Table of Contents
When we gather…
Wednesday 10th April 2024
This coming Sunday, we will transition into a new season as BCOC, and our second Sunday service will be introduced permanently!
Corporate worship (the coming together of believers in a communal setting to honour and glorify God) holds essential significance for Christ’s Followers. It is a powerful testament to the unity and strength found in fellowship, and provides numerous benefits to individuals and the community.
Firstly, corporate worship fosters a sense of belonging and unity among believers. In Hebrews 10:24-25, it is written,
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as some do, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
Gathering together allows Christians to encourage and uplift one another, spurring each other on in their faith journey. In a world being pushed towards non-Christianity, our gatherings will significantly increase in importance!
Moreover, corporate worship allows believers to collectively express their gratitude and adoration towards God. Psalm 95:1-2 exclaims,
“Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!”
Through singing, praying, and praising together, Christians magnify God’s greatness and acknowledge His sovereignty over their lives. This powerfully reorders what we love and adore, placing God in His rightful position as the preeminent focus of our existence.
Additionally, corporate worship facilitates spiritual growth and edification. Ephesians 4:11-12 states,
“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.”
In a corporate setting, believers receive spiritual nourishment through preaching God’s Word and edifying one another through shared insights and experiences. When we come into corporate gathers, our experience will be transformed significantly as we come to “give” more than to “receive.” We transition from consumer to participant, which exponentially increases our growth as disciples.
Furthermore, corporate worship serves as a witness to the world of God’s transforming power. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16,
“In the same way, let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
As Christ Followers gather in worship, they reflect the love, joy, and unity found in Christ, drawing others to Him through their collective testimony. When a community gathers voluntarily for the edification of one another, it sends a very strong message to the world especially where people struggle to see beyond themselves and address the needs of those around them.
In conclusion, corporate worship is a vital aspect of the Christian journey, offering numerous benefits to individuals and the community. Through fellowship, praise, spiritual growth, and witness, believers unite to honour God and strengthen one another in faith. As we heed the biblical call to gather in worship, may we continue to experience the richness of God’s presence and the power of the Christian community. Come and be a conduit of His purposes. Invite people to engage with our gatherings. You’ll be surprised how much you will be transformed as you host friends and family at our worship services.
Exciting News from BCOC | Double Services start!
We’re thrilled to announce that double services will commence this Sunday, April 14th, 2024, at BCOC. As you maybe aware, due to the size of our growing faith community, we have reached capacity in seating, Kids Church and parking. The double services will enable access for people who are currently experiencing difficulty due to the limitations. The new services will allow you to share your worship experience with people in your sphere of influence. We hope this adjustment helps us continue to serve our community effectively.
Come early and enjoy a hot drink and fellowship. The Cafe will be open from 8.30 am – 9:00 am and then again from 10.15 am – 11:00 am.
We look forward to worshipping with you and embracing this growth together! Join us on Sunday, April 14th, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. Live stream will be available on YouTube and Facebook at 9:00 am.
People need connection! Opportunities for weekday ministry!
Are you interested in serving in a ministry that’s all about building connection and supporting families from our church and our local area?
Although Playgroup might sound as though it’s all about children, in reality, it is as much about supporting mums and grandmas who come. Some of these adults are lonely and looking for connection; or migrants with no family in Australia. Others have local family but for whatever reason don’t have much support from them.
We are currently seeking some extra child-free helpers in our Playgroup sessions. The main role is to interact with the mums, grandmas and children, with a few minor practical tasks like wiping tables or washing paintbrushes. The commitment is less than two hours on a regular weekday morning during school term. Is this role for you?
Are you interested but know you can’t commit every week because you like to get away during the school term? We’d rather have a helper with us most of the time than not at all, so please talk to me about your situation! Sue Nicholls, email [email protected] or phone 0403 822 324.
Food Pantry | 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
Guest Speaker - Tom Inglis | Sunday 14th April | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Join us for a morning of inspiration and insight as we welcome guest speaker Tom Inglis to speak on Worship. Tom is a renowned expert in the field, and his passion and knowledge are sure to captivate and inspire you all.
Pastor Tom Inglis experienced a remarkable move of God in South Africa as the worship leader in a church that grew from 80 to 10,000. He recorded a live album and DVD – ‘We are One’ with Integrity Music, and has performed concerts in many nations.
He is considered a pioneer in teaching worship as a way of life, and through his ministry of Psalmody International, has developed ‘worship lifestyle’ courses that local churches and bible schools have implemented in over 25 nations. He is the author of the book – ‘The Worshiping You’, a prophetic look at the role of worship in the end time church and his recent book ‘The Ministry of the Psalmist’, a must read for everyone involved in worship ministry in the local church.
Pastor Tom Inglis, together with his wife Barbara, are the founding pastors of Sydney Life Church, and are supported by his four children, who are all in some way serving the Lord. Come along and join us for a powerful and insightful morning!
Live stream will be available on YouTube and Facebook at 9:00 am.
