The Newsletter
Our Mission
Experience the Love of Jesus. Live it Out Everywhere.
Making a submission to our weekly Newsletter?
Submissions for our weekly newsletter should be sent to
sam.essel@bsbc.nb.ca
The deadline for inclusion in Wednesday’s edition is 11:00 am the Monday prior.
In this issue:
Check out what’s happening the week of October 29 to November 5, 2025!
1. Missions Month and Celebration Luncheon: November 2
2. Name Tags November: Starting November 2
3. BSBC Choir Reunion: November 1
4. GHLC Farewell for Stephen Alward: November 1
5. Daylight Savings Time Change: November 2
6. Reducing The Risk Training: November 9
7. Volunteering Opportunities
8. Celebrating Baptisms
9. Trunk or Treat Recap
10. NextGen Ministry (Children/Youth)
11. Fresh Start Young Adults: Tuesdays
12. Adult Bible Studies and Prayer Groups
13. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: November 2
14. Pastoral Care
15. Church Center Directory
16. Bereavement
17. Community Events
18. This Week @ BSBC
1. Missions Month: Now until November 2
This Sunday, November 2, will be the last Sunday for our Missions Month theme and will be led by our Missions Committee here at BSBC. We will take time to focus on the theme of mission found in the Bible as laid out in Acts 1:8, focusing on mission here at home and abroad, concluding in a final blended Celebration Service.
Here is a look at our themes for our Missions Month Sundays:
Oct. 12 – Local
Oct. 19 – Regional
Oct. 26 – International
Nov. 2 – Celebrating our Diversity of Nations and Cultures
On Sunday, November 2, we will have a combined worship service in the sanctuary. Following the service, everyone is warmly invited to join us in the gym for a time of fellowship and food. Please bring a finger food or dessert to share. If you enjoy cooking international dishes (non-local cuisine), we’d love for you to bring something with that theme to celebrate the diversity of our community!
Important Notes:
No dishes requiring heating or refrigeration, please — the kitchen will be in use after communion.
Let’s keep it simple, delicious, and easy to enjoy!
If you would like to participate, please contact the BSBC Missions Committee by emailing joeltrail@gmail.com.
We look forward to sharing this special time together. See you there!
2. Name Tag November: Starting November 2
Starting this Sunday, we’re excited to bring back Name Tag November at BSBC! This fun and meaningful tradition helps us strengthen our church community by learning (or re-learning) each other’s names and building connections.
Throughout November, we invite everyone, newcomers and long-time members alike, to wear a name tag each Sunday. When you arrive, simply stop by the entrance and ask one of our ushers or greeters for your personalized name tag.
3. BSBC Choir Reunion: November 1
The BSBC Church Choir is excited to host a special Reunion Gathering for all current and former Sanctuary Choir members and their significant others!
Join us this Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm in the Assembly Area on the Third Floor of the Family Life Centre for an afternoon of fellowship, light refreshments, a short program, plenty of reminiscing, and reconnecting with those past and present who are involved in this Music Ministry.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate the joy of music ministry together.
We hope you’ll plan to attend!
4. GHLC Farewell for Stephen Alward: November 1
You’re invited to an Open House and Farewell Party for Stephen Alward, longtime director of Green Hill Lake Camp.
For decades, Stephen has poured his heart into this ministry — shaping lives, building faith, and creating a place where thousands of young people have encountered the love of Christ. His leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting legacy not only at the camp, but in the hearts of all who’ve served and grown under his care.
This gathering is a chance to say thank you, share memories, and celebrate the incredible impact Stephen has made. Whether you’re a camper, staff member, volunteer, or friend of the camp, we’d love for you to join us in honoring his faithful service. The Open House will be at the camp on Saturday, November 1 from 2:00 to 4:30 pm, with a special presentation in the chapel starting at 3:00 pm.
Come help us celebrate Stephen’s incredible legacy and years of faithful leadership.
