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 December 31, 2025 to January 4, 2026!
1. Happy New Year: BSBC Celebrates 212th Anniversary
2. Sunday Services Update
3. Annual Report 2025 Call for Submissions
4. Midweek Fellowship: January 6
5. Christmas Giving Goal 2025
6. Candlelight Service of Christmas Music Recap
7. Financial Update 2025
8. Starting Local Going Global 2025 Christmas Campaign Update
9. Little Lambs Play Group: January 2026
10. 2026 Offering Envelopes Are Ready!
11. Volunteering Opportunities
12. NextGen Ministry (Children/Youth)
13. Fresh Start Young Adults: Tuesdays
14. Adult Bible Studies and Prayer Groups
15. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: January 4
16. Pastoral Care
17. BSBC Office Holiday Hours
18. Church Center Directory
19. Bereavement
20. Community Events
21. This Week @ BSBC
1. Happy New Year! BSBC Celebrates 212th Anniversary
From January 1, 1814, to present day, from our origins in the Fredericton Baptist Church (the only Baptist Church in the Fredericton area) to our current Brunswick Street Baptist Church, we praise God for His faithfulness through these last 212 years!
We also thank you for your continued attendance, generosity and support. To God be the glory!
2. Sunday Services Udpate
This past Sunday during the service, Pastor Ross was sharing thoughts and vision regarding the future of our Sunday services at BSBC. We have much to be thankful for in our wonderful Church community.
One fantastic problem we are currently facing is that we are often at capacity within our Contemporary Service in the Gymnasium. We are at the stage where families are questioning whether there will be seating for their family before children leave for their groups and, I am sure you will agree, this is a problem we absolutely need to solve! As was shared during the service, our Church Leadership are looking ahead at the coming year and how we can best steward this blessing of numerical growth. This will likely involve trialing different service set ups, possibly the sharing of space in the Sanctuary. At this point we have no definite conclusions on the way ahead, and the reason it was approached during a Sunday service is because we are open to the thoughts and suggestions of our congregations.
Recognizing the time of year, if you missed the service on Sunday, the link to the service is below so that you can get up to speed! To go directly to Ross’s message, scroll to 48:17.
8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. – 1 Peter 4: 8 – 11
As a congregation, on Sunday we created a list of our non-negotiables and foundational values as we engage with this process together, all of which can be seen in the service video.
May we be faithful, loving and led by the Spirit as we work through how to steward well the blessings we have received!
Every Blessing,
Rev. Ross Watters
3. Annual Report 2025 Call for Submissions
We are rapidly bringing a close to 2025 and are looking forward to 2026. Specifically, we are looking for reports from all Board, Committees, and Teams for the Annual Report 2025. We need to have the Annual Report compiled, edited, revised, (and edited again!) printed and ready to send for binding by February 1, 2026.
To that end, the deadline for submissions for the Annual Report is Tuesday, January 6, 2025. Please submit your reports to the church office, via email, to naomi.phillips@bsbc.nb.ca.
Thank you for participating in this way. If you have any questions or concerns, or for more information, please contact the church office.
4. Midweek Fellowship: January 6th
You are warmly invited to join us for a midweek fellowship time where we will gather to grow as disciples of Jesus. Together, we seek to place Christ at the center of our lives as we learn and practice the core elements of Christian discipleship: engaging deeply with the Word of God, strengthening our lives of prayer, building authentic fellowship, growing in witness, learning to walk with the Holy Spirit, and expressing our faith through acts of love.
Come as you are to learn, to practice, and to walk together in following Christ.
Coffee, tea and treats will be available.
We look forward to seeing you all attend!
Charlie Ritchie
5. Christmas Giving Goal 2025
Dear Church Family,
As we celebrate this season of hope, would you prayerfully consider including a special gift to our church as part of your Christmas giving? Your generosity will help us finish the year in a strong financial position, enabling us to continue being a “Hope-Filled” church, sharing God’s love with our community and beyond.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
Together, we rejoice in the ways God is at work among us and look forward to His continued blessings in 2026 as we pray, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done.”
How to Give:
Place your gift in the offering boxes located on the welcome tables.
Drop your gift off at the Church Office.
Use the debit machine in the Connections Centre.
Send an e-transfer to giving@bsbc.nb.ca.
To ensure your gift is receipted for 2025, please:
Drop your envelope marked “Christmas Giving Goal” in the offering box during worship on Sunday, Dec. 28.
Bring your gift to the Church Office by noon on Wednesday, Dec. 31.
Send your e-transfer by 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 31.
To date, we’ve received $4,530 toward our Christmas Giving Goal of $9,000, and we’re encouraged to see how God will work through your support in the weeks ahead.
