Author: eddie

The Record – 1 February 2026

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 1 February 2026 at 10am

+ Communion Service (usually held on the first Sunday of the month). On this Sunday we bring non-perishable food items that are given to support needy people in our community.

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture Reading: Genesis 3: 1-13

+ Theme: Walking with God: First in our new series “Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter”

Order of Service

  • Call to worship
  • Song: Guide us O Thou Great Redeemer
  • Opening Prayer
  • Offering
  • Community News
  • Reading: Genesis 3:1-13
  • A moment of hiding
  • Song: Strong and Constant is Your Love.
  • Sermon
  • Communion
  • Song: Abide with me
  • Pastoral Prayers
  • Sung Benediction: May the feet of God go with you.

Community News

+ Our new ‘Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter” series commences this Sunday! Not only will this series follow the theme of ‘walking’ as we journey through Lent, it will also create opportunities for us to literally walk into Easter through a series of weekly walks being organised by various members of the church. Stay tuned for the details of these upcoming walks, commencing on the 22nd of February.

+ The Open Baptists Conference is being held at the Mt Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville, NSW on 12-14 June 2026. More information and registration details at Open Baptists.

+ The WellSpring Spirituality Centre based in Ashburton has a rich menu of events and resources to share in 2026. Learn more.

+ Have you noticed our church library in a room off the Barn. There are some good books in there like Kenneth Bailey’s ‘Poet and Peasant, and Through Peasant Eyes’ (studies on the parables of Jesus) and Bruce Turley’s ‘Being there for Others’ (a basic text to learn about doing pastoral care). If you have been inspired by a wonderful book, please donate it (one book per person) to the church library. Our library is for everyone.

+ Choir News: Carolyn Bunston is unable to lead the choir this year but a new choir conductor, Kylie Wagenvoort, will be present this Tuesday. New choir members are very welcome to attend.

Food for Thought

+ Bible scholars and theologians at Spurgeon’s College in England were miffed when a cook book put out by the College sold far more copies than their commentaries and biblical tomes. Simon Holt has been both a chef and a pastor and his blog Eating Heaven combines foody stories and theological insights. Now writing from Canberra, Simon provides this yummy Catalan Teacake recipe and reminds us that “taste and memory are so often connected.”

+ Maggi Dawn revisits the Parable of the Sower in ‘Doing Nothing for God,’ MaggiDawn’s Substack, 28 January 2026.

+ Barbara Brown Taylor offers her reflection on the Parable of the Sower in ‘The Automatic Earth,’ Coming Down to Earth with Barbara Brown Taylor, 28 January 2026.

Coming Soon:

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

+ 7.30pm The Deacons have their first meeting of the year.

Tuesday

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is starting up again for a new year this Tuesday at 9:30 am, in the church. (Cost is $50 per term.)

+ 7.15pm for a cuppa and at 7.30pm the first Bible Study for the year. The Bible & Chats Group meets in the Village Well and studies the Scripture that will be the focus in the next Sunday’s sermon. Questions are available beforehand. Ask for a copy. Convener: Geoff Pound.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 8 February at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Keith Dyer          Preacher: Eddie Chapman

+ Scripture: Joshua 22:1-6

+ Theme: Walking in God’s Ways—Second in our series ‘Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter.’

+ The Rev Colin Hunter and his companion, Margaret, plan to attend our morning service at Box Hill at 10am next Sunday on February 8. Colin will take part in an eight-minute interview as part of the service. This will focus on remembering and celebrating the ministry of the church while Colin and Jenny were at Box Hill from 1990-1996. Colin is especially looking forward to meeting up over morning tea with people who were at Box Hill in the Hunter years. Do invite former members and friends who were here in the nineties to come next Sunday.

Worship Roster

The Record – 25 January 2026

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday at 10am, we come together at our monthly, informal Last Breakfast service.

Over good food and good company, we’ll be celebrating ‘Australian Stories’.

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman 

Community News

+ Celebrating 125 Years!