5. Daylight Savings Time Change: November 2
It’s that time of year again! Daylight Savings Time ends this weekend, so don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour before you go to bed on Saturday night.
Enjoy that extra hour of sleep and be sure to arrive right on time for Sunday morning service! We look forward to worshipping together as we step into a new season (with a little more daylight in the mornings!).
6. Reducing The Risk Training: November 9
On Sunday, November 9, Pastor Nikki & John Stewart will be hosting a session of our Reducing The Risk training for those who serve with the vulnerable population in our church’s ministries. Our training will be happening after worship services at 12:00 noon in KidzTown.
If you have not completed this training and are currently serving or wish to serve with ministries offered to children, youth or adults, please join us on November 9. There will be light refreshments, so please let Pastor Nikki know that you will be attending.
PVSCRC
Please note: we are in the process of updating our leader and volunteer database, checking for expiry dates for Police Vulnerable Sector Criminal Reference Check (PVSCRC) which need to be updated every 3 years. If your PVSCRC has expired or is nearing expiration you will be receiving an email from Pastor Nikki letting you know that a request letter has been printed and placed in the mail slot in the Connection Centre. Once you’ve received your letter you can take it to the police station and request a new PVSCRC. When you receive your new PVSCRC please drop it off at the church office. Thank you for giving your time and energy to our programs and ministries at BSBC. We appreciate you.
7. Volunteering Opportunities
A. Sunday Streets Muffin Ministry: November 23
On behalf of our brothers and sisters who make a weekly evening trek around the city to visit those sleeping rough, and the members of your Social Action Team, thank you ‘muffin makers’ for your faithfulness serving in this way. Your sweet generosity is more than just baked goods; it’s an expression of care and hope in Jesus’ name.
Our Street Ministry team need muffins as soon as November 23 for our Sunday night outreach program. As we prepare for the busy summer months, we aim to have 4 dozen muffins each week to ensure we’re well-stocked and ready to bless those we serve. If you are able to help in this way, please place 12 muffins, individually wrapped, in a large zipper locked bag, and label the bag “Street Ministry”. Don’t forget to include your name and the delivery date for which you signed up. You can place the labeled muffins in the upright freezer in the main kitchen.
Please click the link below or call the church office (506-458-8348) and our admin team will be pleased to do the online registration for you. Jesus spoke of offering cups of cold water in his name. Muffins, we believe, offer the same opportunity to bless others for Him.
B. Security Volunteers Needed
Towards the fall we’re seeking dedicated volunteers to help keep our church safe and welcoming on weekday evenings from 6:00 to 9:00 pm starting in September. Your presence makes a real difference — creating a warm, secure space where everyone feels at home. If you’re ready to step up and be part of this vital ministry, reach out to Dan Lutes or call the church office at 506-458-8348 to learn more or sign up.
C. Tellers Needed
Are you a member of BSBC and looking for a simple yet meaningful way to serve?
We are looking for volunteers to join our Teller Team. This role involves helping count cash, cheques, and debit offerings after the Sunday morning service for just two months a year (about six months apart, such as February and August). The time commitment is about one hour each time, and you’ll be working alongside a small, friendly team.
If you’re interested or have any questions, please contact Andrea Bragdon, Chair of the Nominating Committee, at 506-292-3568 or andreabragdon9@gmail.com
D. Third Sunday Supper Volunteers
We are still looking for an individual, family, or group to prepare a meal for our December Supper (December 21). We would be appreciative if you would prayerfully consider helping us on this date.
Looking ahead, we are also planning for 2026 and have many months available for volunteers to provide a meal for our guests. If you would like to learn more or are interested in help with Third Sunday Supper, please reach out to Judy Thompson at 506-238-9903 or email judypaul1088@gmail.com.
E. Welcoming With Warmth — Join our Ushering and Greeting Teams
Every Sunday, the first smiles and handshakes at Brunswick Street Baptist Church come from our Ushers and Greeting Team. These dedicated volunteers set the tone for worship by creating a welcoming atmosphere by greeting members and guests, offering guidance, answering questions, and helping with seating, making BSBC a place where everyone feels they belong.