Thank you for partnering with us to sustain and grow the ministry God has entrusted to us in Fredericton and beyond.
6. Candlelight Service of Christmas Music Recap
A huge thank you to David & Leah Steeves, Gloria Tranquilla, and all our musicians and volunteers for a beautiful Candlelight Service of Christmas Music on Sunday, December 21.
This year’s theme, “Love Came Down at Christmas,” was shared through meaningful music, Scripture, and readings.
Thank you for your generosity in the freewill offering—$1,171.10 was raised in support of The Fredericton Homeless Shelters.
7. 2025 Financial Countdown
May God bless you, as you continue to support the ministries at Brunswick Street.
Ken Reimer, Treasurer
8. Starting Local Going Global 2025 Christmas Campaign Update
A huge thank you to our church family for yet again coming through with generous giving to support both our local community through Christmas giving and our global Christmas project!
The Starting Local total to December 29 is $12,075.00. This covers the costs of the gifts for our New Life families who celebrated as a group last week and for a Christmas gift for each of our December Third Sunday Supper guests who enjoyed a Christmas meal this past Sunday evening. Any funds in excess of our costs for these gifts will be divided between our “local” ministries to help cover some of their costs through the year. These include our regular New Life ministry and our BSBC Benevolent fund which ministers to urgent financial needs of many connected to our church.
In addition, $12,375.00 has come in to date for Going Global which will be sent through our Canadian Baptist Ministries national office, to support ministries in South Sudan.
Thank you to all who have given to our Christmas campaign!
God is so good.
BSBC Social Action Team and Mission Committee
9. Little Lambs Play Group: January 2026
Little Lambs Play Group starts in the new year, on January 14, for parents and caregivers and their little ones. We are offering a weekly gathering on Wednesday mornings.
Join us for a relaxed and welcoming group time for parents or caregivers, and their little ones to connect, play, and build community. This weekly gathering is designed for babies and toddlers alongside their parents or caregivers and offers unstructured play time for children and meaningful connection for adults.
Each week will include free play for little ones, opportunities for parents and caregivers to get to know one another, and a chance to slow down and enjoy the moment together. Snacks will be provided for all, along with coffee and tea for parents and caregivers.
This is a drop-in group, so come when you’re able, whether you are a few minutes late or have to leave early for nap time. No registration is required, but we would love to know of your interest so we can prepare snacks accordingly.
When: Weekly on Wednesdays, 10:00 to 11:30 am
Dates: January 14 to February 25, 2026
Where: Nursery, 1st Floor, FLC, Brunswick Street Baptist Church, (161 York Street, Fredericton, NB)
Who: Parents and caregivers with babies and toddlers of preschool age
Whether you’re looking for community, conversation, or introducing your child to community play, we would love to welcome you. Contact Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca for more information.
10. 2026 Offering Envelopes Are Ready!
New boxes of envelopes will be available for pickup in the Connections Centre on Sunday, January 4, before and after the services.
If you do not give online and would like to have a box of envelopes to donate by cheque, please speak to Laura McGuire. This is for those who give their offerings by envelope and does not apply to electronic giving.
If you would prefer to pick up your envelopes during the week from the church office, please contact Laura McGuire at laura.mcguire@bsbc.nb.ca and arrangements will be made.
Thank you for your willingness to give.
Laura McGuire
BSBC Financial Secretary
11. Volunteering Opportunities
A. Sunday Streets Muffin Ministry: January 9
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 January 9 for our Sunday night outreach program. As we prepare for the busy winter 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”. You can place the labeled muffins in the upright freezer in the main kitchen. Don’t forget to include your name and the delivery date for which you signed up.
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. Scouting Boys
Our Scouting Boys ministry is 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.
C. Security Volunteers Needed
We’re seeking dedicated volunteers to help keep our church safe and welcoming on weekday evenings from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. 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.
D. Third Sunday Supper Volunteers
The Third Sunday Supper Ministry team would like to say thank you to all the volunteers who prepared a meal for us in 2025. We appreciate it very much and the ministry would not be a success without you!
We are now trying to fill our monthly slots for 2026 and have the following months available: March, September, November and December. Please prayerfully consider preparing a meal for our guests one of those months. Our stipend has increased to $250.00, double that for December, to help with the rising costs of food. Please contact Judy Thompson at 506-238-9903 or email judypaul1088@gmail.com.
12. NextGen Ministry (Children & Youth)
Children @ BSBC
KidzTown and Preschool | Sundays | 10:45 to 11:45 am
Kids! Join us Sunday morning in the worship services. Be sure to sign in before the service starts. 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 | Classes Resume Sunday, January 11, 2026 | 9:30 to 10:15 am
Sunday School classes resume on Sunday, January 11, 2026. This is an intentional time for all those from pre-kindergarten to 18 years old to grow deeper in their understanding of the Bible.
