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 April 22 to April 29, 2026!

1. SAT Refugee Sponsorship Update

2. SAT Update for Outfitting the Residence

3. Street Ministry: Urgent Request for Volunteers

4. BSBC Missions Partners: The Millette Family

5. 55+ Luncheon: April 27

6. CVITP Tax Clinics: Tuesdays 1:00 to 5:00 pm - Last Clinic April 28!

7. Watoto Children’s Choir: May 10

8. Atlantic Baptist Women InterMISSION Conference: May 22 to 24

9. Half Day Summer Camp “Rainforest Falls”: June 22 to 26

10. Supporting Ukraine Fundraiser: Thank you!

11. Volunteering Opportunities

12. NextGen Ministry (Children/Youth)

13. Fresh Start Young Adults: Tuesdays

14. Adult Bible Studies and Prayer Groups

15. Easter Offering: Goal Surpassed!

16. Financial Update

17. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: April 26

18. Service Structure Planning and Consultation Information

19. Pastoral Care

20. Invitation to the Church Center App

21. Church Center Directory

22. Bereavement

23. Community Events

24. This Week @ BSBC

1. SAT Refugee Sponsorship Update

As mentioned in the last few newsletters, we are imminently anticipating the long‑awaited arrival of the Syrian refugee family for whom we submitted a sponsorship application in 2023. Please see previous newsletters for details we have previously shared.

We are still waiting for travel arrangements for this family of six, but we need to prepare now, as we will potentially receive very short notice of their arrival. We are targeting June 1st to be ready for their arrival, but it could be weeks sooner or weeks later than that date.

We are looking for volunteers to take charge of different preparation and welcoming tasks. These are opportunities for you to use your gifts to provide this family with a fresh start. Some of the tasks are more organizational items and others are opportunities for you to connect and welcome them into our community. Note that the mother of the family has a sister with family settled as a refugee here in Fredericton, and although our arriving family speaks no English, the older daughter of the family already here will be able to help with language translation for communication.

The list below is not exclusive, but if you see something or a couple of things on the list that you want to help lead, please let us know as soon as possible. We have a few slots filled with leads, but we cannot do this without your help!

  • Find housing

  • Speak with utility companies for connection for utilities as required (electricity and internet)

  • Sheila Ross will be in charge of collecting apartment donations. Please let us know if you want to join her team.

  • Liz Smith will be in charge of donations of pantry staples to start the setup of their kitchen

  • Ron Smith will help out with the government paperwork like SIN, Medicare, taxes after they arrive

  • Help with setup for bank accounts and teaching some basic budgeting skills

  • Help with setup for cell phones for the adults (basic plans)

  • Help with bus schedules and teaching them to use the bus in Fredericton

  • Help with registering children for school (one high school, one kindergarten)

  • Help with registering the four adults for language testing and training at MCAF

  • Help with acquiring clothing and making sure they have everything they need when they arrive and making sure they are ready for seasonal changes through their first year (ex: coats, boots, summer/winter clothing).

  • Help with setting up dental and medical care as well as immunizations after they arrive

As you can see, the “To Do” list is long and many hands will help both spread the load out and give more opportunities for our church members to welcome this family and show them Christ's love through us. Please let us know how you are able to help.

We have collected a few household furnishings over the past couple of years but will be looking for many items over the next few weeks to set up their new home as they begin new lives here in Fredericton. Please keep an eye out for more newsletter articles with requests that you can help out with over the next few weeks.

We are thankful to share that, to date, a total of $34,432 has been donated to the refugee fund. Since our church voted at the 2022 Annual Business Meeting to pursue this sponsorship, more than $27,000 of that amount has been generously donated by you, our church family. We are deeply grateful for this support. However, the estimated costs to support this family for our one-year commitment are $52,300. We still need to raise at least $18,000 before the end of our one-year commitment. We have enough to cover their start up costs and the first few months of support, but the refugee fund needs your financial support to be able to cover the second half of their first year here. To donate, simply mark your giving with "Refugee Fund".

We look forward to continuing to share updates as travel plans are finalized, as well as opportunities for you to help, connect, and walk alongside this family as they begin their new life here.

