Table of Contents
Motives Matter!
Wednesday 7th August 2024
As we journey through life, one of our greatest callings as Christ-followers is to reach out to non-believers, sharing the transformative love and grace we have found in Jesus. The motive behind our outreach is crucial. It is love that must compel us—love for God and love for our fellow humans.
In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus gives us the greatest commandments: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’” These commandments are the foundation of our mission. When our outreach is rooted in genuine love, it reflects the heart of God and aligns us with His purposes.
In his letter to the Corinthians, the apostle Paul emphasises the paramount importance of love in all we do: “If I speak in the tongues of men or angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:1-2, NIV). Love is the essence of our faith and must be the driving force behind our outreach efforts.
Our world is filled with people searching for meaning, hope, and acceptance. As Christ-followers, we possess the answer to their deepest longings. Jesus tells us in John 13:34-35, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” Our love for each other and for those outside the faith is the most compelling testimony we can offer.
When we reach out to non-believers with love, we mirror the heart of God, who “so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16, NIV). God’s love is sacrificial, unconditional, and all-encompassing. This divine love should inspire and motivate us to share the good news of Jesus with those who do not yet know Him.
Furthermore, in Romans 5:8, Paul reminds us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This profound truth should humble and inspire us. If God loved us so much that He reached out to us while we were still in our sin, how much more should we extend His love to those who have not yet experienced His grace?
Our approach must be marked by compassion, understanding, and patience. As Peter advises in 1 Peter 3:15-16, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behaviour in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” Our love should be evident in our words and actions, drawing others to the beauty of the Gospel.
Let us commit to being vessels of God’s love, reaching out to non-believers with hearts full of compassion and grace. May our lives reflect the love of Christ so profoundly that others are irresistibly drawn to Him. Together, empowered by the Holy Spirit, let us make a difference in our communities and beyond, sharing the hope and love that only Jesus can provide.
Celebrating the Life of Christine Smith
Our beloved Christine Smith has gone home to be with our heavenly Father and we remember her as someone who always looked on the bright side of life.
Join us as we celebrate her life on Monday, 12th of August at 1.00pm at the church.
Psalm 116:15 NIV
Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants.
Food Pantry | Our city 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 our support by purchasing something from our list in your next shop. You can drop it off in the Food Pantry trolley located in the foyer, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm or Sundays 9am-12 noon.
Let’s Love People and Serve Our City, and buy one item to be His presence in the City of Casey!
- 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
Exciting Opportunity to be His Presence in our Community
Do you have a spare weekday morning?
Would you like to join our Playgroup team as we reach beyond the church walls with the love of Jesus?
If so, we have an exciting and hugely rewarding opportunity to be one of our Child Free Helpers.
Have you ever wondered what our Child-Free Helpers do during “their” session?
The short answer is that it varies according to a helpers gifts and abilities.
Some mostly cuddle babies and help toddlers to “dress-up” or participate in crafts.
Some mostly wash paintbrushes and wipe tables to leave the room ready for the next group.
Some facilitate a short singing and story time.
For those who enjoy socialising, some volunteers chat with mums, learn their stories, and even follow up with them during the week.
Some do all of the above!
It’s not a “one-size-fits-all” role, so if any of this sounds like you, please reach out to Sue. Mobile 0403 822 324. Email playgroup@bcoc.com.au.
Lost property | Missing something?
Do you want to be reunited with your lost items sitting at The Desk, waiting for their rightful owners to claim them? We know how frustrating it can be to misplace something important. If you have lost something, whether a drink bottle, clothing, or any other valuable item, please come to The Desk and claim it as soon as possible. All items that are not collected, will be donated to the Opportunity Shop on Monday, September 2nd, 2024.
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 refugees@coachnetwork.org 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: mdaniels@bcoc.com.au 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: mdaniels@bcoc.com.au or phone (03) 9702 1011.
Sunday Service | 11th August | Motives Matter | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
We continue our churchwide series called the “Art of Neighbouring” where we will unpack the second half of the Great Commandment, “Love your neighbour”. Join us as we dive deep into what it looks like to transform the world by simply becoming a good neighbour.
Kids Church | Sunday 11th August | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds | God made me in his Image | Genesis 1:26-27; Psalms 28:7, 104:24, 121:2; Proverbs 2:6; Acts 17:24
5 to 12-year-olds | See yourself – The speck and plank | Matthew 7:1-5
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.
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 11th August | 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.
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.
Boys Brigade | Monday 12th August | 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 13th August | 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.
Seniors Ministry | Friendship Group | Wednesday 14th August | 1:30 pm
Quilts For Orphans – 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.