This year is the 125th anniversary of the Box Hill Baptist Church as a community.

In August of last year, we celebrated 100 years since the opening of the red brick sanctuary.

We are planning some special events during our Church Anniversary weekend which is scheduled for the 16-18 October 2026 (please reserve these dates in your calendar). This weekend will include a Morning Service of Thanksgiving and also a time to launch the history book that Lorraine Mitchell has been writing.

We are planning some segments in church services (often on the second Sunday of each month) when we invite a former pastor or member and their family to attend. We will usually interview them about their time at Box Hill Baptist. We also want to send a special letter of invitation to people who attended BHBC during the years when that person was a pastor, a church leader etc. These will be Back to Box Hill Baptist Church Sundays and it will give visitors returning a chance to catch up with our returning guests over morning tea in the Barn.

The Rev Colin Hunter plans to attend our morning service at Box Hill at 10am on February 8 and he will take part in an eight-minute interview as part of the service. This will focus on remembering and celebrating the ministry of the church while Colin and Jenny were at Box Hill from 1990-1996.

If you would like to ensure that certain former members and friends who attended BHBC receive a letter of invitation to this first event on 8 February when Colin Hunter will be present, please give the names and contact details to Eddie Chapman as soon as possible.

+ Lyn Pound writes: “After two very happy years of running our church Playgroup, we have decided not to continue for 2026. By the end of 2025, our numbers had dropped and the remaining children were transitioning to kinder or childcare. We have greatly appreciated the enthusiastic help of our volunteers: Su, Barbara and Geoff, but also earlier on, Sonya and Mina. A huge thanks to you all!”

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is getting underway on Tuesday 3 February at 9.30am in our church sanctuary. Newcomers are especially welcome.

+ Thank you for Christmas Gifts 2025. Note from Meredith Beaton, Pastoral Worker for Jubilee Housing to Box Hill Baptist Church: “We wish to thank you for the kindness shown towards the children who are a part of Jubilee Housing. We received a wonderful variety of gifts for those in our Box Hill and Burwood housing complexes. They were distributed and received with joy and excitement. We are thankful to have such great support from BHBC along with our other partner churches. Please know you have made a big difference to these families at a time when life can be challenging. Thank you to the Box Hill Baptist Church Community for your ongoing support of our program.”

+ World Leprosy Day (today, Sunday 25 January 2026) is recognised around the world as an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and celebrate progress. Check out the Leprosy Mission Australia website to learn about progress in the fight to end leprosy, to donate and to discover projects you can support. Some things to pray for:

  • Churches and prayer partners — that together we may continue to bring God’s healing and justice to life.
  • People still waiting for diagnosis or treatment — that they may find healing and hope.
  • Those living with stigma and rejection — that they may experience acceptance and love.
  • Community workers and health staff — that they may serve with strength and compassion.
  • The Leprosy Mission’s work worldwide — that it may be effective, loving, and guided by God’s wisdom.

+ Like to be part of a Small Discussion Group in 2026?

In the first week of February we resume our Small Groups after the Christmas holiday period. So far, we have a Know Your Bible that meets on Zoom on Tuesdays every fortnight and a Bible & Chats Group that meets on Tuesday nights in the Village Well which looks at the Scripture for the next Sunday. Have a think and let us know what you’d prefer in terms of a study, the day of the week and whether it is daytime or evening. We may be able to assemble some new groups.

Food for Thought

+ Jody Ray writes about the Mercy hospital ship on which Australian medical experts volunteer to bring health care to people in need, ‘The Hope Ship,’ ABC, 18 January 2026

Coming Soon:

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 1 February at 10am.

+ Walking with God: First in our new series “Dust to Dawn: Walking into Easter”

+ Scripture: Genesis 3:1-13

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman + Preacher: Geoff Pound

+ Includes our monthly Communion service, and offering of non-perishable food items for the community through Box Hill Community Information & Support.