If you have any questions about this sponsorship, please feel free to contact Martina Verboom at sk8martina@gmail.com.

2. SAT Update for Outfitting the Residence

We need your help!

We are starting to organize for the Syrian family that our church is sponsoring, and we need many things to outfit their new home. These items do not have to be brand new but should be in good condition.

Bedrooms:

3 single/twin beds

4 single/twin mattress protectors

1 double mattress protector

1 queen mattress protector

4 single/twin sheet sets

Living Room:

Lamps

End Tables

Coffee Table

Bathroom:

12 face cloths

12 hand towels

8 bath towels

2 bathmats

2 shower curtains and liners

Soap

Toilet paper

Kitchen/Dining Room:

Table and 6 chairs

Tablecloth

Pots, pans and frying pan

Cutlery

Grater and cooking utensils

Glasses

Casserole dishes

Baking pans and dishes

Mixing bowls

Platter and tray

Potholders

Measuring spoons and measuring cups

Blankets and spreads for all the beds

5 bedside tables

5 lamps

4 or 5 dressers

Clothes hangers

1 or 2 living room chairs (we have a sofa)

1 desk and chair

Kleenex

Broom and dustpan

Mop and pail

Garbage bags

Mirror

Laundry basket

Laundry soap

Hand mixer

Vacuum (if apartment is carpeted)

Kitchen garbage can

Knives and cutting board

Can opener

Dish soap

Dish cloths and towels

Paper towels

Ziploc baggies

Plastic wrap

Storage containers

Scissors

This is a very long list! However, if everybody could share a little bit, we can get it done. Thank you for considering this request! May God be honoured by your generous hearts.

If you can contribute in any way, please contact Sheila Ross by email at sheilaeross@hotmail.com or text or call 506-440-1048.

3. Street Ministry: Urgent Request for Volunteers

The Street Ministry is in urgent need of volunteers to help with our Sunday Streets ministry on Sunday afternoons/evenings from 4:00 to 8:00 pm.

We require four volunteers:

1) 1 driver with a van, ONE SHIFT per month

2) 1 driver with a van, ONE SHIFT per month

3) 1 person, ONE SHIFT per month

4) 1 person, ONE SHIFT per month

If you could assist or have further questions, please reach out directly to Rob Vance at robertdvance@hotmail.com or 506-206-4974.

Thank you for your consideration.

Social Action Team

4. BSBC Missions Partners: The Millette Family

The Millette Family are serving in Canada with SIM Canada and Sports Friends with a focus on equipping churches for Sports Ministry. Please keep Charles, Sarah, Lucie, Victoria, and Jospeh Millette in your prayers.

Their prayer requests as they embark on their journey are as follows:

  • Pray for ministry expansion in BC and Alberta.

  • Pray for churches to make the most of the upcoming World Cup to show love and hospitality to neighbors.

To donate to their efforts, please mark your offering “Millette Missions”. If you would like to receive updates on the Missions Ministry, please contact Charles Millette at charles.globetrotter@gmail.com.

5. 55+ Luncheon

On Monday, April 27, 2026, the 55+ Spring Luncheon will be held from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm in the BSBC gym!

On the menu you will enjoy a heaping helping of your choice of Creamy Corn Chowder, Maritime Seafood Chowder or Hearty Beef Barley Soup to go along with a selection of sandwiches including Ham and Cheese, Chicken Salad and Egg Salad! Dessert will be a Decadent Chocolate Brownie to be enjoyed with coffee and tea!

After lunch, David Whyte will take us on an exciting adventure Kayaking In Coastal Labrador!

No need to pre-register, just bring your appetite and come!

6. Community Volunteer Income Tax Program Clinics:

Tuesdays 1:00 to 5:00 pm | Final Clinic April 28

BSBC will be holding their final free income tax clinics under the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP). This is a free service to low and modest-income earners, including students and newcomers to Canada.

Our final tax clinic for 2026 will be on Tuesday, April 28 from 1:00 to 5:00 pm in the gym.

If you or someone you know could benefit from this free service, we will be happy to help.

