Table of Contents
Raising your family in a Babylonian culture
Wednesday 14th May 2025
Raising a family in today’s culture often feels like raising Daniel in Babylon. We are surrounded by shifting values, moral ambiguity, and cultural pressures that challenge the convictions of Christ-centred living. Yet, just like Daniel and his friends, our families are called to faithfully stand within culture, not to flee from it – to be shaped by God’s truth, not by Babylon.
In Daniel 1:8, “But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine,” we see a young man who learned conviction from somewhere. Likely, it was instilled in his home. Raising a family in “Babylon” means cultivating in our children the ability to stand firm in their identity as God’s people, while participating in society with wisdom and grace.
Deuteronomy 6:6–7 commands, “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road…” Even in exile, this remains our calling: the daily, intentional discipleship that doesn’t outsource spiritual formation to others but roots it in the home.
Babylon tried to rename Daniel and his friends (Daniel 1:7), stripping them of their Hebrew names and identity. Today’s culture similarly seeks to rename our children, redefining their worth, gender, and purpose. But we must remind them daily of who God says they are: “You are God’s masterpiece…” (Ephesians 2:10); “You did not receive a spirit of fear…” (2 Timothy 1:7); “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood…” (1 Peter 2:9).
While culture pushes conformity, Romans 12:2 challenges us: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” We raise families in Babylon by living transformed lives—grounded in Scripture, prayer, worship, and service.
But it’s not just about surviving Babylon—it’s about seeking its renewal. Jeremiah 29:7 commands the exiles, “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city… Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Families rooted in Christ can be agents of renewal—loving their neighbours, serving their schools, and reflecting Jesus in everyday life.
Raising a family in Babylon isn’t easy. But with God’s truth as our foundation, and the Spirit as our guide, we can raise resilient, compassionate, and faithful children who shine in the darkness (Philippians 2:15).
Sunday Service | Building In Babylon - FAMILY | Sunday 18th May 2025 | 9:00am & 11:00am
You’re invited to join us as we continue our series, “Building…in Babylon!”
In a world that often feels chaotic and increasingly secular, how do we build faith, hope, and resilience?
Over the course of seven powerful weeks, we’re diving deep into God’s Word, uncovering timeless truths and practical wisdom that equip us to thrive — even in today’s “Babylon.”
From navigating the dynamics of Manhood and Womanhood (especially on Mother’s Day), to understanding the foundation of Family, Identity, and Intimacy, this series tackles relevant topics that shape our everyday lives. We’ll also explore the Holy Spirit’s power during Pentecost and the unwavering importance of integrity as we live out our faith in a challenging world.
“…Seek the peace and prosperity of the city… for I know the plans I have for you…” – Jeremiah 29:4-14 (NIV)
Don’t miss this transformative journey as we boldly navigate the challenges of living as believers in a secular world. Together, let’s build faith and strength in the face of adversity. Join us for “Building…in Babylon!”.
Kids Church | Deborah | Sunday 18th May 2025 | 9:00am & 11:00am
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds | Deborah | Judges 4:1-10, 14; 5:1-31
5 to 12-year-olds | Be Slow to Anger | James 1:19
Y&Y Service | Sunday, 18th May 2025 | 5:30pm
Everyone is welcome to join us for our Y & Y Service. We will be spending some time worshipping and diving into the Word with guest speaker, Brett Ryan.
Brett was a Critical Care Nurse for 15 years before becoming the Children’s Pastor at CityLife Church for 12 years. He has been in his current role as CEO at Focus on the Family since 2013. Brett and his wife Kate have been married for 35 years and have 3 sons, 3 beautiful daughters-in-law and 5 grandchildren.
Brett brings the voice of experience and wise perspective. For many young adults, sexuality can be confusing , frustrating and challenging. You may have asked the question: I’m single, what’s the purpose of sexuality? What if I never get married? Brett will aim to address these questions and discuss relationships, stewarding sexuality, and how to face other issues in a highly sexualised world. Stick around afterwards for food and fellowship.
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 18th May | 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 19th May | 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 20th May | 6:30am
Join us Tuesday mornings for Prayer & Fellowship Walk!
Start your Tuesdays with an uplifting time of prayer and fellowship. We meet every Tuesday morning at 6:30 am in the Berwick Church of Christ car park. Enjoy a refreshing walk around the church property while lifting our church and community in prayer.
All are welcome to join this wonderful start to the day.
Working Bee | Register Now! | Saturday 24th May 2025
Join us for our next Working Bee as we roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty to improve the beautiful property we have been blessed with. Prepare for an exciting day of hands-on fun and teamwork.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or first-time volunteer, there’s a place for everyone! Bring your enthusiasm and maybe a friend or two! Stay tuned for more details – a signup sheet is coming soon. Many thanks in advance, we greatly appreciate your support.
Child Dedication Services | Sunday 25th May 2025 | 9:00am & 11:00am
Child Dedication is simply the act of parents committing their child to the Lord. It is also a time of public declaration that they, with God’s help, will raise their child in the ways of the Lord. NB: Child Dedication is not baby Christaining or Baptism.
The Child Dedication segment is part of our regular service and requires the parents to bring their child to the front of the church at the appropriate time. We encourage siblings of the child to join in and we display a photo of your child on the screens so everyone can see (only first names are used).
If you are interested in your child being dedicated, please complete the Child Dedication Application Form, including uploading your child’s photo, by Friday May 16 so we can connect and provide relevant information.
Seniors Ministry | Wednesday 28th May 2025 | 1:30pm
The colours of the Kenyan flag are red/black/dark green. There is so much to learn, so come dressed in these colours to join in the fun. Prizes for best Male/Female hat!
Details:
- Time: 1.30pm – 4.00pm
- Where: 446 Centre Road, Berwick, Vic, 3806
- Bring: Please bring a packet of food for everyone to share
Writers Group | Saturday 31st May 2025 | 9:00am
Aspiring writers, published authors, and everyone in between—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 supportive community of like-minded individuals.
Whether you write poetry, short stories, essays, blog posts, 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 one another to reach new heights and unlock our full potential as storytellers.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be part of something special. Whether you’re just starting out or already have a few publications under your belt, we’d love to have you with us. Join us today and let your creativity soar!
State Youth Games (SYG) | Friday 6th June - Monday 9th June 2025
Get ready for the ultimate June Long Weekend at State Youth Games – where youth and young adults from all over Victoria come together for an unforgettable experience of sport, art, community, and faith!
Pitch your tent, rally your friends, and dive into an epic mix of casual and competitive sports that’ll keep your adrenaline pumping. When the sun goes down, get swept up in powerful, high-energy worship that’ll shake the ground and lift your spirit.
Whether you go to compete, create, connect, or just camp under the stars, State Youth Games is whatever you make it. Don’t just hear about it – be part of it. Are you ready to go all in?
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
