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 January 21 to 28, 2026!
1. Welcoming Winter Weather
2. Greenhouse Service: January 25
3. The Fredericton Christian Men’s Retreat 2026
4. Midweek Fellowship
5. Senior Games Winter Gathering: Wednesdays
6. GriefShare Starts This Week: January 22
7. Volunteering Opportunities
8. NextGen Ministry (Children/Youth)
9. Fresh Start Young Adults: Tuesdays
10. Adult Bible Studies and Prayer Groups
11. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: January 25
12. Pastoral Care
13. Church Center Directory
14. Bereavement
15. Community Events
16. This Week @ BSBC
1. Welcoming Winter Weather
Welcome to winter! In the interest of keeping everyone safe, when the weather might be less than perfect, you can count on us to let you know if morning services, ministries, or the church offices are closed due to inclement weather. We will send out an email to our newsletter distribution list by 8:00 am. At 3:00 pm, we will send out an email update noting whether programs and events will be cancelled for the evening.
As always, if you feel the roads are unsafe, please use your best judgement. If you are ever unsure, please contact your ministry leader or the church office at 506-458-8348. To be added to our newsletter distribution list, please contact the church office.
Thank you and stay safe!
BSBC Leadership Team
2. Greenhouse Service | This Sunday | 10:30 am
Join this Sunday, January 25th as the youth gather together for our youth specific Greenhouse service! Those in grade 6 to 12 are welcome, we look forward to you joining us!
3. The Fredericton Christian Men’s Retreat 2026
ALL men are encouraged to attend this year’s Fredericton Christian Men’s Retreat. This year’s retreat theme is “Listen”, and we’re thrilled to welcome Peter Beckwith as our theme speaker. He will challenge and inspire us in learning how to listen to God focusing on Psalm 23.
Expect a weekend filled with great teaching, meaningful worship, good food, and lots of laughs—plus time to relax, reconnect, and build friendships.
And as a special highlight, Pastor Ross will be one of our storytellers this year! It is always a wonderful time of fellowship, learning and encouragement. You won’t want to miss his session.
When: February 6 to 8, 2026
Where: Circle Square Snider Mountain Ranch
Theme: Listen
Registration forms are available at the Connection Centre or electronically by contacting Graeme Powell by phone (506-663-5436) or by email (gmgraemepowell@gmail.com)
The cost is $270.00 (plus $10 for the optional Friday night dinner). If cost is of concern, sponsorships are available.
For more information, please speak to Doug Ashfield, Don Burdon, Charlie Colwell, Adam Fowler, David McMath, Scott Myles, Graeme Powell, Ron Smith, or Roddy Thompson.
4. Midweek Fellowship
You are warmly invited to join us for a midweek fellowship time, Tuesdays at 7:00 pm, 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. Senior Games Winter Gathering: Wednesdays
Seniors are warmly invited to join us each Wednesday afternoon from 1:30 to 3:00 pm for a relaxed time of games, conversation, laughs, and light refreshments.
Whether you love puzzles, cards, board games, or simply sitting with friends over a cup of tea—there’s a place for you!
Come for the fun, stay for the fellowship, we can’t wait to spend Wednesday afternoons together!
6. GriefShare Starts This Week: January 22
GriefShare will begin on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm in the Family Room of the Family Life Centre at Brunswick Street Baptist Church.
This 13-week program offers a Christian-based video series on grief and recovery as well as support group discussions, providing a comforting and safe space for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one.
For details and registration, please call 506-458-8348.
7. Volunteering Opportunities
A. Sunday Streets Muffin Ministry: February 1
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 February 1 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: Volunteers Needed for 2026
We are now trying to fill our monthly slots for 2026 and have the following months available: 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.
8. 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. 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 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 to 10:15 am
Sunday School classes are available Sundays from 9:30 to 10:15 am. This is an intentional time for all those from pre-kindergarten to 18 years old to grow deeper in their understanding of the Bible. There is coffee time offered for our adults, as well as Together in Prayer group in the family room.
Scouting Boys | 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.
Little Lambs Play Group | Wednesdays | 10:00 am
Parents, caregivers, and little ones are invited to join us Wednesday mornings for a relaxed time of play and connection.