Sincerely,

Shelley Pronk, 506 451-1097, pronk@nbnet.nb.ca

Ron Smith, 506 440-2199, varfor@gmail.com

7. Watoto Children’s Choir: May 10

We’re thrilled to share that the Watoto Children’s Choir from Uganda, East Africa will be with us on May 10 at 7:00 pm!

This powerful, joy‑filled musical experience is something you won’t want to miss. Come and be inspired, encouraged, and uplifted—bring your friends and family too.

8. Atlantic Baptist Women InterMISSION Conference: May 22 – 24

The Atlantic Baptist Women (ABW) are hosting InterMISSION, a three day women’s conference at Crandall University, Moncton, NB. The theme of interMISSION this spring is Deep Roots, Visible Fruit and is all about spiritual formation. Our theme verse is Colossians 2:7 "Let your roots grow down into him and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness." (NLT)

To register or to get more information, scan the QR on the poster or click the link to their website:

Early Registration: $57.00

After April 23: $67.00

No registrations (including campus meals or accommodations) accepted after May 4, 2026.

9. 2026 BSBC Half Day Summer Camp “Rainforest Fall” | June 22 – 26

Join us for our “Rainforest Falls” Half-Day Summer Camp as we get ready to have an unforgettable week filled with lots of fun, great learning experiences, and developing faith. From June 22 through 26, we invite elementary-aged children for a week packed with engaging activities, music, games, Bible lessons, crafts, and more in this year’s inspiring theme: “Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God”.

If you are interested in volunteering or if you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.

10. Supporting Ukraine Easter Sale: Thank you!

Dear BSBC Family,

We are so thankful to each one of you for supporting our Easter sale on Sunday, March 29. We were able to raise $1007.75 which is much more than we were hoping for. Ken Reimer will transfer these funds to Leleka this week.

Leleka is an American-Ukrainian charitable partnership of Leleka Foundation and Leleka-Ukraine, dedicated to helping medics in Ukraine save lives on the front lines. Leleka Foundation is a US-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 2014, and Charitable foundation Leleka-Ukraine whose mission is to help medics in Ukraine save lives on the front lines. From a grassroots fundraising effort to a fully operational system, Leleka Foundation has remained steadfast in its mission: to equip Ukraine’s frontline medics with the tools they need to save lives. For more information, please visit www.Leleka.care.

As we didn't take out any of our purchase costs, all monies we received will be spent on tactical medicine. These funds will equip one large backpack that contains 104 different supplies and will help stabilize and rescue 10 wounded defenders. This gift of life is the best thing we could get for Easter, thank you!

God is so good.

Julia & Sergiy

11. Volunteering Opportunities

B. Sunday Streets Muffin Ministry: May 31

A. Sunday Streets Ministry: Urgent Need of Volunteers

The Street Ministry is in urgent need of volunteers to help with our Sunday Streets ministry on Sunday afternoons/evenings from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. We require four volunteers: 2 drivers with vans for one shift each per month and 2 delivery personnel for one shift each per month.

If you could assist or have further questions, please reach out directly to Rob Vance at robertdvance@hotmail.com or 506-206-4974.

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 May 31 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.

C. Scouting Boys

Our Scouting Boys ministry needs Leaders. Dads, young adults, or high school students who are interested in joining our leadership team can contact Dale Wilson at wilsondaletreefarm@gmail.com.

D. 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 Mike Bech or call the church office at 506-458-8348 to learn more or sign up.

E. Third Sunday Supper: Volunteers Needed For November 2026

We are looking for someone or a group to prayerfully consider preparing a meal for our Third Sunday Supper guests in November 2026. A stipend of $250.00 is offered to help with the rising food costs. Please contact Judy Thompson at 506-238-9903 or email judypaul1088@gmail.com.

12. NextGen Ministry (Children & Youth)

Children @ BSBC

Sunday School | Sundays | 9:30 to 10:15 am

Sunday School classes April 12th, 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 in the Connections Centre offered for our adults, as well as the Together in Prayer group in the family room.

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.

Scouting Boys | Wednesdays | 6:00 to 9:00 pm

Join us tonight at 6:00 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.