We are deeply thankful for their servant hearts and faithful presence each week.
If you feel called to be part of this important ministry, we would love to hear from you! Training and support are provided, and you’ll be joining a team that makes a real difference in people’s experience of worship.
If you’re interested and want more information to volunteer in the greeting team in the gym, please connect with Andrea Bragdon at her email: andreabragdon@rogers.com
If you’re interested and want more information to volunteer in the greeting team in the sanctuary, please connect with Stephen VanSlyke the usher chair at his email vanslyke@unb.ca.
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
– Romans 15:7
8. Celebrating Baptisms
Last Sunday, October 26, after service we were able to witness and celebrate the baptisms of three of our church family, Sam Essel, Angela Cameron, and Daniel Steacy. Please uphold them in prayer and encouragement as they continue to walk in their faith.
9. Trunk or Treat Recap
Last Sunday, October 26th, the BSBC parking lot transformed into a festive wonderland for our 5th Annual Trunk or Treat and wow, what a blast it was!
Over 155 visitors joined the fun — that's a whole lot of costumes, candy, and community! Our trunks were decked out in creative themes that ranged from cute, to silly, to heartwarming. Games galore kept kids (and grown-ups!) laughing, playing, and winning treats all afternoon.
Whether you were tossing balls, pulling strings, making baskets, or scoring goals, this event was a fantastic outreach opportunity and a joyful way to connect with our neighbors.
Thanks to everyone who decorated, volunteered, and came out to celebrate. Thank you for providing such joy to the outward community!
Want to relive the fun or share your favorite moment? Drop your pics or stories — we’d love to see them! Ready to start planning next year’s Trunk or Treat? Because we already are!
10. NextGen Ministry (Children & Youth)
Children @ BSBC
KidzTown and Preschool | Sundays | 10:45 to 11:30 am
Kids! Join us Sunday morning in the worship services. At 10:45 am, our KidzTown and Preschool leaders will collect children from the gym, stop in at the Connections Centre to collect children from the sanctuary and take them to their designated program areas. Preschool children will be taken to the nursery and children from Kindergarten to Grade 5 will be taken to the second floor for KidzTown Ministries during the church service (10:45 to 11:30 am). Our children will enjoy a time of teaching, games, worship, and crafts. For more information, please reach out to Sam Essel at sam.essel@bsbc.nb.ca.
Sunday School | Sundays | 9:30 am to 10:15 am
We offer Sunday school on Sundays before service from 9:30 am to 10:15 am. There is a place for all those from pre-kindergarten to 18 years old! This is an intentional time for kids and youth to grow deeper in their understanding of the Bible.
Scouts | Wednesdays | 6:00 to 9:00 pm
This program offers fun activities with an emphasis on outdoor adventure and community service projects, in a Christ-centered environment.
From 6:00 to 7:30 pm, the regular meeting for boys ages 5 to 10 years, starts in Fellowship Hall, and finishes in the gym. From 7:30 to 9:00 pm, the regular meeting for boys ages 11 to 14 years, starts in the gym.
Our group is also in need of leaders. Dads, young adults or high school students who are interested in joining our leadership team can contact Dale Wilson at wilsondaletreefarm@gmail.com.
Trunk or Treat | Thank you
Thank you to all who served and came out to Trunk or Treat this year! It was a success! What an amazing time of seeing the community around BSBC represented! It was such a blessing.
Youth @ BSBC
To keep up to date with what’s happen for BSBC’s youth, email Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca to be included in our weekly parent email!
Youth Thursdays | At BSBC | 4:45 to 8:00 pm
Come to what you can!
4:45 pm – Doors Open @ BSBC
5:00 to 5:30 pm – Supper Together (provided)
5:30 to 6:15 pm – Bible Study
6:15 to 8:00 pm – Halloween Party
Come for the whole evening or just the parts that work for you. All students in Grades 6 to 12 are welcome—bring a friend! This Thursday, we will be joining together at the church for supper and Bible Study, then our Halloween Party! Come dressed up, ready to hangout, and play games!