Scouting Boys | Resumes Wednesday, January 7, 2026 | 6:00 to 9:00 pm
Scouting Boys will resume on January 7, 2026. 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.
Little Lambs Play Group: January 2026
Little Lambs Play Group starts in the new year, on January 14, for parents and caregivers and their little ones. We are offering a weekly gathering on Wednesday mornings.
Join us for a relaxed and welcoming group time for parents or caregivers, and their little ones to connect, play, and build community. This weekly gathering is designed for babies and toddlers alongside their parents or caregivers and offers unstructured play time for children and meaningful connection for adults.
Each week will include free play for little ones, opportunities for parents and caregivers to get to know one another, and a chance to slow down and enjoy the moment together. Snacks will be provided for all, along with coffee and tea for parents and caregivers.
This is a drop-in group, so come when you’re able, whether you are a few minutes late or have to leave early for nap time. No registration is required, but we would love to know of your interest so we can prepare snacks accordingly.
When: Weekly on Wednesdays, 10:00 to 11:30 am
Dates: January 14 to February 25, 2026
Where: Nursery, 1st Floor, FLC, Brunswick Street Baptist Church, (161 York Street, Fredericton, NB)
Who: Parents and caregivers with babies and toddlers of preschool age
Whether you’re looking for community, conversation, or introducing your child to community play, we would love to welcome you. Contact Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca for more information.
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
We will resume our Youth Thursdays in January 2026 so stay tuned for more information. Merry Christmas to you all and have a happy new year!
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! On the third floor we host a supper time, Bible study and our youth group time to end the day.
Greenhouse Band Practice | Resumes in 2026
Greenhouse Band Practice resumes in January 2026. If you want to learn more about the Greenhouse band, please contact Julianne at julianne.d.moore@gmail.com.
Youth Ladies Monthly Small Group Opportunity: 2026
Starting in the new year, Pastor Nikki will be hosting a small group opportunity for our young ladies grades 6 to 12. This will be an intentional group where we will be meeting on a monthly basis and have a study and fellowship time.
This time is intended to help you group to grow deeper together, relationally, and spiritually. It requires a reading commitment and a monthly attendance during the school year, with the possibility of meeting over the summer months as well. This is not a typical youth group, but one for ladies that wish to grow deeper in faith and relationship together.
If you would like to be a part of this group, please pray about it and reach out to Pastor Nikki for more information.
13. Fresh Start Young Adults: Resumes January 6
Fresh Start Young Adults will resume on Tuesday, January 6, 2025. Our first session will be hosted by Faith Louis at her residence.
Our Young Adults ministry, Fresh Start, meets on Tuesdays, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. 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.
14. 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.
15. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: January 4
This Sunday, we will be celebrating at the Lord’s Table.
In the sanctuary, the worship team will be led by Gloria Tranquilla and David Steeves. In the gym, the worship team will be led by Allie Dunfield.
Pastor Ross Watters will be preaching in the both the gym and the sanctuary. Of this sermon, he says; “As we move into 2026, we find ourselves moving into Brunswick Street Baptist Church's 212-year anniversary! Throughout that history there have been many changes, transitions, successes and struggles, yet in the midst of all of it by God's grace, we have seen His goodness at work in the life of our Church and the wider community of Fredericton. This Sunday we will take time to think through transitions, legacy and the consistent transformative power of the Gospel and Spirit of God through it all, as well as asking the question of what is the legacy God is leading through our own lives. Looking forward to seeing you Sunday!”.
Whether in-person or online, be sure to join us this Sunday morning at 10:30 am.
16. Pastoral Care 2025
Your Deacons want to affirm that BSBC is equipped to provide Pastoral Care. We are grateful for the engagement of Rev. Ross and Pastor Nikki. We are blessed to have additional support from Rev. Kevin Culberson, sanctuary Ministry Coordinator and the Baptist Chaplin at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital and Doug McAllister, our Benevolent Coordinator and Senior’s Visitation Pastor. We are equally blessed to have Cheryl Gibson and Roz Thompson, our Parish Nurses.