Worship Roster

The Record – 18 January 2025

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 18 January at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Lorraine MItchell. Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Isaiah 61:1-4

+ Theme: ‘Questing for Beauty in Difficult Times.’ Third and final in the ‘Beauty That Saves’ series.

+ Your Input: Geoff would love your input for this Sunday’s sermon. What song do you play (or hum) to lift your spirits when you are going through difficult times? Send your reply to him asap at geoffpound@gmail.com or text to his phone at 0417 485 200. He won’t quote you by name but he is interested to know how a piece of music can keep you afloat. Accompany your choice of song with a brief explanation if you wish.

Order of Service

  • Call to worship
  • Hymn 121: For the beauty of the earth
  • Prayer
  • Song: Colourful Creator
  • Welcome & Community News
  • Offering
  • Bible reading: Isaiah 61:1-4
  • Song: Daring Dancing Trinity
  • Sermon
  • Pastoral Prayers
  • Song: Beauty for Brokenness
  • Benediction

Community News

+ Church member, Raymond Chow, has advised that his REJOICE Chinese Christian Communication Centre has recently moved to the new address of Unit 1&2, 20 Station Street, Nunawading 3131. From this base, Raymond and his team will continue to support Chinese migrants in Australia through various events, the publication of an online newspaper-Sameway, the sale of books, radio broadcasts and more, in seeking to address not only spiritual needs but the social, economic and cultural challenges new Chinese migrants face in Australia. Pray for Raymond and his team in this new chapter.

+ Do keep in your prayers, Jim and Jane Barr, (Jim is a former Box Hill pastor and they are still members of Box Hill Baptist), who live in Walkerville by the waters of Bass Strait in South Gippsland. Jim has taken up a position as Supply Minister for two days a week with the Corner Inlet Uniting Church and Jane is serving on the Church Council. This involves three congregations meeting at Foster, Fish Creek and Tarwin Lower. The Fish Creek and Tarwin Lower congregations are “Union Churches” with members from many different denominations and pastoral leadership from Uniting Church and Anglican clergy (and one stray Baptist “in UCA clothing”!)

“It’s a tough gig,” says Jim. “We are very small and ageing congregations and I have to drive 20-30 kilometres from home through rolling green hills and magnificent seascapes to get to any of the churches. A round trip to all three is about 100 km on the road, but there are excellent cafés scattered through the region to host pastoral encounters.”

+ On another matter, Jim writes: “The Gippsland Camino from April 16-19 involves a pilgrim walk along the Great Southern Rail Trail. If you would like to be involved with the Camino, or make your own personal pilgrimage in one of the most beautiful corners of the state, or share in other ways in the ministry of these Christian communities, please contact Jim (042 546 2277, jimbarr55@gmail.com ).”

+ Annually, Aboriginal Sunday is celebrated the Sunday before January 26 (this year the 25th January), as an opportunity for individuals and congregations to stand in solidarity and pray for justice and the flourishing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Check out resources from Common Grace to foster deep listening and learning.

+ World Leprosy Day (on Sunday 25 January 2026) is recognised around the world as an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and celebrate progress. Check out the Leprosy Mission Australia website to learn about progress in the fight to end leprosy, to donate and to discover projects you can support. Some things to pray for:

  • People still waiting for diagnosis or treatment — that they may find healing and hope.
  • Those living with stigma and rejection — that they may experience acceptance and love.
  • Community workers and health staff — that they may serve with strength and compassion.
  • The Leprosy Mission’s work worldwide — that it may be effective, loving, and guided by God’s wisdom.
  • Churches and prayer partners — that together we may continue to bring God’s healing and justice to life.

+ Every Sunday, our Sound & Video volunteers work to make sure that everyone can hear, see, and participate in our worship services – both in the church building and at home. We’d love to have a few more volunteers who could learn some new skills and share that responsibility – So if you’re keen, speak to Eddie as we’ll be organising some training sessions early in the year.

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 25 January at 10am.

+ The Last Breakfast: Eating breakfast or brunch around the tables (bring food to share); A great opportunity to discuss with others.