Let Pastor Nikki know if you will be with us for supper and have any dietary restrictions so we can prepare for you!
Questions? Contact Pastor Nikki for more info. We can’t wait to see you there!
NO Greenhouse Band Practice | Wednesday, October 29
We will not be gathering this Wednesday for Greenhouse Band practice. Youth are welcome to join back for practice again on Wednesday November 5th. If you want to learn more please contact Julianne at julianne.d.moore@gmail.com.
Youth Gatherings Coming Up:
October 30: Youth Thursdays: Halloween Party (4:45 to 8:00 pm)
November 5: What if we Prayed Shirt Campaign
November 6: Painting Night
November 13: Full Church Games
November 20: Crack the Code night
11. Fresh Start Young Adults: Tuesdays
Our Young Adults ministry, Fresh Start, will meet on Tuesdays, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm, on the 3rd floor of the Family Life Center. Come along for some fun, snacks and social time followed by a Bible study. We would love to see you there!
For more information, please contact Rev. Ross at ross@bsbc.nb.ca.
12. Adult Bible Studies
There is so much going on at our Church that sometimes it is hard to keep track! To help ease your calendar preparation, here is a brief list of current Bible studies and prayer groups that we have on offer:
For more details on these or other programs, please visit our website at our website.
13. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: November 2
In the Sanctuary, we will have a blended worship style with special music ministry.
For the culmination of Missions Month, we will join together in the sanctuary with a blended worship service and special Music Ministry. We will also celebrate at the Lord’s Table.
This Sunday is Week Four of our Missions Month with a focus on Celebrating our Diversity of Nations and Cultures. Dr. Keith Bodner will be preaching and of his sermon titled “Mission Impossible” he says “On this climactic Sunday of “Missions Month,” perhaps it is a wise idea to briefly step back and evaluate, because it was a daunting task assigned to the early disciples: they were commissioned to go to the ends of the earth, without any fancy degrees or influential backers. If they had paused to consider the worldly chances of their success, they would surely conclude that this was a Mission Impossible! So, how did they succeed, and as we study Acts 1:4-8 and its surrounding context, are there any points of application for all of us at Brunswick Street today as we consider our own mission field?”
Following the service, everyone is warmly invited to join us in the gym for a time of fellowship and food. Please bring a finger food or dessert to share. If you enjoy cooking international dishes (non-local cuisine), we’d love for you to bring something with that theme to celebrate the diversity of our community!
Whether in-person or online, be sure to join us this Sunday morning at 10:30 am.
14. Pastoral Care
Your Deacons want to affirm that BSBC is equipped to provide Pastoral Care. We are grateful for our pastors, Rev. Ross and Pastor Nikki, and we are blessed to have additional support from Doug McAllister, our Benevolent Coordinator and Senior’s Visitation Pastor and Rev. Kevin Culberson, our Sanctuary Ministry Coordinator and the Baptist Chaplain at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital.
Here are some suggested approaches:
15. Church Center Directory
Hello BSBC Family,
We hope this message finds you well! We want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support and patience as we work to improve how we stay connected as a church community.
We’re excited to share that BSBC is now using a new online congregational directory that we hope will be more user-friendly and accessible for everyone. This updated directory will serve as a combined contact list and include our official list of Members – both Resident and Non-Resident – as well as Adherents and Guests.
To join the directory, each family member must contact Naomi in the church office at Naomi.Phillips@bsbc.nb.ca to receive their welcome email and get started.
Thank you for hanging in with us as we navigate this shift. We truly appreciate your grace and flexibility as we move toward a more connected future.
Blessings,
BSBC Church Office
Join Our Online Church Center Directory Instructions:
Step 1: Contact the Church Office to get the Welcome Email
Step 2: Download the Church Center App
On iPhone/iPad: Go to the App Store, search for Church Center, and tap Download.