Kids Church | Sunday 14th April | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds | Jesus says to tell others about Him | Matthew 28:18-20
5 to 12-year-olds | I just can’t wait! (Esau’s Impatience) | Genesis 25:24-34
YA Social | Sunday 14th April | 5:30 pm
Our next YA social is on this Sunday 14th April at 5:30 pm at church. We will be playing all kinds of games (including board games), so get ready for a great night! Also, bring $5 for dinner as well! Invites your mates and we will see you there.
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 14th April | 5:45 pm
The Men’s Prayer Group is a group of men who regularly meet to pray together. James 5:16 – speaks about the effect of fervent prayer and how it achieves great things! Come along and enjoy fellowship, worship, and prayer as men of faith gather to seek God for mighty breakthroughs.
Boys Brigade | Monday 15th April | 6:00 pm
For over 20 years, the Boys’ Brigade has advanced Christ’s Kingdom among boys. We provide a Christian community that supports boys and young men and assists in their Christian growth, physical development, and leadership training while teaching life skills. Come along and be part of the action!
ANCHORS | Grades 1 & 2: 6pm – 7:15pm
JUNIORS | Grades 3 – 6: 7pm – 8:30pm
SENIORS | Grades 7 to 18 years old: 7pm – 9.15pm
Baptism Class | Monday 15th April | 7:00 pm
Baptism is complete water immersion 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 find out more.
Growing To Maturity (GTM 1) Course | Commencing Tuesday 16th April | 7:00 pm
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
Mental Health Support Gathering | Tuesday 16th April | 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 and 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.
Alpha 8 Week Marriage Course | Commencing Wednesday 17th April | 7:00 pm
The 8 week Marriage Course is for married couples who are seeking to strengthen their relationship. Some married couples attend the course to intentionally invest in their relationship, others are looking to address more specific challenges. Either way, the course offers essential tools and practical ideas to help you build a relationship that lasts a lifetime.
The 8 week Marriage Course is based on Christian principles but designed for all married couples with or without a church background. The course will help you to:
- Understand each others needs
- Communicate more effectively
- Grow closer by learning methods to resolve conflict
- Recover from the ways you may have hurt each other
- Recognise how your upbringing affects your relationship
- Improve relationships with parents and in-laws
- Develop greater sexual intimacy
- Discover each others “love language” and much, much more….
Alpha Course | Commencing Wednesday 17th April | 7:00 pm
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.
Y&Y Service | Sunday 21st April | 5:30 pm
Hey, Youth and Young Adults! Our next Y&Y service is on the 21st of April!!!
Young Adults Leader, Jordan Smith, is coming to share what is on his heart regarding the YA space, so make sure you are there and bring your friends!
Jordan has been a part of the Berwick community for over five years now and is also involved in the youth ministry. Growing up in a family who was heavily involved in missions, has given Jordan a heart for people to come to know Christ and find a home in Him. Jordan is excited about what God has in store for the YA community and is keen to see God move in this service.
Be sure to join us in food and fellowship after the service. All youth, young adults and the young at heart are most welcome. SEE YOU THERE!
Exploring Partnership | Monday 22nd April | 7:00 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 leadership and we will talk 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.
Growing To Maturity (GTM 2) Course | Commencing Tuesday 23rd April | 7:00 pm
GTM 2 is aimed at developing deeper levels of intimacy and obedience to Christ and is an option for further growth 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 23rd April | 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
Seniors Ministry | Friendship Group | Wednesday 24th April | 1:30 pm
Lorraine Hughes will guide us through a fun afternoon. Come ready to play and win! Let your inner Olympian shine!
Baptism Celebration | Sunday 28th April | 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.
Young Families Picnic | Sunday 28th April | 11:00 am
Come along to the Old Cheese Factory with your picnic blanket and lunch and meet us near the playground. We look forward to gathering families with young children together for a chance to relax and get to know each other while watching children play.
Details
- Date: Sunday 28th April 2024
- Time: 11:00am – 2:00pm
- Where: Old Cheese Factory (34 Homestead Road Berwick)
- BYO: Picnic rug and lunch for your family
Writers Group | Saturday 4th May | 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!
Annual General Meeting | Sunday 5th May | 1:00 pm
This is an annual meeting where we gather with our partners to conclude items of business for the previous year. This meeting can be attended by non-partners (they do not hold voting rights, however) who have registered their attendance at the church office before the event.
We hold these meetings according to our constitution to
(a) confirm the minutes of the previous annual General Meeting and of any other General Meeting held since the previous annual General Meeting;
(b) to receive from the Board reports (including financial statements) on the activities of BCOC during the previous Financial Year;
(c) to confirm the appointment of Elders or the Senior Minister as required;
(d) to appoint an auditor for the following Financial Year; and
(e) do any other thing required to be done by the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 (Vic) at an annual General Meeting.
State Youth Games | Friday 7th June | 4:30 pm
SYG is a significant event that unites thousands of youth & young adults from across Victoria. We compete against each other in sport, eat (lots), make new friends, build community and get together for night rallies, where we see young people come to Jesus. It’s Epic. Learn more.
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