Babies and toddlers can enjoy free play while adults build community, slow down, and share life together. Snacks, coffee, and tea are provided.
This is a drop-in program—come when you can, stay as long as you’re able. No registration required, though letting us know you’re coming helps us plan snacks.
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)
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.
Hands – In Ministry | Wednesday, January 21 | 6:00 to 7:30 pm
We are calling all elementary-aged girls to join us tonight, Wednesday, January 21, 6:00 to 7:30 pm for our once-a-month girl's ministry Hands-In. Join us for fun, crafts, games, friends, and learning about Jesus. If you are interested in this program don't hesitate to get in touch with Allie at, ali.dee@rogers.com 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
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. This week we will be clue night! Bring your detective skills and be ready to solve the mystery! All are welcome!
Greenhouse Band Practice | Tonight | 6:15 to 7:00 pm
On Wednesdays we offer a practice for Greenhouse band, an opportunity to grow their skills on instruments or vocals in a worship team setting. We’ll also be training students to run the soundboard and work with sound equipment. It’s a fun and encouraging time of learning, growing, and worshipping together!
Come join us, Wednesdays 6:15 to 7:00 pm. If you want to learn more, please contact Julianne at julianne.d.moore@gmail.com.
Greenhouse Service | This Sunday, January 25 | 10:30 am
Join this Sunday, January 25th as the youth gather together for our youth specific Greenhouse service! Those in grade 6 to 12 are welcome, we look forward to you joining us!
Youth Gatherings Coming up:
January 22: Youth Thursdays: Clue Night
January 25: Greenhouse Service (10:30 am)
January 29: Youth Thursdays: Karaoke Night
February 5: Youth Thursdays: Misheard, Misunderstood, Mission Impossible
9. Fresh Start Young Adults | Tuesdays | 7:00 to 9:00 pm
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.
10. 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.
11. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: January 25
This Sunday is Greenhouse Sunday! All youth grades 6 to 12 are invited to our greenhouse youth worship service on the 3rd of the Family Life Center.
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 Jon Wilton.
Dr. Keith Bodner will be preaching in the gym. Of this sermon, he says; “Our 2026 New Year’s short series on growth commenced last time with the parable of the growing seed, suggesting that the Holy Spirit produces measurable growth in our lives combined with the certainty of a harvest. The series continues this week with a study of Luke 13:6-9, set in the context of the ‘travel narrative’ in Luke 9-19 where Jesus is bound for Jerusalem to suffer and rise on our behalf. Leading up to chapter 13, there are a number of conversations along the way, including dialogue with some ‘doom scrollers’ who bring up recent current events. In response, Jesus tells a powerful story about a fig tree that does not bear fruit, and the owner of the vineyard has little choice but to cut it down. Often in the Old Testament, ‘cutting down a tree’ is a sign of impending judgement. However, in this parable there is a surprising development, and we will emphasize a number of important applications for our lives as we consider the parable of the fig tree.”
Pastor Ross Watters will be preaching in the sanctuary. Of his sermon, he says, “As Archbishop George Carey said, ‘Christianity is always one generation away from extinction’. As we continue our Sermon series on 'Signs of Life' this week we move into the theme of 'Reproduction'. An imperative on the church always is that we are sharing the Good News and Living out the Great Commission. After all, as we are told in Romans 10, ‘How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’ Join us this Sunday in the Gym as we work through what it means for our lives to bear fruit and for people to see, experience, hear and respond to the Good News through the Holy Spirit at work in our lives.”
Whether in-person or online, be sure to join us this Sunday morning at 10:30 am.
12. Pastoral Care 2026
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 Chaplain 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
Pastor Changbin Tian, Pastor to Chinese Congregation
506-897-5885
cbtian@gmail.com
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
13. 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: https://thestreetonline.churchcenter.com/login?return=https://thestreetonline.churchcenter.com/directory/people
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.
14. Bereavement
Christine Taylor
The family of Christine Grace Taylor announces her passing on January 4, 2026, at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton after a struggle with Lewey Body Dementia.
She was a member of First Baptist Church in Charlottetown and Brunswick Street Baptist Church in Fredericton and used her voice to lift praise to God through her participation in the choirs and as a soloist for many years.
