Table of Contents
Baptism
Wednesday 10th July 2024
Sacramentalism, the change salvation brings.
As believers, dedicating our lives to Christ is a transformative decision. One of the significant steps in this journey of faith is baptism. Baptism is not merely a ritual but a powerful act that symbolises our new identity in Christ and fortifies the changes we embrace in our spiritual walk.
Baptism represents a public declaration of our faith and commitment to follow Jesus. It is an outward expression of an inward transformation. Romans 6:4 beautifully captures this essence:
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
Through baptism, we identify with Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, signifying the death of our old selves and the birth of a new creation in Christ.
Moreover, baptism is a powerful reminder of God’s grace and forgiveness. Acts 2:38 states,
“Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'”
This verse underscores the connection between repentance, baptism, and the reception of the Holy Spirit. Baptism reassures us of God’s promise to cleanse us from our sins and fill us with His Spirit, empowering us to live a transformed life.
Baptism is also a spiritual experience that strengthens our sense of belonging within the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:13 says,
“For we were all baptized by one Spirit to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.”
Through baptism, we are united with fellow believers in the authentic, universal church as the Spirit transforms us. This fosters a sense of community and mutual support as we journey together in faith. This goes way beyond having your name on a member’s list of any local church.
Furthermore, baptism is an act of obedience to Christ’s command. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus instructs His disciples,
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Following this command demonstrates our willingness to submit to Christ’s authority and live according to His teachings.
In conclusion, baptism is a vital and transformative step in the life of a believer. It signifies our new identity in Christ, affirms God’s grace and forgiveness, strengthens our bond with the Christian community, and exemplifies our obedience to Jesus’ command. As we embrace the changes that come with dedicating our lives to Christ, let us remember the profound significance of baptism and its role in our spiritual transformation.
The Art of Neighbouring | 7 week church wide series
We want to let you know of an exciting initiative we are doing together as a church. But first, watch the video below.
Wherever you live, whatever you do, you are a neighbour to someone. What if Jesus actually meant what he said, when he invites us to love our neighbours? What does this look like? Who are your neighbours? Do you know them? Do you love them?
To address these questions, our church is running a churchwide series called the “Art of Neighbouring” where we get to explore the second half of the Great Commandment, that is, “Love your neighbour.” We will dive deep into what it looks like to transform our neighbourhoods by simply becoming a good neighbour.
So how can you take part?
Firstly, attend the 6 weekend services. All sermons will relate to loving our neighbour.
Secondly, participate in weekly life groups. We encourage life groups to meet weekly for 7 weeks to watch the teaching videos and go through the book and study guides. If you are not in a Life Group then we encourage you to start one up or sign up to one by clicking here. The book ($20) and study guide (free) will be available from Sunday, 23 June at The Desk.
And lastly, if you are a parent of school aged children, I invite you to bring your kids to Kids’ Church and/or FUSE Youth as they will be running the series as well.
Want to know more?
Come to The Desk after the service.
Send your queries to [email protected].
Check out the website at berwickchurch.org.au/neighbouring.
Let us love our neighbours well, together!
Food Pantry | Our Community Needs Your Help
In 2023, the Food Pantry supported 96 families (231 visits) who required crisis support. 96 families! Imagine, they could be your friends or neighbours; local families who are doing it tough. The City of Casey Council recognised the generous support the Food Pantry and volunteers give to our local community. Council presented BCOC Food Pantry with the ‘Community Group of the Year’ award. Let’s reach out and show support by purchasing something from our list below in your next shopping trip. Then simply drop it in the Food Pantry trolley located in the foyer, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm or Sundays 9am -12 noon.
Needed items:
- Biscuits (e.g. Arnott’s)
- Jam Spreads
- Pasta sauces
- Olive oil
- Muesli bars
- Tinned tuna
- Soup (e.g. tinned, powdered)
- Long life milk
- Toothpaste & toothbrushes
- Shampoo & conditioner
- Blankets
- Reusable shopping bags
We also accept cash, card, and online donations. Payment via cash or card can be made during the above times or you can donate online.
- Account name: Berwick Church of Christ Inc.
- BSB: 033 609
- Account number: 434168
- Reference: FOOD PANTRY
This is one way we can Love People, be His presence and Serve our City of Casey!
