The Banner
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
In This Issue:
1 – New Protocol for In-Person Worship Service Seating
2 – Betty & Charlie Ritchie Update/Needs
3 – “Harvest for Hunger” Food Drive
4 – Laundry Detergent Needed
5 – A New Prayer Time in the Sanctuary
6 – Children & Youth Ministry
7 – October’s Adult Opportunities
8 – Fall Business Meeting – Wednesday, October 21
9 – Anxiety Study Continues Tonight
10 – Online Service for Sunday, September 27
11 – Our In-Person Service This Coming Sunday, October 4
12 – “Facility Assistant” Position Available
13 – Library Opening After Services on Sunday Mornings
14 – An Invitation from the Anglican Diocese of Fredericton
15 – October Birthdays
1. In-Person Seating for Worship Services
As we continue to offer “in-person services” I want to thank those of you who have attended for your cooperation with our COVID-19 protocols and patience with those who greet you — as we find best practices for welcoming, seating and worshiping together. You’ve been great!
Reducing distance between bubbles with masks
Last Sunday, Sept. 27, following the sanctuary service, I discussed with the gathered worshippers the possibility of BSBC embracing the permission granted by the provincial government (Aug. 17) for people in “theatre seating” (like worship services) to reduce the distance between “bubbles” (1-4 people) to 1 metre (instead of 2 meters) IF those worshippers wear their masks through the whole service.
There was an impressive affirmation by those present to do just that. This would allow for more people to join us for services. SO, on Sunday, Oct. 11, in the sanctuary, we will have sections designated for 1 m distanced seating with those sitting there committed to wearing masks throughout the service. There will also be some seating maintained for those who need to remove their masks. This coming Sunday morning, Pastor Steve will be discussing this with worshippers in the gym.
We’re all in this together
And, we can’t thank you enough for making a reservation to attend either service as this helps us anticipate the need for seating “bubbles” (1 or more persons). We are now prepared to receive reservations up to 9 a.m. on Sundays. You can register online, call the church office (458-8348) or email the church office (receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca). We want to make this as easy as possible because, we’re all in this together!
Pastor Greg
2. Charlie & Betty Ritchie Update/Needs
Our dear “Partners in Mission,” Charlie and Betty Ritchie, thank the church family for your prayer, support and encouragement. Betty’s condition, a confirmed Neuron Disease, likely ALS, continues to develop and provide additional physical challenges for Betty. Yet, in the midst of this, their recent newsletter celebrates a number of recent miracles.
Points of celebration
Their daughter, Emily, is safely in Canada, having given up a very engaging life as a nurse in Australia to come home to take care of her mom
25 people helped with their move into their new apartment
A housewarming party blessed them with things they need for daily life
Everyone from their ministry in Vietnam wants to meet with them weekly online/allowing for continued ministry on both sides of the ocean
She is able to have good outside walks with help
A Day Planned for Healing Prayer
The Ritchies invite us to engage in “A Day Planned for Healing Prayer” – a day for everyone world-wide to pray for Betty’s healing. It will be on Monday, October 5. They invite us to also use that day to pray for other loved ones who are ill. “Pray in groups, pairs or even fast and pray!”
How you can support the Ritchies
In addition to praying there are two other ways to help. The first is with meals. Charlie and Betty have been blessed by receiving meals and it is a real help in these days. However, they ask that meals be smaller – their appetites are small and so, planning to feed three (with Emily) for one meal will likely, in itself, provide leftovers for a second. I am looking for members of our church family would take one day a month to prepare a meal for the Ritchies. It would be great if we could set this up and then let it run – so they will know when meals will come and can then, plan for offers outside our church family. Could you take one day a month? Contact the church office, leave your information, and we’ll be in touch with you. I’d like to hear from volunteers by Monday, October 5.
The second is the need for a wheelchair for Betty. There are some special considerations. It can’t be a chair that folds up. It has to be a stable wheelchair. If you think you might have something that would work, perhaps you could take a photo of it and email it to the church office (receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca). Or contact the church office and we’ll follow up with you.