On Android: Go to the Google Play Store, search for Church Center, and tap Install.
Alternatively, you can access Church Center via a web browser on your laptop/computer at: www.churchcenter.com
Step 3: Locate Your Church (BSBC)
Open the app or website.
Tap Get Started.
Use the search bar to find your church by name, city, or zip/postal code.
Select BSBC from the list.
Step 4: Log In (Passwordless Login)
Church Center uses a secure, passwordless login method.
You can log in using either your phone number or email address.
Note: Users under 13 years old cannot log in. If your birthdate is incorrect, contact your church administrator.
Step 5: Enter Your Contact Info
Type your phone number or tap Use email address instead.
Tap Next.
Step 6: Enter the Verification Code
Check your text messages or email for a 6-digit code.
Paste the code into the app or browser.
Tap Next.
Step 7: Confirm Your Identity
Make sure your name appears on the welcome screen.
Tap Log In.
If your church doesn’t recognize your contact info, or you tap Not you?, you’ll be asked to add your name to complete your profile.
Step 8: Stay Logged In
On the mobile app, you’ll stay logged in unless inactive for 90 days.
On the web browser, you’ll stay logged in unless inactive for 14 days.
Optional: Log Out
To log out, go to your profile/settings in the app or browser and tap Log Out.
16. Bereavement
Our prayers go out Wayne and family on the passing of Lera Beers. Lera was a radiant soul whose strength and grace touched everyone who knew her. A true survivor, Lera faced a 15-year battle with cancer with unwavering courage and dignity. She taught us the profound lesson of how to live fully while facing life’s greatest challenges—choosing joy, faith, and love over despair.
Lera’s beauty was not only in her smile or her kindness, but in the way she gave of herself. As a long-time member of Brunswick Street Baptist Church, she dedicated countless hours to the Benevolent Committee, faithfully managing its finances and serving with compassion. Her commitment extended to the BSBC Auxiliary, where her presence was a source of warmth and encouragement. She was a woman of quiet strength, deep faith, and generous spirit. Her legacy is one of service, resilience, and love. Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate the life she lived and the light she brought into our lives.
We will miss her dearly—her beautiful soul, her gentle wisdom, and the grace with which she walked through this world.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Brunswick Street Baptist Church on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 11:00 am. A full obituary will be shared when it is available.
17. Community Events
What if We Prayed? Shirt Campaign: November 6
On November 6th, we are launching this city-wide evangelism effort encouraging youth across Fredericton to wear the same shirt that has “Philippians 4:6-7” on the front and “What if we Prayed?” with a massive QR code on their back. Due to an incredible donor all these shirts are FREE, and this vision is coming to life.
When scanned it will lead to www.whatifweprayed.ca. Monthly follow-up dates will continue this movement. We’re starting with 400 shirts, praying they’re all worn that day.
L’Arche Fredericton’s 2025 Fall Fundraising Dinner | November 8 | 5 to 6 pm | Greener Village
Support L’Arche Fredericton’s 2025 Fall Fundraising Dinner. Tickets are $100 for 2 persons. The deadline to order is Nov 4 at 12:00 noon. Please include your name, phone number, and email in the e-transfer to receive your official tax receipt.
This is a drive-through dinner for two at home and includes a melt-in-your-mouth lasagna (meat or vegetarian option available), garlic bread and Ceasar salad prepared by Chef Yves Dechaine, followed by novelty cookies baked by L’Arche members and Coburn’s fresh apple cider.
For ticket e-transfer or more information, contact larchefredericton@gmail.com.
Joy Community Banquet | November 16
Join us for an evening of celebration as we highlight what God is doing across our region through local ministries, churches, and the Joy 96.5 community.
What to expect:
Warm fellowship & a delicious meal
Inspiring stories + uplifting entertainment
Meet amazing community partners
Silent auction & opportunities to support Joy’s mission
Tickets:
$50 per person
$350 for a table of 8 (perfect for a group, team, or friends!)
