Table of Contents
Dispelling Myths About Spending Time with Your Neighbours
Wednesday 24th July 2024
In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to fall prey to myths that prevent us from fostering meaningful relationships with our neighbours. Let’s address three common misconceptions that can keep us from experiencing the joy and growth that come from these connections, using the wisdom found in Scripture.
Myth 1: “Things will settle down someday…”
We often tell ourselves that we’ll have more time to connect with our neighbours once things settle down. However, life rarely slows down on its own. Ecclesiastes 11:4 reminds us,
“Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap.”
Waiting for the perfect moment to reach out will only lead to missed opportunities. Instead, we should seize the present moment to build relationships. Jesus taught us the value of living in the now: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34).
Myth 2: “I first need to accumulate more stuff…”
Another common myth is the belief that we need to accumulate more possessions or achieve certain milestones before we can be generous with our time and resources. This is a distraction from what truly matters. Jesus said,
“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions”
(Luke 12:15).
Our value and ability to make a difference are not tied to our material wealth. In Acts 20:35, Paul reminds us of Jesus’ teaching, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Sharing our time and kindness enriches both our lives and those of our neighbours far more than accumulating possessions ever could.
Myth 3: “Everybody is too busy…so my neighbours would be too…”
It’s easy to assume that everyone is too busy for meaningful connections. Yet, this assumption can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Philippians 2:4 encourages us to
“not look to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
By reaching out and showing genuine interest in our neighbours’ lives, we can break through the busyness barrier. Proverbs 27:10 offers a practical perspective:
“Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family, and do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you—better a neighbour nearby than a relative far away.”
Close, supportive relationships with neighbours can be a source of strength and community.
Conclusion
Breaking free from these myths requires a shift in perspective and intentional action. By recognizing that life is now, valuing generosity over accumulation, and overcoming assumptions about busyness, we can cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships with our neighbours. Let us be inspired by the teachings of Jesus and the wisdom of Scripture to live out love and community in our daily lives.
Scripture References
Ecclesiastes 11:4 (NIV)
Matthew 6:34 (NIV)
Luke 12:15 (NIV)
Acts 20:35 (NIV)
Philippians 2:4 (NIV)
Proverbs 27:10 (NIV)
Let’s take the first step today. Reach out to a neighbour, extend a hand of friendship, and watch as God works through these connections to bless us all.
Invitation to Pastor Ken's farewell | Sunday 28th July 2024
With hearts full of gratitude and love, we invite you to formally say goodbye to Pastor Ken Rayment, who has faithfully served Berwick Church of Christ for the past nine and a half years. Under his leadership, our church has experienced a spiritual revival, and his dedication and passion have been a rich blessing to us all.
- Date: Sunday 28th July 2024
- Time: 12:45 pm
- Location: Berwick Church of Christ
Pastor Ken’s unwavering commitment to our congregation has galvanized our community and deepened our faith. His teachings, kindness, and spiritual guidance have left an indelible mark on our hearts. As we bid him farewell, we want to celebrate his contributions and express our heartfelt thanks for his ministry.
Please join us for this special occasion as we honour Pastor Ken and his remarkable journey with us. Refreshments will be served following the service, allowing us to share memories, express our gratitude, and extend our best wishes to him.
We look forward to seeing you there and making this a memorable and heartfelt farewell for Pastor Ken.
Blessings
The board of elders
The Art of Neighbouring | 7 week church wide series
As a whole church, we are starting an exciting new initiative from 21st July. Check out 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!
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 from 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.
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 | 28th July | The Time Barrier | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
We continue our churchwide series called the “Art of Neighbouring” where we get to follow the second half of the Great Commandment, that is, “Love your neighbour”. Join us as we explore what it looks like to transform the world by simply becoming a good neighbour.
Kids Church | Sunday 28th July | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds | Heaven Revelation |Revelation 21, 22:1-5; John 14:3
5 to 12-year-olds | At the end of the day – Heaven | Revelation 21, 22:1-5
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 28th 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 29th 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 30th 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.
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.
Baptism Class | Monday 12th August | 7:00 pm
Baptism is the complete immersion into water of those who have confessed their faith in Jesus Christ as God’s Son and their Saviour.
However, it is more than just immersion in water. It has a number of significant meanings.
Complete the expression of interest form if you want to be contacted about attending the Baptism Class.
Seniors Ministry | Friendship Group | Wednesday 14th August | 1:30 pm
Libby will tell us about this organization whose motto is “The next best thing to a hug.” QFO provides quilts for orphanages in many Third World countries. There will be a trading table. Time: 1.30pm – 4.00pm. Where: 446 Centre Road, Berwick, Vic, 3806. Bring: please provide a plate for everyone to share.
Y&Y Service | Sunday 18th August | Josh Hawkins | 5:30 pm
Josh (or Hi Josh) is a pastor-turned social media comedian. He grew up in a church in North-West Sydney, decided to do a Bachelor of Theology for 3 years and became the Young Adult Pastor at his church. He was doing social media as a hobby and, in 2015, went viral with a couple of videos which started to grow his following. After 5 years of full-time ministry, his social media following had grown to a point where he was able to follow his passion and became a full-time content creator. Now, with over 2 million followers, he’s best known for his Google Review and lip-reading videos. He’s also a dad of two who lives in Adelaide and attends a local church with his family. Be sure to join us in food and fellowship after the service. SEE YOU THERE!
Writers Group | Saturday 7th September | 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!
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.
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
