Table of Contents
The truth of His Kingdom amidst violence
Wednesday 30th October 2024
‘From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subjected to violence, and violent people have been raiding it. ‘
Matthew 11:12 NIV
We are called to work towards God’s kingdom, bringing glimpses of His saving rule, justice, joy, and goodness into the world by being His presence in every place! This is possible because we stand on the foundation of the resurrection, knowing that the forces of darkness have been defeated and a new light has dawned. Throughout history, the church has known this calling and embraced the work of spreading the good news.This points to one truth: real and lasting change is possible and inevitable because of Jesus.
Let’s consider five key points that capture this hope:
- Firstly, the lordship of the risen Jesus means that true transformation can happen—personally, socially, and even globally. History is full of examples, from the abolition of slavery to countless personal stories of lives renewed by the gospel. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead can bring that same power to our lives and communities today.
- Secondly, real change comes at a cost. The forces that have long ruled the world will not give up without a fight. While the ultimate victory was won on the cross, living out that victory often means enduring struggle and suffering. But Jesus prepared us for this, and the early church knew that God’s kingdom shines all the brighter through suffering.
- Thirdly, progress is never linear or smooth. It is unrealistic to expect that we move from “glory to glory” without setbacks. The history of the church shows both great victories and painful losses. Yet even in the face of challenges, we must remain vigilant, resisting complacency and distractions that could derail us.
- Fourthly, we must avoid falling into gloom or despair when the road is tough. While we know that God’s final kingdom will come in its fullness later, the real and lasting changes we see now are a preview of what’s to come. Just like the spies who brought back grapes from the Promised Land, the positive changes we experience today are a foretaste of God’s ultimate reality.
- Finally, we must press on, working tirelessly for transformation in our lives, communities, and the world. When we declare “Jesus is Lord,” we are not simply making a hopeful statement—we declare a truth that changes everything. God’s new creation began with the resurrection, and we are part of it. As we follow Jesus and pray for the Spirit to guide us, we bring new life wherever we go. Yes, there will be setbacks and suffering, and the full results of our work may not be seen in our lifetime, but, the good news remains: something has happened that has forever changed the world, and we are called to be a part of it.
We are invited to be “Good News” people—renewed by the gospel, bringing healing, hope, and transformation to the world. This personal renewal is at the heart of the Good News, and as we live it out, we become instruments of God’s grace in the lives of others.
Pastoral Care & Life Groups
Pastoral Care
Are you in need of pastoral care? Sue Nicholls is available. Pastoral care is about connection, compassion, and understanding. Sue is dedicated to providing a safe space for you to express your feelings and be encouraged.
Feel free to reach out and contact Sue via email at [email protected].
Life Groups
Do life together and stay connected. No matter what stage of life you’re in, we have a Life Group for you. Life Groups provide the environment where you will build healthy relationships that aid your personal growth, feelings of acceptance, support, and connection within our church and the community.
If you would like to join a Life Group, speak to Arlo van Rhyn, Life Groups Ministry Leader. You can contact Arlo via email at [email protected].
Bringing Christmas to Life | Food Hamper Donations | Loving People
As Christmas approaches, we invite you to Love People and Serve Our City through our Bringing Christmas to Life initiative. This program is dedicated to supporting our Food Pantry clients to ensure that every household experiences the Spirit of Christmas. As part of this, we intend to provide a $100 food hamper to each household. Your contribution, no matter the amount, will help make a profound difference in someone’s life. Feel free to contribute to a hamper, multiple hampers, or even part of a hamper. There are three ways you can donate…
There are three ways you can donate.
- Online:
Account name: Berwick Church of Christ Inc.
BSB: 033 609.
Account number: 434168.
Reference: BCTL. - Eftpos: Visit The Desk on Sundays from 8:30am – 1:00pm or the office Mon-Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm
- Cash: Visit The Desk on Sundays from 8:30am – 1:00pm or the office Mon-Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm
Let us Love People and Serve our City together!
Another Transformed Life | Baptismal Testimony by Chede'
Hi, my name is Chede’ and recently I was baptised. This is my testimony of how God changed my life. On the 19th of December, 2023, I went to the Royal Children’s Hospital for back surgery because of Scoliosis. During surgery, there were some problems like nerve damage and paralysis from my hips to my toes. When I woke up in ICU, I was in extraordinary pain from the back surgery. I could not even sleep from all that pain. A doctor came in and said that I would never walk again. With all the prayers and hope, I started to wiggle my toes, and the doctor was surprised to see that. Day after day, I had more feeling in my legs. I started doing Physiotherapy and OT. I went from being bed ridden to wheelchair to walking stick to crutches, and then I began to walk by myself very slowly. With all the hopes and prayers, I was finally able to stroll by myself. That month, God changed my life and showed me how great and almighty He is and that He is always with us when we go through difficult times. He is a loving God!
Join our Fantastic Volunteer Team!
Fulfilling the vision and mission of Berwick Church of Christ is only made possible through the dedication and service of our wonderful volunteers. As we have grown, so too has the need for more volunteers. Volunteering is a fun and rewarding way to meet new friends and make a difference and we need your support in the following areas…
- Worship – Musicians and Sound Technicians
- Kids Church – Sign-in, Safety, and Room Team
- Playgroup
- Food Pantry – Set up Team
Ready to jump on board? Click the link and complete the Volunteers Application Form.