+ Led by Eddie Chapman.

Worship Roster

The Record – 11 January 2025

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 11 January at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Keith Dyer; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Genesis 1:28-31

+ Theme: ‘Encountering Beauty: Where Does Beauty Dwell?

Order of Service

  • Acknowledgment of Country and Call to worship
  • Song: Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness
  • Prayer of gathering and confession
  • Welcome & Community News
  • Song: I lift my eyes to the quiet hills
  • Offering and prayer
  • Beauty Spot
  • Bible Reading: Genesis 1:28-31
  • Song: Taking Shape in God’s Creation
  • Sermon
  • Song: All things bright and beautiful.
  • Prayers for the World
  • Benediction: Deep stillness

Community News

+ People News: Recently Pat Paul has been in the Box Hill Hospital for tests but is currently in the Wantirna Health Hospital (Building B, Level 3, Bed 23). Pat’s mobile number: 0404 500 331; Meriel Barber has had a stay in the Box Hill Hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia but she is back now at Surrey Hills Garden Care Community, 9-17 Broughton Rd, Surrey Hills (Second floor, Room 6). Her mobile number: 0402 550 690.

+ A note of thanks from the Kedem Jewish congregation:

On behalf of the Kedem congregation I write to thank you for your moving support of the Kedem community after the terrible Bondi events. Your messages will be distributed to our membership. As Jewish Australians it is very reassuring to know that the rest of the Australian community is as concerned and affected by the Bondi situation as we are. Although the terrorists specifically attacked members of the Jewish community, in reality they attacked every thinking Australian, be they Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Muslim or atheist. Please convey to your members our appreciation of the good wishes and compassionate thoughts of your congregation. (Julian Rood, Kedem President)

+ Annually, Aboriginal Sunday is celebrated the Sunday before January 26 (this year the 25th January), as an opportunity for individuals and congregations to stand in solidarity and pray for justice and the flourishing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Check out resources from Common Grace to foster deep listening and learning.

+ World Leprosy Day (on Sunday 25 January 2026) is recognised around the world as an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and celebrate progress. Check out the Leprosy Mission Australia website to learn about progress in the fight to end leprosy, to donate and to discover projects you can support. Some things to pray for:

  • People still waiting for diagnosis or treatment — that they may find healing and hope.
  • Those living with stigma and rejection — that they may experience acceptance and love.
  • Community workers and health staff — that they may serve with strength and compassion.
  • The Leprosy Mission’s work worldwide — that it may be effective, loving, and guided by God’s wisdom.
  • Churches and prayer partners — that together we may continue to bring God’s healing and justice to life.

+ Every Sunday, our Sound & Video volunteers work to make sure that everyone can hear, see, and participate in our worship services – both in the church building and at home. We’d love to have a few more volunteers who could learn some new skills and share that responsibility – So if you’re keen, speak to Eddie as we’ll be organising some training sessions early in the year.

+ Check out the courses available at Whitley College this year.

Coming soon

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 11 January at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Lorraine Mitchell; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Isaiah 61:1-4

+ Service Theme: ‘Questing for beauty in difficult times’

Worship Roster

The Record – 4 January 2025

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 4 January at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Shueh Wah; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Psalm 27:1-14

+ Theme: ‘Beauty: More Than Meets the Eye’. First in the Beauty That Saves series.

Order of Service

  • Call to Worship
  • Prayer for the Gathering
  • Song – One More Step
  • Welcome and Community News
  • Offering
  • Reading – Psalm 27: 1-14
  • Song – Be Thou My Vision
  • Sermon – Beauty: More Than Meets the Eye
  • Song – Jesus calls us here to meet Him
  • Communion
  • Prayers for the Community
  • Song – Christ be our Light
  • Benediction 

Coming soon

This Week

Monday

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time.

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn (Last one for the year).

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 11 January at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Keith Dyer; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Genesis 1:28-31

+ Service Theme: ‘Encountering Beauty’: Where does beauty dwell?