These are days of opportunity for ministry to these faithful servants of our Lord.
Pastor Greg
3. Harvest for Hunger
Community needs have not disappeared during the pandemic. Many agencies have reported increased requests for help, especially with food. So, we are inviting you to take part in our annual “Harvest for Hunger” which sees you bringing non-perishable food items to the church between Sunday, Sept. 27 and Sunday, Oct. 11.
These gifts will be divided, as has been our practice, with the Greener Village Food Bank and for use in our New Life Ministry, stocking our Food Pantry for use each week.
How to drop off donations
PLEASE feel free to drop your donations off at the church office any time, Monday to Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. If you bring donations on Sundays, there will be receptacles at the entrances for your convenience.
Suggestions of Helpful Items
Pasta Sauce, Pasta Noodles, 1L Juice, Cereal, Canned Soup, Canned Vegetables, Macaroni and Cheese, Canned Meat, Peanut Butter, Brown Beans/Kidney Beans, School Snacks, Juice Boxes, Dish Soap…
4. Laundry Soap Drive
Here’s another way you can be a blessing: our friends and neighbours at the John Howard Shelter on Brunswick Street are in need of laundry detergent. With Covid-19, they have increased request to wash cloths for those who stay with them and they have a need for laundry detergent that they can’t meet.
How you can help
If you would like to buy any kind of laundry detergent and drop it off at the church (same as donations for Harvest for Hunger) you would be a blessing to that Shelter’s hosts and guests. Thank you!
5. New Prayer Time in the Sanctuary
Dear Church Family – I plan on being present in the sanctuary on Wednesdays, from noon to 1 p.m. to host and lead a casual and organic hour of intercession with whoever comes: connecting vertically and horizontally both safely and intentionally!
We can't help but grow from such times!
No reservations needed!
Join for the whole time or for the part you can be present.
Pastor Charles
6. Children & Youth Ministry
Bible Fall Fun Club
Online Weekly Group for Kids. Register here so we can deliver your child’s craft kit to your home. A new episode goes up each Wednesday!
Youth Bible Study & Youth Group
Youth Bible Study – “Mark My Words” – Middle and High School youth are invited to join Pastor Charles each Wednesday at 6:30 pm (Zoom or In-Person) for a study in the book of Mark. Register here:
Youth Group – Each Friday night from 7-9 pm, our Middle and High School youth gather for fun and wise words! Come every week or any week with you mask (but we have one if you need it!) and your water bottle. Please pre-register (so we can make sure we’re ready for you).
7. Adult’s Getting Together to Learn & Share
Considering how you will engage in spiritual enrichment this fall? We invite you to consider these offerings:
Bible Study in the Gospel of John
Hello Church—As we enter the fall months I’ll be offering a study in the Gospel of John. This book was instrumental in getting my attention when I was living without the saving knowledge of Christ, and the preaching from this book woke me from my spiritual sleep some twenty years ago! Please join me on this journey on Tuesday evenings, starting on October 6 at 6:30 pm. You can take part in this study via ZOOM or by joining me, in-person, in the gym. The study will continue until November 26. Thank you for preregistering using the link below.
Let’s learn together, Pastor Steve
Micah 6:8 Nights
I confess that, when confused about the demands of the Christian faith, I return to and find clarity in Micah 6:8—
He has told you, O mortal, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?
Simple, really. Justice...kindness...a humble walk...and yet so challenging when set in the context of contemporary society and the many voices that cry for their own understanding of justice...kindness...and a humble walk with God. In light of social unrest and demands for a changed society how do Christians respond...I would say by turning to the Word of God and by praying.
Micah 6:8 Nights take place in the sanctuary on Wednesdays, starting October 7, from 6:30-7:45 pm. Here we’ll explore the Scriptures and then spend time praying for … whatever the Spirit of God leads us to offer.