2026 BSBC Half Day Summer Camp “Rainforest Fall” | June 22 – 26

Join us for “Rainforest Falls” Half-Day Summer Camp as we get ready to have an unforgettable week filled with lots of fun, great learning experiences, and developing faith. From June 22 through 26, we invite elementary-aged children for a week packed with engaging activities, music, games, Bible lessons, crafts, and more in this year’s inspiring theme: “Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God”.

If you are interested in volunteering or if you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.

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: Every Wednesday, 10:00 to 11:30 am

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.

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 for Dinner & Mactaquac for Family Hike | 4:45

On Thursday, we invite all youth and their families to join us for a BBQ supper at 4:45 pm. After supper, around 5:30 pm, we will be carpooling together to Mactaquac for our Family Hike. All students in Grades 6 to 12 and their families are welcome to join us and bring a friend! If possible, please let Pastor Nikki know your family is coming, so we can prepare food and ensure that we are all together for the hike!

The location for the hike will start in the parking lot off Moore Rd and Route 105. A photo of the location is below.

Greenhouse Band Practice | Tonight, April 22 | 6:15 to 7:15 pm

Join us this evening 6:15 to 7:15 pm for Greenhouse Band. We offer a band practice for youth in Grades 6 to 12. This is 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! If you want to learn more, please contact Julianne at julianne.d.moore@gmail.com.

Greenhouse Service | Sunday, April 26 | 10:30 am

Our next Greenhouse Service is on Sunday, April 26. Youth are invited to join us on the Third floor at 10:30 am. If you would like to help lead in Greenhouse, or would like to know more, please reach out to Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.

Youth Late Nighter | Thursday, April 30 | 4:45 to 10:30 pm

Calling all youth! Next Thursday, April 30, we have our Late Nighter - full of fun, food, games, and friends! All are welcome to come out! You will not want to miss this!

Middle School Girls Fellowship | Sunday, May 3 | 6:30 to 8:30 pm

Calling all middle school girls! You are invited on Sunday, May 3, at 6:30 pm for crafts, fellowship, and chatting about Jesus. If you would like to join us, please let Pastor Nikki know as soon as possible to prepare for you. If you want to know more about this gathering, please reach out!

ONE Conference | June 5 and 6

ONE Conference is our annual youth gathering, where churches from across the Maritimes come together in a cross-denominational worship environment. This past year, over 3,000 students in Grades 6–12 gathered to worship Jesus.

This year, ONE Conference will take place June 5–6 at the Moncton Coliseum. Here’s a snapshot of what the weekend looks like: we’ll leave Fredericton around 3:00 pm and head to Moncton to arrive in time for the start of the event. The first afternoon and evening kick off with the Fun Zone (featuring bouncy castles and large inflatables), followed by a high-energy worship service with engaging speakers. The night wraps up with a performance by rap artist Hulvey. After the evening concludes, we’ll head to Lower Coverdale Church for the night. The following day includes two main worship sessions, more time in the Fun Zone, and some free time before we head home around 5:00 pm.

For many Christian teens, ONE Conference is the highlight of the youth group year. It’s an incredible opportunity to worship alongside thousands of other students, hear from inspiring speakers, enjoy powerful worship music, and experience God in a fresh and meaningful way.

If you’d like to learn more, check out their website at www.onecon.ca. If you have any questions or want more details, feel free to reach out to me at youth.bsbc.nb@gmail.com.

Registration fees for ONE Conference is now $85.00 and the final day to register is May 1. If cost is an issue, please reach out to Pastor Nikki at nikki@bsbc.nb.ca.

Youth Gatherings Coming up:

April 23: Youth Thursdays! BBQ and Family Hike

April 26: Greenhouse Service

April 30: Youth Thursdays! Late Nighter

May 3: Middle School Girls Fellowship

May 7: Youth Thursdays!

May 14: Youth Thursdays!

May 17: NO Sunday School

May 21: Youth Thursdays!

May 28: Youth Thursdays!

May 31: Final Greenhouse Service

June 5/6: ONE Conference in Moncton

June 7: Grad Sunday and Church BBQ

13. 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.