Operation Christmas Child | Send a Gift-Filled Shoebox in Jesus' Name
Would you like to bring joy and Jesus to the lives of children in need? How about 200 children? How about 300 children? You have the opportunity to do this by taking part in Operation Christmas Child. And you can do it in 6 easy steps!
- Purchase a box from the stand beside The Desk for $1
- Fill the box with the gifts
- Label your box
- Bring the box back by Sunday 28th July 2024
- Make a $12.50 donation for shipping and gospel materials
- Pray for the child who will receive your box
Bring joy and Jesus to the life of a child this Christmas by taking part in Operation Christmas Child.
Any questions? Come see the Team in the church foyer after the service and they are happy to assist and respond to your queries.
Kids Church | Oodie Fun Day | Sunday 14th July
Term 3 Kids Church will kick off this Sunday 14th July with a special Kids Oodie Fun Day. Wear your Oodie or favourite jumper, and invite a friend or neighbour to come along and join in the fun!
Serve Your City | Volunteering Opportunities
At Berwick Church of Christ, we encourage everyone to Follow Christ, Love People, Serve their City, and Grow Faith Communities. We want to invite you to prayerfully consider serving your city in one of the following three ways. We look forward to helping you go and be His presence in these places.
Do you have a heart for refugees? We are looking for mentors to support eligible people from a refugee background through the COACH Community Mentoring Program located in the Dandenong/Casey region.
What is COACH Mentoring?
Coach Mentoring assists refugees who are seeking to become economically independent.
Each mentee’s goals are identified before being matched with a suitable mentor.
Typically, mentors and mentee’s meet once a week, for an hour and this relationship would continues for a period of 12 months.
Mentors are allocated a COACH Coordinator as a contact point to support them throughout this mentoring relationship.
Our mentoring program suits people with a heart to come alongside and support refugees as they settle in Melbourne. Mentors undergo training and screening checks, before being matched with a participant. The purpose of the mentoring relationship is to be a “friend with purpose”, to support them as they work towards achieving their identified goals, such as education, employment and making community connections.
If you have questions, or would like further information, please don’t hesitate to send an email to [email protected] with your contact details.
As a Kids COACH Mentor, you can help children learn positive social skills, have fun, reach their goals, and build resilience. Come alongside a child at school to offer practical help and be a positive role model for one hour a week, for a minimum of 12 months. This opportunity is in partnership with Crossway South East, with an initial commitment of one day of in-person training and an online module. (10 volunteers for Term 3, 2024).
For more information, contact Ps Mat Daniels. Email: [email protected] or phone (03) 9702 1011.
Would you like to empower primary-aged students to implement positive change in their lives? As a REBOOT program volunteer, you can help upper primary school students (grades 5 and 6) learn about wellbeing through fun games and activities during lunchtime. The wellbeing topics covered are Self-Esteem, Perceived Control, Optimism, Personal Relationships, and Achieving in Life, which are delivered in an actionable format. (5 volunteers for Term 1, 2025 training to be confirmed).
For more information, contact Ps Mat Daniels. Email: [email protected] or phone (03) 9702 1011.
Sunday Service | 14th July | How Can We BLESS Our Neighbour? | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
The second half of the Great Commandment tells us to love our neighbour as we love ourselves but how do we do this in a simple, strategic, and scriptural way? Come and hear Ps Braam share how we can practically love our neighbours by blessing them.
Kids Church | Sunday 14th July | 9am & 11am
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds | Miracle at a Wedding | John 2: 1-11
5 to 12-year-olds | I heard it through the grapevine | Wedding at Cana | John 2:1-11
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 14th July | 5:45 pm
Calling all men! At our weekly gatherings, we come together to pray, support one another in our faith journey, and grow deeper in our relationship with God.
Whether you are a seasoned prayer warrior or new, we welcome you with open arms. Our group is a safe space where men can come together to share their hearts, struggles, and victories.
Join us as we seek God’s guidance, wisdom, and strength in our lives and for our families. Together, we can uplift each other, grow in faith, and make a real difference in our community.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land”. (2 Chronicles 7:14).
Come and join our Men’s Prayer Group where together we seek the Lord for our families, community and nation.
Boys Brigade | Monday 15th July | 7:30 pm
Be part of the action.
