure to send you a Zoom invite!
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ”
Ministry Position: Youth & Young Adult Coordinator
Your Board of Deacons seeks applications for the position of Youth and Young Adult Coordinator at BSBC, ideally starting mid-June, 2020.
Responsibilities
This position includes responsibility for ongoing connection with our youth and youth adults, largely online during the COVID crisis. This would include maintaining weekly online connections through the summer and into the fall. The vision for this position is 20 hours per week.
How to apply
Applications for the position will be accepted until Friday, June 5 at 5 p.m. either in person at the church office or by email to receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca. An application consists of (1) a cover letter with a brief testimony of personal Christian faith, why you feel you are an excellent candidate for the position and practical experience you would bring to the position and (2) your resume including three references, one of which may be from the BSBC church family. Interviews for successful candidates will be held the week of June 8.
A full position outline, outlining duties ideally covered in "normal" times can be obtained by emailing receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca or by calling the church office at 458-8348. Specific questions can be sent to Pastor Greg at greg@bsbc.nb.ca.
The congregation is encouraged to pray for this process as it unfolds and for God's provision of a new leader for this important ministry.
BSBC Kidz Klub
Today, we’ve posted the newest edition of our BSBC KIDZ KLUB and it will be up all week to be enjoyed by children of all ages! We’re studying The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and this week we focus on the fifth fruit – KINDNESS.
Community News
We’ve been made aware of some furniture needs for a small family relocating to their own home. If you have any of the following items in good condition, please contact the church office (458-8348 OR receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca). We can arrange transportation. Thank you for your consideration.
Bedroom: Dresser, end tables, lamps, little girl’s room dresser
Living room: Couch, chair, end tables and lamps
Kitchen: Utensils, dishes, etc.
YOUR INTERIM LEADERSHIP TEAM
Dr. Keith Bodner, Preaching Pastor
Pastor Greg Geldart, Lead Pastor
Pastor Jim McLellan, Pastor of Senior’s Visitation
Pastor Steve Patterson, Outreach Pastor
Jon Wilton, Youth & Young Adult Ministries