14. Adult Bible Studies and Prayer Groups

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 www.thestreetonline.ca.

15. Easter Giving Goal Udpate

Thank you for making a special Easter financial gift this year as part of your celebration of the Lord's goodness. To date, we have raised $12,299 which is more than our target of $9,000 for Easter 2026!

I also want to thank you and pray that God would bless you for the generous regular weekly giving throughout the year that allows Brunswick Street to minister locally and beyond.

Blessings,

Ken Reimer, Treasurer

16. Financial Update to March 31

Thank you for your faithful giving to the Lord’s work here. We are looking forward to growth in our ministries in 2026 and toward having even greater impact in our community.

15. This Sunday’s Worship Gatherings: April 26

In the sanctuary, the worship team will be led by Gloria Tranquilla and David Steeves with special music by David Steeves and the Sanctuary Choir. In the gym, the worship team will be led by Sarah Hoyt.

Dr. Keith Bodner will be preaching in the gym. Of his sermon, he says: “Closer to the end of his career, perhaps after a period of dark discouragement, the apostle Paul wrote a letter to a group of believers whom he had never met, in a city where he probably never visited. In this letter he has some practical advice for anyone interested in shifting their mindset: the Colossian church is facing some struggles, but at a strategic point in the letter Paul advises that they realign their thinking patterns, ‘Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God’ (Colossians 3:1-3). What does it mean to set your mind on things above, and does this suggest an otherworldly escapism, or something more practical and attainable? Moreover, what does it mean that our lives are ‘hidden with Christ in God,’ and how might this make a real difference in our lives of discipleship today?”

Rev. Ross Watters will be preaching in the sanctuary. Of his sermon, he says: “As part of our ongoing series, 'Sacrifice', this week in the Sanctuary, we explore what it means to sacrifice our plans and trust God with the direction of our lives. Looking at Paul’s missionary journey in Acts 16:6–10, we’ll see how even the most faithful plans can be interrupted—and how those interruptions can lead to something far greater than we imagined. When doors close and direction feels uncertain, could it be that God is guiding us somewhere new? Join us as we reflect on how yielding our own ambitions to God can open the way for His purpose to unfold in our lives, if we remain faithful through the process.”

Whether in-person or online, be sure to join us this Sunday morning at 10:30 am.

18. Service Structure Planning and Consultation Information

Board of Deacons Subcommittee: Peter Cook, Andrew Culberson, Liz Smith, Stephen VanSlyke, & Pastor Ross Watters

Why A Change Now?

  • Capacity issues within the gym

  • Space for growth

  • An inviting space to allow new families to feel welcomed

  • Weekly set-up time & resources, inefficiencies/fatigue with getting sound right

  • Gym space setup is standard at 180 and most weeks there are limited seating options.

  • Parking on a Sunday morning often forces families to park and walk to BSBC.

  • We have engaged in two distinct worship services at BSBC for almost 20 years.

  • Maintaining current services is paramount within the shifts.

  • Deacons have prayerfully determined that maintaining and bolstering Sunday School is important moving forward.

  • Good Financial Stewardship

  • We need to use our current facilities and maximize the space God has provided to BSBC

Some Considerations

  • Unity in one church body

  • Engaged in 2 worship styles for over 20 years with adjustments

  • Services are deeply important

  • Financial stewardship (constraints)

  • Need to support both services with resources

  • Changes are significant and our culture can be deeply entrenched

Summary of Discussions & Collaboration

  • BOD discussions for more than 2 years

  • When calling an Associate Pastor, considered the connection between pastoral staff and service structures

  • December 2025 - Letter from a congregant was shared with the Deacons that clearly articulated the need for change and underscored the urgency

  • February 2026 - Deacons special meeting to develop possible options for service structure

  • Annual Meeting February 2026 - Chair of Deacons shared that there would be upcoming discussions around service structure

  • March 2026 - Consultation on potential changes

  • March 2026 – Today’s information meeting to share the plan for consultation and review as we create clear plans to implement change in September 2026

Goal to Have a Solution in Place for the Start of Fall Programming

  • Current plans involve a pilot (periodic review with the inclusion of a start date)