Micah 6:8 Nights invite us to study and pray for God’s kingdom to come and God’s will to be done on earth as it is done in heaven … and especially in our own walk with God and others.
To pre-register for ZOOM or in-person participation, please click on the link below.
I look forward to sharing a journey of learning and prayer – Pastor Greg
It’s As Easy As Living
The very last words of Jesus, to his disciples, that we read in Matthew 28, verses 18 to 20, were very clear: All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of age.
A very clear passage indeed. But sometimes, the GO, speaks louder than the others words that compose Jesus’ final address to his disciples. As I paused and reflected about this, I came to the conclusion that the GO brings to mind the famous missionary stories and evangelistic initiatives we’ve heard, read about and maybe experienced, which are undoubtedly inspiring and moving.
However, it is not this word that is at the center of Jesus’ concluding words. In fact, in Greek, the only verb that is written in the imperative tense is MAKE (disciples). Thus, we must understand that Jesus emphasizes and prioritizes the discipleship-making process more than the ‘going’ and the trips.
Now that we are more than ever before limited in our comings and goings, we are left with the core of this important verse: focusing on making disciples of all nations, as we go about our daily life, here, right where God has us! Not a bad Covid-19 side effect if you ask me!
But what does that mean for us at Brunswick Street? It means that we have a unique opportunity, as individuals and as a congregation to hear from God, look around us and notice the ones who are earnestly seeking God and start engaging with them! Stay tuned for the upcoming series of workshops that will challenge us all to embrace Jesus’ mission on earth to seek and save the lost!
Workshops will take place on Thursday evenings, both in-person and on Zoom—so you can take part in whatever format is best for you. You won’t be weighed down with a load of guilt but will be encouraged to live life with a renewed desire to introduce your family and friends to your awesome friend, Jesus. It’s as easy as living and since your going to be living anyway, why not live in a way that builds the kindgom by loving others?
The first workshop will take place on Thursday, October 8, 7:00 pm in the gym. To pre-register, click on the link below. I’m excited about what we’ll share together – Pastor Charles.
8. Fall Business Meeting
The Moderator gives notice of the Fall Business Meeting to be held on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 6:30 p.m. A full agenda will appear in next week’s newsletter. The constitution requires 40 members attending for a quorum. As our COVID-19 protocols will be observed, reservations will be helpful in determining whether we will need to use the gym as well as the sanctuary. Like the Special Business Meeting in July, you may register to “attend” on ZOOM (you will be able to ask questions) but those on ZOOM will not be able to vote. Register below.
9. ANXIETY: A Spiritual Response – Continues TONIGHT
In this difficult time of anxiety in our world with the pandemic and everything else that is going on in our lives, we are looking for hope and encouragement. “Anxiety is inescapable in today’s world. When stress overpowers us and fear infects our minds, it can feel like the peace the Bible talks about is impossible to find. And no amount of pretending, overworking, or isolating ourselves will offer us the peace we need.
Pastor Jonathan Pokluda explores how Christians can face anxiety head-on. With real-life stories from people facing various kinds of anxiety, this series helps us see that peace can be found on this side of eternity.”
How to register
Everyone who would like to attend this Bible Study may register with Jason ( Xinkai Zhou) at xinkaixk.zhou@gmail.com. You do not need to be a member of BSBC to attend this Bible Study.
The study continues weekly through Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020 (6:30 to 8 p.m.)
Daniel Savard will facilitate the discussion during the Bible Study periods. For more information on the content of the Bible study see description below. If needed, feel free to contact Daniel at timberwolfe57@live.ca .
10. Online Service for Sunday, Sept. 27
This coming Sunday, we’re sure our online congregation will find blessing in our preacher, Pastor Charles Millette. Let him invite you to consider “what’s in a name.” For the contemporary recording our guest worship leaders are Faith and Adam Moore. Traditional worship is led by another of our new vocal ensembles and David Steeves offers solo ministry. The children’s time presented by Deborah VanSlyke. This service was recorded on Sunday, September 27.