Worship Roster

The Record – 21 December 2025

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 21 December at 10am – Fourth Sunday in Advent.

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman; Preacher: Sue McDonald.

+ Scripture: John 1:1-13

+ Theme: ‘Love that Arrives’ in our Advent Series ‘The Light We Carry’.

Order of Service

  • Call to Worship 
  • Song: Christmas is Near
  • Community News
  • Prayer & Offering
  • Song: In Bethlehem
  • Bible Reading: John 1:1-13
  • Song: Infant Holy
  • Sermon (Sue McDonald)
  • Song: Nothing is lost on the love of God
  • Prayers & Candle lighting
  • Song: Born in the night, Mary’s child
  • Benediction.

Community News

+ We grieve with those who are suffering and afraid as a result of the targeting of Jewish people celebrating Hanukkah at Bondi Beach last Sunday evening. Pray for the families of the victims and the Jewish community in Australia and beyond that they may know the comfort and peace of God in these difficult days.

+ Eversley Farnbach has made the decision, along with her family, to move to Casterton to live with two of her sons, Tony and Ian. Eversley will leave Melbourne some time in February which gives us and her a little time to get used to this news. She says that she will miss her beloved church and all that goes with it (music, choir, Bible & Chat, soirées and more). We will miss Eversley but we will look forward to her frequent visits to Melbourne.

+ In January, in a month of Sundays, we’ll be embarking on a sermon series on the subject and practice of drinking in beauty.

+ A service of thanksgiving was held last Wednesday for Grazia Sedawie’s mother, Beverley Ruth Sidari. Pray for Grazia and Jon, their siblings, children and clan as they grieve in this season of celebration.

+ Thanks to the Box Hill Community Choir for their recent public performances at the Mont Albert Village last Friday and at Box Hill Central last Tuesday.

+ Congratulations to Dr. Shueh Wah Kennedy as she officially received her Doctorate this week after many years of hard work!

Food for Thought and Action

+ Pray for peace along the Thai-Cambodian border, protection and provision for families as 400,000 people have been evacuated, wisdom for political leaders and comfort for those experiencing fear and uncertainty.

+ Keep up your connections in the new year. For older adults, social connection is one of the strongest predictors of brain health, with evidence it lowers dementia risk and slows cognitive decline, AARP says.

+ The poet, Luci Shaw,who wroteseveral volumes of poetry, many of which were on spiritual themes, died earlier this month at the age of96. Here is one of the tributes.

+ Check out Hugh Mackay, talking about his new book, ‘Just Saying’ [a Christmas gift idea?] and offering some reflections on Australian society in 2025. He offered these views on Monday Matters with Ian Bunston last Monday.

Coming soon

+ Christmas Day service – Thursday 25 December – 9:30am

+ Last Breakfast service – Sunday 28 December – 10am: Join us for our last Last Breakfast of the year, and bring those Christmas leftovers!

This Week

Monday

+ 2pm-5pm Bike Restoration and Rescue Session at the Community Shed: (rear 470 Station St, Box Hill) – The Bike sessions will be on hiatus over January, and returning in February.

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 28 December at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman; 

Worship Roster

The Record – 14 December 2025

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 14 December at 10am Third Sunday in Advent.

+ Worship Leader: Shueh Wah; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Luke 2: 1-20.

+ Theme: ‘Joy That Surprises’ in our Advent Series ‘The Light We Carry’.

Order of Service

  • Call to Worship 
  • Opening Prayer
  • Song: Joy to the World
  • Community News
  • Offering
  • Song: Mary’s Boy Child
  • Reading – Luke 2:1-20
  • Song: Hark the Herald Angels Sing
  • Sermon : Geoff
  • Prayers for our World
  • Song: God’s Surprise
  • Benediction

Community News

+ We express our love and sympathy to Grazia Sedawie, her husband Jon, family & loved ones following the death of Grazia’s mother earlier this week. The funeral service will be held at Tobin Brothers Doncaster (816 Doncaster Rd) next Wednesday, 17th December at 2pm.