Y&Y Service | Josh Hawkins | Sunday 18th August | 5:30 pm
Josh (or Hi Josh) is a pastor-turned social media comedian. He grew up at 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. Initially, social media was a hobby of Josh’s, but in 2015 a couple of videos went viral which started to grow his online 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 is best known for his Google Review and lip-reading videos. He is 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!
Graeme Cann Book Launch | Thursday 22nd August | 1:00 pm
Graeme and Julia have worked together to develop Graeme’s seventh published book. “WALKING in the LIGHT at MIDNIGHT” weaves together the experiences and words of biblical figures such as David and Job and the stories of six people who, between them, have experienced physical, mental and psychological pain. Come along for a great time where we will hear Graeme talk about his latest book.
- Date: Thursday 22nd August 2024
- Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
- Address: 446 Centre Road, Berwick
- Cost: Free
- Light refreshments provided
Graeme’s book can be purchased by bank transfer or cash. $20 hardback or $15 paperback.
Baptism Celebration | Sunday 25th August | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
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 would like to be contacted about being Baptised.
Next Steps Lunch | Sunday 25th August | 1:00 pm
As a movement, it’s important for us to get to know each other better and take the next steps in our journey of faith. To this end, we want to invite you to the … Next Steps Lunch.
The Next Steps Lunch is a 3-Sunday Lunch event (Sunday 25th August, 8th and 15th September 2024) where you will have the opportunity to get connected, learn more about our church movement and discover your potential, whilst enjoying a delicious meal.
The lunches are especially relevant to Newcomers but if you’ve been an attender, a volunteer, or partner and you have never been to a Next Step Lunch before, then we encourage you to register.
The expectation is that people who book will attend all 3 lunches as each lunch has a different focus. And did I mention that it’s free?
Details:
- Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
- Where: 446 Centre Road, Berwick
- Room: 1
- Cost: Free
- RSVP: Thursday, 22nd August 2024
For more details, please email info@bcoc.com.au or phone (03) 9702 1011.
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!
Growing To Maturity (GTM 1) Course | Commencing Tuesday 17th September 2024 | 7:00pm
GTM is the ideal follow-on course to ‘Search To Find’ or ‘Alpha”. It is the perfect next step for those who:
- Are hungry to grow in their relationship with God
- Want their faith to move from head knowledge to life experience
- Desire to learn how to live out the Christian life in a practical way
Growing To Maturity (GTM) is a unique discipleship course that combines the use of:
- Participant workbooks
- DVD’s
- Weekly inspiring audio talks
- Group discussion and sharing
- Special weekends
- Personal challenges
Alpha Course | Commencing Wednesday 18th September 2024 | 7:00pm
Alpha is a series of interactive sessions that create a safe and honest space, where people can explore life, faith and meaning.
Enjoy a meal with others, watch an Alpha Talk video and have an open discussion in a friendly and non-judgemental environment.
Connect
Connecting with others is important; friends gather around the kitchen table, meeting for coffee or catching up online. It’s no different at Alpha. All sessions start with a time to connect, relax and build friendships – whether in person or virtually.
Watch
The Alpha talks are designed to engage and inspire conversation. Each video talk is around thirty minutes long and explores important issues around faith and the basics of Christianity.
We address questions such as;
“Who is Jesus?”
“How can we have faith?”
“Why and how do I pray?”
“How does God guide us?”
Discuss
One of the most important parts of any Alpha Course is sharing thoughts and ideas in small groups. There’s no obligation to say anything, and there’s nothing you can’t share (seriously). It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly, and respectful environment.
Growing To Maturity (GTM 2) Course | Commencing Tuesday 8th October 2024 | 7:00 pm
GTM 2 is aimed at developing levels of intimacy and obedience to Christ and is available for those who have completed GTM 1.
Growing To Maturity (GTM) is a unique discipleship course that combines the use of:
- Participant App
- Videos
- Weekly inspiring audio talks
- Group discussion and sharing
- Special weekends
- Personal challenges
Growing To Maturity (GTM 3) Course | Commencing Tuesday 8th October 2024 | 7:00 pm
GTM 3 is aimed at developing deeper levels of intimacy and obedience. GTM 3 includes a powerful weekend retreat with God! Please note, GTM 3 is only available for participants who have completed GTM 1 & GTM 2.
Growing To Maturity (GTM) is a unique discipleship course that combines the use of:
- Participant App
- Videos
Weekly inspiring audio talks - Group discussion and sharing
- Special weekends
- Personal challenges
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