Here are some suggested approaches:
Hospitalizations
Your pastors will only know of hospitalizations if the church office or individual pastors are contacted directly
We’d appreciate you notifying the office if you know of the hospitalization of a member of the BSBC family
Critical Incident
If a pastor is needed in an emergency situation, between Monday to Friday, 8:30 am and 4 pm, please contact the church office
Outside of office hours, please contact a pastor directly
Bereavement
Rev. Ross and Rev. Kevin will be available to support families at a time of loss, to conduct funeral and committal services
Contact the church office during office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4 pm
Outside of office hours, please contact a pastor directly
We have provided McAdams, Bishops, and York Funeral Homes with the contact information for both Rev. Ross and Rev. Kevin
If you are not a member of a bereaved family but know of a death within the BSBC family, please contact the church office to make sure your pastors are aware of the need
Parish Nurses
The parish nursing ministry is intended to support and strengthen the spiritual, physical and emotional well-being of individuals, families, and the congregation at BSBC. Roz Thompson and Cheryl Gibson, your parish nurses, collaborate with members of the pastoral team promoting health and faith, to facilitate the healing of the body, mind, and spirit. The parish nurses are available to provide prayer and support for physical, mental, and spiritual health challenges.
Contact Details
Church Office
506-458-8348
naomi.phillips@bsbc.nb.ca
bsbc@bsbc.nb.ca
Rev. Ross Watters, Lead Pastor
506-282-3443
ross@bsbc.nb.ca
Rev. Kevin Culberson, Sanctuary Worship Leader and Pastoral Care Provider
506-260-6240
culberson.kevin@gmail.com
Pastor Nikki Leftley, Next Generation Pastor
506-282-1075
nikki@bsbc.nb.ca
Doug McAllister, Benevolent Ministry Coordinator and Seniors Visitation Pastor
506-440-4023
doug.mcallister@bsbc.nb.ca
Roz Thompson, Parish Nurse
506-457-2787
tawsky@gmail.com
Cheryl Gibson, Parish Nurse
506-454-6657
cheryl.gibson@unb.ca
Please pray for our pastoral care team as they seek to partner with you in caring for the BSBC family.
Your Board of Deacons
17. BSBC Office Holiday Hours
Please take note of our office hours for this festive season!
18. 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.
19. Bereavement
Please be in prayer for the family of Guy Dunfield on his passing. Please be in prayer for his wife, Betty, and their children, Joan and Nancy. Guy was brother and brother-in-law to Vaughn & Shirley Dunfield. Please pray for peace and comfort for all as they navigate through this.
20. Community Events
Wilmot United Church: Part Time Office Administration Position
This employment position is a part-time (2 days per week) for a 6-month contract which is renewable, to commence late January 2026. There may be some flexibility on the days and hours of work. The position could change going forward with added time and responsibilities. The main area of responsibilities will be a focus on internal and external communication for Wilmot United.
Tasks /Responsibilities:
• Producing and distributing weekly e-announcements
• Weekly church bulletin for Sunday worship services
• Communication and office support for Minister, other staff, and Volunteers or Committees
• Social Media communication and Website management
Qualifications:
• Advanced computer and social media knowledge and skills
• Able to work in a busy work environment with interruptions, an initiator and independent worker
• Excellent interpersonal skills
For more information, please contact judycoates@rogers.com.
21. This Week at BSBC
Wednesday, December 31
New Year’s Eve – Church Offices Close at 12:00 noon
Thursday, January 1
New Year’s Day – Church Offices are Closed
Friday, January 2
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:00 Gym Band Set-Up (Gym)
7:00 Mandarin Fellowship (Barnabas Center)
Saturday, January 3
9:30 Hand Bell Practice (Sanctuary)
Sunday, January 4
9:00 Chinese Worship Practice (Barnabas Centre)
9:00 Learning English with the Bible (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
9:30 Coffee and Fellowship (Connection Centre)
9:30 Together in Prayer (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
10:30 Chinese Worship Service (Barnabas Centre)
10:30 Gym Worship Service (Gym)
10:30 Sanctuary Worship Service (Sanctuary)
10:45 KidzTown Classes (2nd Floor, FLC)
10:45 Preschool Classes (1st Floor, FLC)
11:30 Library Open After Services (Connections Centre)
12:00 Chinese Sunday Lunch (Barnabas Centre)
1:00 Chinese Choir Practice (Barnabas Centre)
Monday, January 5
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:00 Autism Connection Tee Golf Program (Fellowship Hall, Basement, Gym Building)
6:30 Social Action Team (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
7:00 Missions Committee (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Tuesday, January 6
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, 2nd Floor, FLC)
5:30 Basketball Ministry (Gym)
7:00 Midweek Fellowship (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
7:00 Fresh Start (Offsite)
Wednesday, January 7
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
6:00 Scouting Boys (Gym, Fellowship Hall, Basement, Gym Building)
6:15 Greenhouse Band Practice (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
6:30 Choir Practice (Sanctuary, Choir Room, 2nd Floor, Connection Center)