+ At a brief Church Members meeting after our worship service in the sanctuary last Sunday, 7 December, members voted to adopt a new constitution for the Box Hill Baptist Church and they expressed thanks to the committee who had led us through this process over the last two years.

+ Due to other commitments, Box Hill Community Choir leader Carolyn Bunston will be laying down her baton. Choir organiser, Ian Bunston, is on the lookout for a new choir leader. Let him know if you have suggestions.

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is singing some Christmas carols at the Mont Albert Village Heritage Plaza this Friday 12th between 6.30pm-7.30pm. They would love it if you can roll along to swell their numbers and boost their volume to passers-by and the many others who will be present. The choir’s carolling will be part of the ‘Mont Albert Village Twilight Jazz Carols’, which is held in collaboration with the Whitehorse City Council. It runs between 6.30pm-8.30pm and will involve various music groups, shopping stalls and a visit from Santa—”fun and affordable events for all ages.” Link for more info.

+ The Bible & Chats Group finished the year with a delicious shared meal last Tuesday night. The weekly group will resume on the first Tuesday in February 2026—the 3rd—at 7.15pm for a cuppa preceding the 7.30pm-8.45pm study of the Scripture passage for the following Sunday. Study notes with the Scripture and questions are always prepared and distributed beforehand. The group is open and would like to extend an invitation to people looking for a small group in 2026. Pastors (Eddie and Geoff) would like to hear about your desires and hopes for the new year, whether it might be to engage with the 10 week, Exploring Faith group, create a new Bible & Chats group using the same study questions but scheduled on another day or night or whether you have thoughts about a new small group with a totally different focus.

+ The Christmas Day Service on Thursday 25 December will commence at 9.30am and go for approximately 45 minutes.

+ After 4 and a half years of the Community Bakehouse, where we’ve saved tonnes of food from landfill to help feed our neighbours instead, the opportunity that we’ve helped create has got the attention of the Victorian Government, as we’ve received a Local Food grant to help expand the Bakehouse concept to an additional 5 locations in collaboration with other local churches and community groups. This will help spread the load that we’re currently experiencing and make food available to more people across our region.

Food for Thought and Action

+ “The demand of the secular ‘Christmas Season’ is to be in a great hurry, but the aim of Advent is to instil a quiet slowness into our soul.” Brian Zahnd

+ Take a look at the 2026 Programme Guide from the WellSpring Spirituality Centre.

+ “I took a deep breath. I said, ‘Here we go Lord. You’re in charge and you lead the way.’” Pope Leo on when he realised the votes were going his way during the conclave that elected him. Read about this rare interview (and the book that has had a great influence on him) or listen to him being interviewed and explaining his spirituality.

Coming soon

This Week

Monday

+ 2pm-5pm Bike Restoration and Rescue Session at the Community Shed: (rear 470 Station St, Box Hill).

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Tuesday

+ 9.30am – Tuesday 9.30am: The final practice of the Box Hill Community Choir will be short as the choir will be singing at Box Hill Central between 10am-11am and then celebrating a good year of singing and community over coffee in a nearby cafe. They’d love you to encourage them (and others) with your attendance and join them for coffee afterwards.

Wednesday

+ Nandos staff are again providing a Christmas lunch and servers in the Barn for many of the people who come to the Bakehouse. For more information speak to Lynne Dyer.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: The Social Chat Gathering continues at this time, week by week but will be taking a break on Thursday December 25 (Christmas Day) and Thursday (New Year’s Day).

+ 10am-12pm: English Conversation Classes in the Barn. Convenor: Lynne Dyer

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn (Last one for the year).

+ 6:30pm – Community Dinner in the Barn

+ 9pm – Carols Service in the Church.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 21 December at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman; Preacher: Sue McDonald.

+ Scripture: John 1:1-14

+ Service Theme: ‘Love That Arrives’ in our Advent Series ‘The Light We Carry’.