Thank you for being a part of our community. We can’t wait to see you make an impact!
Kids Church | Sunday 3rd November | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds | Burning Bush | Exodus 3:1-18; 6:11; Psalm 118:7
5 to 12-year-olds | Every Good and Perfect Gift is from God| James 1:17a
Sunday Service | 3rd November | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
MythBusters – God will never give you more than you can handle
Join us for the final message in our series, “MythBusters”! We’ll dive into the world of common spiritual legends, misconceptions and assumptions that many in the Christian community hold as truth. THis week, we’ll unpack this specific myth, explore its origins, and illuminate the powerful biblical truths that counter these misunderstandings. Strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding, and be encouraged with a richer understanding of Scripture. Join us for this adventure!
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 3rd November | 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.
Pastor Mat Daniel's Farewell | Sunday 10th November | 12:45pm
As many of you know, our beloved Pastor Mat will soon be embarking on a new chapter in his ministry journey. We are incredibly grateful for his 19 years of dedication and ministry to our congregation.
We want to honour him with a financial gift to assist in the transition to the next season. If you would like to contribute to this gift, please use the following bank account details, and you can use this link until the 10th of November, 2024. Should you prefer to give in person to Mat, please do so!
- Account name: Berwick Church of Christ Inc.
- BSB: 033 609
- Account number: 434168
- Reference: Mat love offering
Note that the deadline for contributing to the financial gift is Sunday, 10th of November 2024, at 5 pm to ensure it goes into Pastor’s Mat’s last pay.
Thank you for joining us in honouring Pastor Mat!
- Room: Auditorium
- Date: 10th November 2024
- Time: 12:45 pm
International Justice Mission Australia Freedom Sunday | Sunday 10th November | 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Millions of people around the world are at risk every day of violence – crimes like slavery, trafficking, violence against women and children and police abuse of power. Join us for a critical awareness evening as we welcome International Justice Mission (IJM) representatives. Together, we’ll explore their vital mission in 16 countries working alongside local justice officials, community partners, advocates, survivors and inviting people like you to help us stop slavery and violence. IJM is on a mission to partner with local communities to build a more just world where everyone can expect to be safe and protected. Join us for this significant event. NB: This event is only suitable for people aged 16+.
International Justice Mission (IJM) will also share their heartfelt message at our morning services (9 am and 11 am). NB: Parents – due to the sensitive content of this message it may not be appropriate for children aged 2-12 years to be in the service. We recommend you sign your children into Kids Church which is running for both services.
Mental Health Support Gathering | Tuesday 12th November | 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 Tuesday evening 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 13th November | 1:30 pm
John McCleary is a Christian singer who will share his testimony with us. Come and be blessed as we hear about the change that Jesus has brought to his life.
Child Dedication | Sunday 17th November | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Child Dedication is the acknowledgment that not only are children a gift from God, but they are His children. It is essentially placing your child into God’s hands, trusting his guidance in parenting and declaring you will endeavour to raise your child in the ways of the Lord.
Child Dedication 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 like to display a photo of your child on the monitor so everyone can see.
If you are interested in your child being dedicated, please complete the Child Dedication Application Form and we will be in touch to make arrangements and invite you to a brief meeting to explain the details of the service.
Y&Y Service | Gabby Conlon | Sunday 17th November | 5:30 pm
Gabby Conlon is a passionate lover of Jesus, who walks intimately with the Holy Spirit. For many years Gabby has consistently pursued knowing more of who God is and has a strong passion to enable others to do the same. She is part of the leadership team of The School of Faith where she equips believers all over the world to walk with the Holy Spirit and know the word. Gabby enjoys providing opportunities for people to put into practice what they are learning through creative activations. Her own radical encounters are what propelled her to help others grow in their faith and go after `more of God’ that is so readily available. Be sure to join us in food and fellowship after the service. SEE YOU THERE!
Writers Group | Saturday 30th November | 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!
Young Families | Camping Weekend | Friday 21st February 2025
Calling all camping families – kids of any age are welcome!
Get ready for a weekend of making unforgettable memories! We invite you to join us from February 21st (Friday) to February 23rd (Sunday) 2025, for the Young Families Camping Weekend at Warburton. Strengthening the bonds between your family and others is our main priority!
Enjoy crisp, fresh air, surrounded by stunning nature and a sense of freedom, watch children play around the campsite, enjoy the fantastic free Water Park and paddle in the Warburton River. Warburton has plenty of cafes, and Redwood Forest has fantastic walking and cycling trails and is great fun for photos.
At night, get ready for cosy campfires, where we’ll swap stories, roast marshmallows, and enjoy fellowship.
We are staying at the Warburton Holiday Park. Camping is loads of fun (and much easier with a group), but you are welcome to book a cabin if you prefer.
So gather your adventurous spirit, pack your sense of humour, and join us for this amazing weekend. Come and embrace the great outdoors with us!
Please mark your calendars and book soon because our Young Families Camping Weekend awaits and the good sites and cabins go quickly!
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