  • Using the sanctuary for both services at different times on a Sunday – referring to this as a ‘stacked’ model

  • Planning will be influenced by lead-up consultations with congregation stakeholder groups over the next few months

  • A fall start provides a runway for consultation and preparation

The Proposed Model

  • 2 services will be held in the sanctuary in a stacked format on a Sunday Morning

  • This requires both services to shift start and end times

  • Both worship services will remain distinct in their worship style

  • Keep Sunday School and work to bolster opportunities for connections between the two services

  • Use and maximize the current facilities with an openness to the potential of physical changes

Facilitate Multiple Small Group Consultation Listening Sessions

  • Sunday School teachers

  • Tech team members (both services)

  • Worship teams

  • Choir

  • Coffee ministry

  • Greeters/Ushers

  • Library

  • Others?

  • General congregation sessions to follow

Timeline

  • April - 3 virtual/in-person sessions & launch of email feedback

  • May - 3 virtual/in-person sessions

  • May (end) - Deacons will review the suggestions and data from the consultations

  • June - Follow-up with congregational meetings and information meetings (possibly on Sunday mornings)

  • Summer – Detailed planning

  • September - Launch

Questions & Brief Discussion

  • 15-20 minutes

  • 24-hour rule

  • Can repeat questions into the microphone

  • Questions focused on the principles, process, and perhaps consider groups that should be consulted

  • Points that suggest alternative thoughts & ideas will be steered toward feedback through the email address or small group or congregational feedback sessions

Feedback

To send your feedback to the Service Structure Planning and Consultation Subcommittee, please email:servicestructurefeedback@bsbc.nb.ca.

19. 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.

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 Kincaid, Next Generation Pastor

506-282-1075

nikki@bsbc.nb.ca

Pastor Changbin Tian, Pastor to the Chinese Congregation

506-897-5885

cbtian@gmail.com

Church Office

506-458-8348

naomi.phillips@bsbc.nb.ca or bsbc@bsbc.nb.ca

Doug McAllister, Benevolent Ministry Coordinator

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

20. Invitation to the Church Center App

We’re excited to introduce the Church Center App, a new way to stay connected and engaged with our BSBC community. Our hope is that this tool strengthens communication, simplifies involvement, and helps every member feel even more at home in our church family.

What You Can Do in the Church Center App

With the Church Center App in Planning Center, you’ll have quick access to features designed to keep you informed and connected:

  •  Weekly Newsletter – Read the latest updates, announcements, and upcoming opportunities.

  • Church Directory – Browse contact information for members who have chosen to share their details.

  • Profile Management – Update your personal information, household details, and privacy settings.

  • Event Calendar – Explore upcoming events and easily find locations.

  • Child Check-In – Pre-select your children for check-in before you arrive.

  • Special Events – Stay informed about major upcoming gatherings and celebrations.

  • Social Media Hub – Scroll to the bottom of the home page to find links to our YouTube services, Facebook community, and Instagram updates.

As we continue to grow, we look forward to adding even more helpful features. Moving toward the Church Center App also allows us to streamline our behind-the-scenes processes, making everything run more smoothly for everyone.

Getting Started

To download the app, you’ll need access to your Apple ID or Google Account information and password.

If you have any questions or need help getting set up, please reach out to Sam, Janet, or Naomi in the church office—we’re happy to help.

21. 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 from the BSBC Church Office.

22. Bereavement

Frank Hillman

Dear Praying Church Family, 

Please pray for the family of Frank Hillman, who passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026 at the Hotel-Dieu of St. Joseph Hospital, Perth-Andover, New Brunswick. 

Frank was a long-time member of BSBC. Pray for comfort as the family deals with this loss and rejoice in Frank’s faith in Jesus, as he is with his Lord and Saviour. 

Franklin was born in Woodstock, NB on July 24, 1928, to the late Fred Stephenson & Rachel (Lawrence) Hillman. Franklin was predeceased by his wife Jessie Hope (Robinson) on June 5, 2011. Franklin and Jessie were married in 1956. He was predeceased by his sister Doris (Marc) Martin, brother, Donald Hillman. He is survived by Brother Wendell (Nancy) Hillman of Fredericton, NB. Also, special niece Lucie Martin of Fredericton, NB and nephews Jonathan Hillman of Moncton, NB and Leroy Hillman of Perth-Andover, NB.