Worship Roster

The Record – 7 December 2025

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday 7 December at 10am – Second Sunday in Advent.

+ Our monthly Communion Service.
+ Worship Leader: Lorraine Mitchell; Preacher: Geoff Pound.
+ Scripture: Luke 1: 46-55.
+ Service Theme: ‘Peace that Disturbs’ in our Advent Series ‘The Light We Carry’.
+ Being the first Sunday of the month our offering will include non-perishable food items for the needy in our area.
+ A special Church Meeting follows the service in the sanctuary with a vote (no discussion) to adopt our new church constitution and thank our constitution committee for their work over these last two years.

Order of Service

  • Call to Worship : 
  • Hymn 139  Come thou long expected Jesus
  • Scripture: Luke 1: 39-56
  • Advent Ritual (Eddie)
  • Song: Dream a dream, a hopeful dream
  • Community News
  • Offering (Including non-perishable items)
  • Song: Deep in the Spirit your Song
  • Sermon : Geoff
  • Song: Wait for the Lord (Taize)
  • Communion
  • Pastoral prayers
  • Remembering those for whom Christmas is tough
    Candle lighting     – M
  • Hymn 149: There’s a light upon the mountain
  • Benediction

Community News

+ Margot Firth-Smith is home and recovering well after her stay in hospital.

+ We pray God’s blessing for Hong and Ang as they travel to Cambodia this weekend to visit their family and friends.

+ Our Deacons met this week and enjoyed an End of Year-Christmas shared meal before their meeting. They appointed visitors to meet with people seeking church membership (let us know if you’d like to know more about church membership), they noted the Dinner (6.30pm) and Carols (9pm) on Saturday 20 December, the Nandos Christmas Lunch with those who come to the Bakehouse and others at midday on 17 December, they decided to create and refresh church policies, they discussed the report from the Building Feasibility Committee and they set dates for Church Meetings in 2026 (22/2; 24/5; 23/8; 15/11-AGM). Please pray for God’s guidance as in 2026 we may make decisions about our buildings.

+ Barbara Davison will celebrate her 80th birthday on December 22nd this year, and her family will provide a light lunch in the Barn after the service on Sunday, 21st of December. Everyone is invited.

+ After 4 and a half years of the Community Bakehouse, where we’ve saved tonnes of food from landfill to help feed our neighbours instead, the opportunity that we’ve helped create has got the attention of the Victorian Government, as we’ve received a Local Food grant to help expand the Bakehouse concept to an additional 5 locations in collaboration with other local churches and community groups. This will help spread the load that we’re currently experiencing and make food available to more people across our region.

Food for Thought and Action

+ Kelsey McGinnis, ‘The Current No. 1 Christian Artist Has No Soul’ [because Solomon Ray is AI generated] Christianity Today, 21 November 2025.

+ Suleika Jaouad, ‘The Gospel According to Dogs,’ The Corners, 29 November 2025.

+ James Emery White writes about C S Lewis in ‘A Most-Converted Man,’ Church & Culture, 1 December 2025.

Coming soon

This Week

Monday

+ 2pm-5pm Bike Restoration and Rescue Session at the Community Shed: (rear 470 Station St, Box Hill).

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Tuesday

+ 9.30am – The Box Hill Community Choir meets in the church followed by morning tea in the Gallery.

+ Tuesday 6:30pm: The finale for the Bible & Chat Group is a shared meal at Eversley’s home.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: Social Chat Group. Everybody is welcome.

+ 10am-12pm: English Conversation Classes in the Barn. Convenor: Lynne Dyer

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 10am-11.30am The final Playgroup gathering for the year in the Barn.

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

+ 6.30pm-7.30pm: The Box Hill Community Choir is singing in the Mont Albert Village.

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 14 December at 10am.

+ Worship Leader: Shueh Wah; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Luke 2: 8-20.

+ Service Theme: ‘Joy That Surprises’ in our Advent Series ‘The Light We Carry’.