Can’t make it?
You can still be part of the evening by:
Donating items to the auction
Sponsoring a table for a church or community partner
Click the link to reserve your spot or learn how you can get involved.
Thank you for being part of the Joy family—we can’t wait to see you on November 16!
Music UNB 2025-2026 Concert Series: Postcards | November 22 | 7:30 pm
Emily Kennedy and Steven Peacock offer Postcards, a program of 20th and 21st-century music for cello and classical guitar drawn from a number of European and New World traditions. On Sunday, November 2 at 7:30 pm at Memorial Hall, 9 Bailey Drive, Fredericton. You can find more information at the link below. Tickets on sale at the door are $30 Regular and $15 Students. Contact: 506-453-4697 or musicart@unb.ca.
18. This Week at BSBC
Wednesday, October 29
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:30 Community Potluck (Gym)
6:00 Scouting Boys (Gym, Fellowship Hall)
6:15 Greenhouse Band Practice (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Choir Practice (Sanctuary, Choir Room, 2nd Floor, Connections Centre)
Thursday, October 30
7:00 Men’s Prayer Breakfast (Gym, Main Kitchen)
7:00 Woman’s Prayer Breakfast (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
9:00 Benevolent Ministries (Pastor’s Office, Gym Building)
9:00 Days for Girls (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
9:30 New Life Program (Assembly Area and Café, 3rd Floor, FLC)
1:30 Ladies Afternoon Bible Study (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
1:30 Adult Bible Study (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
4:45 Youth Thursdays: Halloween Party (Main Kitchen, Gym, Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Ladies Evening Bible Study (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
6:30 GriefShare (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
Friday, October 31
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:00 Gym Band Setup (Gym)
7:00 Mandarin Fellowship (Barnabas Centre)
Saturday, November 1
9:30 Hand Bell Practice (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
11:00 Lera Beers Celebration of Life/Reception (Sanctuary, Gym, Main Kitchen)
1:00 BSBC Choir Reunion (Assembly Area/3rd Floor Café, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Sunday, November 2
9:00 Kids Sing (Choir Room, 2nd Floor, Connection Centre)
9:00 Learning English with the Bible (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
9:00 Mandarin Worship Practice (Barnabas Centre)
9:30 Coffee and Fellowship (Connection Centre)
9:30 Sunday School for Preschool, Kids and Youth (FLC)
9:30 Together in Prayer (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
10:30 Combined Worship Service (Sanctuary)
10:30 Mandarin Worship Service (Barnabas Centre)
10:45 KidzTown Classes (2nd Floor, FLC)
10:45 Preschool Classes (1st Floor, FLC)
11:30 Library Open After Services (Connections Centre)
11:45 Missions Month Celebration Lunch (Gym/Main Kitchen)
12:00 Deacons Sub-Committee Meeting (Counselling Room, 2nd Floor, , George St. side of Gym Building)
12:00 Nominating Committee (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
12:00 Mandarin Sunday Lunch (Barnabas Centre)
1:00 Mandarin Choir Practice (Barnabas Centre)
Monday, November 3
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:00 Autism Connections Tee Golf Program (Fellowship Hall, Basement, Gym Building)
6:00 Girl Guides – Sparks (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, Family Life Center)
6:30 Social Action Team (Family Room, 1st Floor, Connections Centre)
Tuesday, November 4
10:00 Pastoral Staff Meeting (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
11:15 Full Staff Meeting (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
1:30 Quilters for Missions (Quilting Room)
5:30 Basketball Ministry (Gym)
6:30 DivorceCare (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
7:00 Fresh Start (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Wednesday, November 5
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:30 Community Potluck (Gym)
6:00 Scouting Boys (Gym, Fellowship Hall)
6:15 Greenhouse Band Practice (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Choir Practice (Sanctuary, Choir Room, 2nd Floor, Connection Centre)
