Table of Contents
Living From Principles or a Person?
Wednesday 11th February 2026
The Bible begins by confronting a question many of us quietly carry: Is the world just chaos with a story we invent for ourselves? Scripture answers with a resounding no. Creation is not an accident, history is not random, and human life is not meaningless. As the psalmist declares,
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands”
(Psalm 19:1, NIV).
While the world can bear intention, beauty, and purpose, the Bible goes further. It does not say that the meaning of life is found in a principle, a philosophy, or a moral system. Instead, it insists that meaning has a face.
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us”
(John 1:14, NIV)
Christianity does not invite us to climb toward God through effort or enlightenment; it announces that God has come toward us in the person of Jesus Christ.
This is where the gospel stands apart from every other religious or human system. Across cultures and philosophies, the message is consistent: If you want to find god, improve yourself, be disciplined enough, enlightened enough, be moral enough, strong enough, spiritual enough – whether through rules, rituals, reason, or self-mastery, the burden always falls on the person to ascend.
But Scripture tells a different story.
Jesus does not say, “Become worthy and then come.” He says,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”
(Matthew 11:28, NIV)
The problem of the human heart is not a lack of effort but a lack of life. Paul writes plainly:
“You were dead in your transgressions and sins… but because of his great love for us, God… made us alive with Christ”
(Ephesians 2:1,4–5, NIV)
Christian faith is not about reaching higher consciousness; it is about resurrection. It is not about self-improvement; it is about new creation.
“If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come”
(2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV)
This changes everything. If the meaning of life is a Person, then faith is not merely belief — it is encounter. Christianity is not primarily about following rules, but about following Jesus. Not mastering principles, but knowing Christ. As Paul writes,
“I want to know Christ — yes, to know the power of his resurrection”
(Philippians 3:10, NIV)
The invitation of the gospel is simple but profound: stop striving to reach God, and start responding to the God who has already come near. The living Christ still meets people today — not as an idea to understand, but as a presence to encounter.
The question is not whether God is distant.
The question is whether we are willing to meet Him — personally, honestly, and fully — in Jesus Christ.
Food Pantry | Hope for Our City Starts Here
Our City of Casey Council honoured the BCOC Food Pantry with the Community Group of the Year award, recognising the incredible generosity of our volunteers and the quiet, faithful support given to people in need across our local community.
This recognition is deeply meaningful, but the real story is still unfolding every day. Families are still hurting. Cupboards are still empty. And our Food Pantry continues to be a place of dignity, hope, and practical love for so many.
We’re gently asking you to help us keep showing up.
Next time you shop for groceries, could you please consider buying just one additional item from the list below? One small act from you can make a very real difference for someone else. You can drop your donation into the Food Pantry trolley in the foyer Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm, or Sundays, 9am–12 noon.
Together, let’s love people and serve our city, being His presence in the City of Casey, one item at a time.
Items most needed:
- Biscuits (e.g. Arnott’s)
- Jam spreads
- Pasta sauces
- Olive oil
- Muesli bars
- Tinned tuna
- Soup (tinned or powdered)
- Long-life milk
- Toothpaste & toothbrushes
- Shampoo & conditioner
- Blankets
If it’s easier, we also gratefully accept cash, card, or online donations. Cash or card donations can be made during the times above, or you can give online:
- Account name: Berwick Church of Christ Inc.
- BSB: 033 609
- Account number: 434168
- Reference: FOOD PANTRY
Thank you for standing with us, caring deeply, and helping ensure no one in our city feels forgotten. Every gift matters. Every act of love counts.
Care Meals Team
A home-cooked meal can be such a blessing and an expression of love and care in times of need. We would love to expand our team of people who are willing to prepare meals, either to deliver or bring them to the church freezer for distribution as needed. Does this sound like a way that you could be His presence in the lives of others?
Please use this form to express your interest in being part of our Care Meals Team (or email sue@bcoc.com.au if you have questions). Sue Nicholls.
Sunday Services | 15th February 2026 | 9am & 11am
Come along and experience our powerful new series called Encounter.
For centuries, lives have been transformed by a single encounter with Jesus, from Nicodemus in secrecy, to Levi at the tax table, to the woman at the well, and countless men and women ever since. Those who truly encounter Jesus experience remarkable, radical and enduring change.
In this series, we’ll step into these unforgettable Gospel moments and discover how an encounter with Jesus transforms our deepest longings, confronts our hardest questions, and ignites unshakeable hope. We’ll see the beauty, goodness, and truth of who Jesus is, and how His life and teachings continue to bring real, lasting transformation today.
As we connect through Scripture, we will be inspired to share with others what God is doing in our own story and to carry His presence into every place we go.
Over seven weeks, we’ll journey through these powerful encounters together during the 9:00am and 11:00am services.
Come expectant.
Come ready.