11. In-Person Services: Sunday, Oct. 4
This Sunday we gather at the Lord’s Table. As with all things in these “unprecedented” times, the communion service will be a bit different. When you enter the gym or sanctuary you’ll each be given the elements for communion. This will take the form of a professionally prepackaged cup covered with two tabs.
Taking Communion
At the right time, you’ll peel back the first tab to reveal the bread and then later, you’ll peel back the second to ‘open’ the cup for drinking. We used these for the first time in a communion service at the end of August and, while different, those present would tell you that it was a meaningful time at the table. After taking each element, there will be an extended time for personal reflection with music. Thank you for engaging with us in this new approach to remembering Christ’s sacrifice.
Service leadership
At the services on October 4, Dr. Keith will offer a reflection on God’s provision for our greatest need. Contemporary worship in the gym will be led by Pastor Steve and friends. The traditional worship service will be musically led by Margaret Geldart, David Steeves, Gloria Tranquilla, and one of our new vocal ensembles.
12. Facility Assistant Position Available
BSBC is seeking the services of a part-time Facility Assistant. While some duties will be regular, others will be required on an as-needed, on-call basis.
Examples of regular duties include:
Gym chair set up for Sunday services
Weekly check of fire protection systems
Additional visual inspection of the interior and exterior of the building
Completing spring, summer and fall yard work (i.e. lawn mowing and leaf raking)
Examples of on-call duties include:
Odd jobs (i.e. replace light bulbs, repair leaking faucets, install and remove air conditioners)
Setting up chairs for events such as weddings and funerals
Providing building security during events such as weddings and funerals
This position does not require advanced maintenance skills and will be supported by professional contractors (i.e. plumber, electrician, etc.) should the need arise. Snow removal is excluded from responsibilities. Hours will be flexible; a guideline is 20‑30 hours per month. This projection is based on current operating conditions and is subject to change with the evolving COVID-19 situation and related church activity.
The Facility Assistant will report to the Personnel Committee and work cooperatively with church office staff for day-to-day identification of needs and scheduling.
How to apply
Interested candidates may drop off a resume at the church office Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; email receptionist@bsbc.nb.ca; or mail to 161 York Street, Fredericton, NB, E3B 3N8, by Oct. 12, 2020.
13. Sunday Library Opening
In addition to our Library being open on Wednesdays from 10 am until noon, it will now be open after the morning services. Please note that you might be asked to wait outside the door for a moment or two so that we can observe Physical Distancing, but we’ll be open until everyone gets in…and OUT! Thanks to our Librarian, Sharon Gosselin, and her team for extending the Library ministry to Sunday mornings.
14. Anglican Diocese Online Offering
Alan Sears (yes, related to Rebekah by fatherhood!), shares another invitation with us – something closer to home:
Twice a year the Anglican Diocese of Fredericton sponsors a Christian Forum that features Christian scholars exploring important themes and ideas from their work that have implications for our common life. This fall’s forum will take the form of an online webinar delivered by Dr. Tom Bateman, Professor of Political Science at STU. Dr. Bateman’s talk is titled “Does Liberalism Need Christianity.” It will take place on Thursday, October 8 between 7:00 and 8:00 pm. Dr. Bateman summarizes the talk this way: “Liberalism (by that he means the philosophy underlying liberal democracy and not the political party) owes a deep debt to Christianity, having grown out of Christian theological ideas and moral commitments. The talk will explore whether liberalism therefore may not be intelligible or sustainable outside of that theological and cultural framework.”
15. October Birthdays 🎉
YOUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
Dr. Keith Bodner, Preaching Pastor
Pastor Greg Geldart, Lead Pastor
Pastor Jim McLellan, Pastor of Senior’s Visitation
Pastor Charles Millette, Missionary in Residence
Pastor Steve Patterson, Outreach Pastor
Pastor Changbin Tian, Full-time Pastor to the Chinese Congregation