She is survived by Dennis, her husband of 55 years; daughter, Krista Sifton (Andrew); son, Steven (Meredith Cooper); brothers, Darryl and Clifford; sister, Deborah Zwicker (Barry); and grandchildren, Connor, Kathryn, and Michael Sifton, and Jack and Aidan Taylor; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; sister-in-law, Cathy Peck; brother-in-law, Gregory Taylor; and nephew, Allan Taylor.
Per her wishes there will be neither funeral nor visitation.
For those who wish, donations in Christine's memory may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.
15. Community Events
UNB Diabetic Walking Study
Do you or someone you love have Type 2 Diabetes?
The Andrew and Marjorie McCain Human Performance Laboratory (HPL) at UNB is looking for participants - both with and without type 2 diabetes - to take part in a walking study!
We are studying how Type 2 Diabetes (with and without diabetic neuropathy) affects the way people walk - to better understand how to support mobility, independence, and quality of life for those living with diabetes.
If you or a loved one has type 2 diabetes, we’d love to hear from you! If you don't have diabetes but want to support research, you're welcome to participate as well.
Email bgoodyea@unb.ca or tap “Contact Us” to learn more!
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity PSA
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is available during the week from January 18-25, 2026. The Theme for 2026 is “There is One Body and One Spirit, just as you are called to the One Hope of your calling.” An Ecumenical Service will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 2:00 pm at St. Margaret’s Anglican Church, 775 Forest Hill Road, Fredericton. All are welcome, men and women. Refreshments and Fellowship after the service.
Contact Information: Mary McMahon (506-478-4080).
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah Heustis,
Publicity for the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Fredericton
16. This Week at BSBC
Wednesday, January 21
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
10:00 Little Lambs Play Group (Nursery, 1st Floor, FLC)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
1:30 Seniors Games Afternoon (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
5:15 Church Community Potluck (Gym, Main Kitchen)
6:00 Hands-In Girls Ministry (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
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, Connections Centre)
Thursday, January 22
7:00 Men’s Prayer Breakfast (Gym)
7:00 Women’s Prayer Breakfast (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
9:00 Benevolent Ministries (Meeting Room, 1st Floor, Gym Building)
9:30 New Life Program (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor 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 Thursday (2nd Floor, 3rd Floor, FLC, Gym Building, Sanctuary)
6:30 Ladies Evening Bible Study (Under the Sea Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
6:30 GriefShare (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
Friday, January 23
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
5:00 Gym Band Set-Up (Gym)
7:00 Mandarin Fellowship (Barnabas Centre)
Saturday, January 24
9:30 Hand Bell Practice (Sanctuary)
Sunday, January 25
9:00 Chinese Worship Practice (Barnabas Centre)
9:00 Kids Sing Rehearsal (Choir Room, 2nd Floor, Connection Centre)
9:00 Learning English with the Bible (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
9:30 Coffee and Fellowship (Connections Centre)
9:30 Sunday School for Preschool, Kids and Youth (FLC)
9:30 Together in Prayer (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
10:30 Chinese Worship Service (Barnabas Centre)
10:30 Greenhouse Service (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
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)
12:00 Membership Interview Meeting (Meeting Room, 1st Floor, Gym Building)
1:00 Chinese Choir Practice (Barnabas Centre)
2:00 “Our Church” Ministry (Boardroom, 2nd Floor, Gym Building)
Monday, January 26
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
6:30 Girl Guides (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
7:00 Board of Deacons (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
Tuesday, January 27
10:00 Pastoral Staff Meeting (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
11:15 Full Staff Meeting (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)
12:15 Quilters Lunch Meeting (Quilting Room, 2nd Floor, Connection Center)
1:30 Quilters for Missions (Quilting Room, 2nd Floor, FLC)
5:00 Multicultural Association (Main Kitchen, Gym Building)
5:30 Basketball Ministry (Gym)
6:00 Kids Sing Rehearsal (Choir Room, 2nd Floor, Connection Center)
7:00 Midweek Fellowship (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)
7:00 Fresh Start (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)
Wednesday, January 28
10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)
10:00 Little Lambs Play Group (Nursery, 1st Floor, FLC)
12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)
1:00 Seniors Games Afternoon (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)
5:15 Church Community Potluck (Gym, Main Kitchen)
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, Connections Centre)