Come and encounter Jesus.
Kids Church | Sunday 15th February 2026 | 9am & 11am
This week Kids Church:
2 to 4-year-olds | Mary and Martha | Luke 10:38-42
5 to 12-year-olds | Zacchaeus | Luke 19:1-10
Boys Brigade | Monday 16th February 2026 | From 6:00pm
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
Prayer & Fellowship Walk | Tuesday 17th February | 6:30am
The Tuesday morning Prayer and Fellowship Walk is around the church property and is a powerful time of seeking the Lord together in prayer.
We pray for our church, community and nation. So come and join us at 6:30 am in the Berwick Church of Christ Car Park.
This is a wonderful way to start the day and you are most welcome to join us. If you haven’t joined us before please message 0419 277 500 by 8.00pm on Monday evening so we can keep you updated of any changes to the plans.
Family Camping Weekend or Day Out | 20 February 2026 @ 2:00pm - 22 February @ 12:00pm
It’s on again! Calling all camping families – kids of any age are welcome!
We invite you to join us from Friday February 20th to Sunday February 22nd 2026, for the Family Camping Weekend at Warburton. Our main priority is to strengthen the bonds between your family and others.
We’ll enjoy being surrounded by stunning nature and a sense of freedom as we watch children play, enjoy the fantastic free water park and paddle in the Yarra River. The nearby town has plenty of cafes and a Redwood Forest with walking and cycling trails; a great place for fun photos.
At night, get ready for cosy campfires, where we’ll swap stories, roast marshmallows, and enjoy fellowship (please note that campfires and the water park are not available if a Total Fire Ban is declared)
We are staying at the Warburton Holiday Park. Camping is always loads of fun, and even better in a group, but you are welcome to book a cabin if you prefer.
Engage your adventurous spirit, pack a sense of humour, and book a site or cabin for this fantastic weekend. Come and embrace the great outdoors with us! We do advise booking soon if possible as cabins and good sites go quickly!
If the whole weekend isn’t an option for you, you are very welcome to bring food etc and join us on Saturday (provided it is not Total Fire Ban), just let one of the organisers know to expect you, and use the ‘Book Now’ button so we have your details and can keep you updated.
When and where is this all happening?
CAMPING Option:
- Date: Friday 20th – Sunday 22nd February 2026
- Time: Arrive from 2.00 pm Friday, leave by 12.00 pm Sunday, or time of your choosing on Saturday
- Address: Warburton Holiday Park, 30 Woods Point Rd, Warburton, VIC, 3799
DAY Option:
- Date: 21st February
- Time: From 9:00am to 9:00pm or whatever time suits your family
Here’s what to do next!
- Choose your site from the “L”, “F” and “C” sites. You can see where others are camped here, so please add your family to this list after booking.
- Call and book a campsite 5966 2277 or visit the Warburton Holiday Park website to book. A powered site costs $59 per night for two people, plus extra for children (book for Friday and Saturday nights unless you want to stay longer than the rest of us). You can also book a cabin or lodge if that suits you better. Advise the caravan park office or note in the comments section that you are with Berwick Church of Christ. Note that a laptop is easier than a phone when navigating the online booking system.
- Importantly, we need to know that you are coming so we can send communication updates. After booking with Warburton Holiday Park and obtaining a site or cabin number, please REGISTER HERE.
- If you plan to come for the day, please also REGISTER so we can update you and look out for you. We will add campers and day visitors to the WhatsApp chat group for easy communication before and during the weekend.
Shout out if you have any questions
Sue 0403 822 324 or sue@bcoc.com.au
Mikayla 0431 317 332
James 0449 662 512
Amie 0448 762 314
Sarah 0490 016 122
We look forward to seeing you in Warburton whether for the weekend or the day!
Seniors Ministry | Wednesday 25th February 2026 | 1:00pm
Safari with Glenda & Ian Hutchinson
You’re warmly invited to join our Seniors Ministry for a special armchair adventure through Africa! Glenda and Ian Hutchinson will take you on an unforgettable safari journey, sharing stunning visuals, stories, and moments from their travels across this incredible continent. From breathtaking landscapes to fascinating wildlife, this will be an engaging and joy-filled afternoon of discovery, laughter, and connection.
Come along, bring a friend, and enjoy great company as we travel together, no passport required!
Women’s Gatherings | 20th – 29th March 2026
Something special is happening and you’re invited!
Between 20th – 29th March, women from BCOC are gathering in various small groups to:
- Build meaningful connections
- Grow together in our discipleship journey
- Enjoy genuine community in a warm, relaxed setting
- Have lots of fun and meet new people
Spots are limited, so click Book Now to register for one gathering that suits your availability and interests.
Whether you’re new to the church or already well connected, there’s a place for you. You’re also very welcome to invite a friend or neighbour to register with you.
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