For over 20 years the Boys’ Brigade has advanced Christ’s Kingdom among boys.
ANCHORS | Grades 1 & 2: 6pm – 7.15pm
JUNIORS | Grades 3 – 6: 7pm – 8.30pm
SENIORS | Grades 7 to 18 years old: 7pm – 9.30pm
Mental Health Support Gathering | Tuesday 16th July | 7:30 pm
Mental Health Support Gatherings cater for people who may benefit from mental health support. This may be personally or to assist a friend, family member or carer. This is a safe place to be heard, to share life’s challenges, make friendships and have hope restored. Remember, you are not alone.
In addition, the Gatherings also provide tools to assist people in dealing with life challenges and, on occasion, have specialist speakers addressing relevant topics. The Mental Health Support Gatherings are held on Tuesdays fortnightly during the School Terms from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. If you’re interested in coming along please click the ‘Book Now’ link below and choose: Special Interest Group: Mental Health Support Gatherings. For more information please contact the Church Office 03 9702 1011. The Mental Health Support Gatherings are a ministry of the Berwick Church of Christ.
Y&Y Baptism Service | Sunday 21st July | 5:30pm
We are having our FIRST EVER Y&Y Baptism Service, and we want you to be there! This is going to be an incredible service where we celebrate all the wonderful testimonies of how good our God is, and stand with those making the decision to get baptised. If you would like to be baptised or know someone who wants to get baptised, please reach out to Jordan and the YA leadership team ASAP!
We will also be serving hot chocolate before the service starts, so get down early to grab a hot choccy!
Make sure you are there to celebrate with those getting baptised and bring your mates! Also, stick around for food and fellowship after the service!
Seniors Ministry | Friendship Group | Wednesday 24th July | 1:30 pm
We will discover the amazing history & geography of Peru. The flag colour is red and white – start planning now for your outfits and hats in red & white. Time: 1.30pm – 4.00pm. Where: 446 Centre Road, Berwick, Vic, 3806. Bring: please provide a plate for everyone to share.
Writers Group | Saturday 27th July | 9:00 am
Aspiring writers, are you looking for a creative outlet to showcase your writing talents and connect with fellow literary enthusiasts? We are thrilled to invite you to join our Writers Group, where your words will come to life in a community of like-minded individuals.
Whether you write poetry, short stories, essays, or anything in between, we welcome all writing styles and genres. So come join us and ignite your passion for writing! Together, we will inspire each other to reach new heights and unlock our full potential as writers. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be a part of something truly special.
Join us today and let your creativity soar!
Exploring Partnership | Sunday 11th August | 1:00 pm
Exploring Partnership is an important step in taking up co-ownership of the vision, mission, and purpose of our Church. This meeting is an opportunity to understand the role of partnership in the broader functioning of the Church. You will meet some of our Church Leadership as we chat about how you can partner with us to make our vision a reality.
If you regularly attend Berwick Church of Christ and are not yet a partner, we would like to invite you to attend our next meeting and enjoy lunch together.
Have a safety concern?
We are serious about keeping our faith community safe. We encourage all staff, volunteers, partners and congregation to report any concerns they have about safety and wellbeing. We are committed to handling all concerns seriously, legally and in a child-focused way (if concerning children).
If you have any concerns about safety at the Church, we strongly encourage you to share your concern with one of our Pastors or the Safety Contact Person, Karen Fletcher and fill in our Reporting Concerns Form.
From the Governance Committee
We are pleased to announce that we have now implemented two new policies, and updated the General Definitions. They are:
WHS Policy – This policy outlines how the Church intends to fulfill its commitment to workplace health and safety – it contains details of principles, objectives and commitments.
Equipment Use Policy – The basis of this policy is to safeguard the equipment from damage, loss or inaccessibility to ministries who may need the equipment.
General Definitions – This is a list of definitions used throughout all our policies, procedures, codes of conduct, guidelines and forms. This has been updated to include some additional definitions relevant to WHS.
All our policies are located on the church website – www.berwickchurch.org.au/policies.
We encourage questions or feedback about any of our policies, simply email [email protected].
Please don’t hesitate to contact Karen Fletcher at the Church Office (9702 1011) should you wish to have a chat.
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