A Celebration of Life was held at BSBC on Friday, April 17, 2026 with Rev. Kevin Culberson officiating. Interment will be held in the spring at the Hillman Cemetery in Ritchie, NB. Funeral arrangements are in care of the Culberson Funeral Home.

23. Community Events

JOY NETWORK TURNS 25!

We first broadcasted on Easter weekend 2001 and this year we celebrate 25 years growing within this community! Our annual Share the Joy Week is April 20-24, and we are gearing up by asking for you to help us spread the word and launch us into this next season of unprecedented growth! We wouldn't exist without your vital ministries and congregations in our community!

To hear more about the history and impact of Joy over these last 25 years make sure to follow us on Facebook and tune in online!

GIBSON MEMORIAL UNITED CHURCH | TURKEY DINNER FUNDRAISER

Gibson Memorial United Church (183 Gibson St.) will be hosting a delicious Turkey Dinner on Thursday, April 23, from 4:15 to 6:00 p.m. The meal includes turkey with all the traditional fixings—potatoes, gravy, dressing, cranberry sauce, vegetables, a roll, pickles, coffee or tea, and homemade pie.

Tickets are $20 per person and reservations can be made. Please call 506-457-1951. Everyone is warmly welcome to come and enjoy a wonderful meal and community time together.

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL: PALMER MEMORIAL LECTURE

24. This Week at BSBC

Wednesday, April 22

10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)

10:00 Little Lambs Play Group (Nursery, 1st Floor, FLC)

12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)

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, Connection Centre)

Thursday, April 23

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)

9:00 Days for Girls (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)

9:00 Moving Forward Together Clinic (Gym)

9:30 New Life Ministry (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 Thursdays! BBQ and Family Hike (BSBC and Mactaquac)

6:30 Ladies Evening Bible Study (Under the Sea Room, 1st Floor, FLC)

6:30 GriefShare (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)

Friday, April 24

10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)

12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)

7:00 Mandarin Fellowship (Barnabas Centre)

Saturday, April 25

9:00 English Class Using the Bible (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)

3:00 Gym Set-Up (Gym)

Sunday, April 26

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 (Nursery/Preschool, KidzTown, 3rd Floor Classrooms, FLC)

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 (2nd Floor, KidzTown, FLC)

10:45 Preschool (1st Floor, Nursey, FLC)

11:30 Library Open After Services (Connections Centre)

12:00 Chinese Sunday Loving Lunch (Barnabas Centre)

1:00 Chinese Choir Practice (Barnabas Centre)

Monday, April 27

8:00 55+ Luncheon Setup (Gym)

10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)

12:00 55+ Luncheon (Gym)

4:00 Chinese Choir (Barnabas Centre)

6:00 Girl Guides (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)

6:30 Board of Deacons (Family Room, 1st Floor, FLC)

Tuesday, April 28

10:00 Pastoral Staff Meeting (Boardroom, 3rd Floor, FLC)

12:15 Quilters Lunch Meeting (Quilting Room, 2nd Floor, FLC)

1:00 CVITP Tax Clinic (Gym)

1:30 Quilters for Missions (Quilting Room, 2nd Floor, Connection Center)

5:00 Multicultural Association Youth Cooking Classes (Main Kitchen, Gym Building)

6:00 Sports Friends Basketball Ministry (Gym)

7:00 Midweek Fellowship (KidzTown, 2nd Floor, FLC)

7:00 Fresh Start (Assembly Area, 3rd Floor, FLC)

Wednesday, April 29

10:00 Ladies Exercise (Gym)

10:00 Little Lambs Play Group (Nursery, 1st Floor, FLC)

12:00 Men’s Basketball (Gym)

5:15 Church Community Potluck (Gym, Main Kitchen)

6:00 Scouting Boys (Gym, Fellowship Hall, Basement, Gym Building)

6:30 Choir Practice (Sanctuary, Choir Room, 2nd Floor, Connection Centre)