Worship Roster

The Record – 30 November 2025

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday, 30 November at 10am

+ The Last Breakfast: Come for breakfast/brunch and worship. Bring enough food to share with our guests.
 
+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman
 
+ Members of the Box Hill Community Choir will be singing.
 
+ Service Theme: The first in our Advent Series, ‘The Light We Carry,’ entitled ‘Hope That Begins in the Dark.
 
+ Scriptures: Isaiah 9: 2-7; Luke 1: 26-38.

Community News

+ Christmas at Jubilee Housing. This Sunday (30 November) is the last day to bring gifts for children. In the middle of December, leaders of Jubilee Housing will hold a Christmas party at each housing complex and distribute the gifts to the children. Please bring the gifts unwrapped with the gift tag attached. Thanks to all those who have purchased gifts. All the gift tags have been taken. If you didn’t take a gift tag and you’d like to give money, please put it in an envelope or give it electronically marked: Jubilee Housing Christmas Gift.

+ Baptist World Aid has some Christmas gifts that are meaningful, ethical and fun, especially for the family member who has everything or the friend who is passionate about building a better world. Check out the alternative Christmas presents (a piglet, a bee hive or a goat) from Baptist World Aid.

+ Our new Exploring Faith study series commenced last Wednesday night. It’s been a intriguing journey as we tested the new course materials, got some invaluable feedback, and all shared in some remarkable explorations of what it means (and doesn’t mean!) to be a follower of Christ in the modern world. If you’d be interested in Exploring Faith with us in the new year, speak to Eddie as we’d be happy to run this 10 week course again.

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is practising for the following gigs:

  • Friday Dec 12 at the Mont Albert Village from 6.30-8.30pm
  • Tuesday Dec 16 at Box Hill Central from 9.30-11am

+ Invitation to be Members of Box Hill Baptist Church: One or two people have recently registered their interest in becoming members of our church. This is a pledge of commitment that people make to the church and the church to them. It also means that people can participate fully in the life and direction of the church by voting at Church Meetings and standing for various positions. Speak to Eddie or Geoff or one of the Deacons if you’d like to join them.

Food for Thought and Action

+ 1700 years ago bishops and an emperor wrote a creed about what Christians believe. Millions still recite it in churches around the world, AP, 21 November 2025.

+ In anticipation of Thanksgiving being celebrated in the USA last Thursday, Diana Butler Bass wrote a reflection and a meaningful prayer of thanksgiving that you may wish to ponder and pray. ‘When Gratitude Eludes Us,’ The Cottage, 25 November 2025.

+ Users Turn to ChatGPT for Divine Answers, Sparking New “Digital Faith”: A growing number of people are treating AI like a deity, seeking spiritual guidance and meaning from chatbots that offer authoritative, “all-knowing” responses. Becca Caddy asks: “Does this give any value? What about the risks?” TechRadar, 24 November 2025.

Coming soon

This Week

Monday

+ 2pm-5pm Bike Restoration and Rescue Session at the Community Shed: (rear 470 Station St, Box Hill).

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Tuesday

+ 9.30am – The Box Hill Community Choir meets in the church followed by morning tea in the Gallery.

+ Tuesday 7.15pm for 7.30pm: The Bible & Chats group meets in the Village Well. The Scripture readings is Luke 1: 46-55. The particular Advent theme for this Tuesday and the following Sunday is ‘Peace that Disturbs’.

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: Social Chat Group. Everybody is welcome.

+ 10am-12pm: English Conversation Classes in the Barn. Convenor: Lynne Dyer

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 10am-11.30am Playgroup in the Barn.

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 7 December at 10am.

+ Our monthly Communion Service.

+ Worship Leader: Lorraine Mitchell; Preacher: Geoff Pound.

+ Scripture: Luke 1: 46-55.

+ Service Theme: Peace that Disturbs.

+ Being the first Sunday of the month our offering will include non-perishable food items for the needy in our area.

+ A special Church Meeting follows the service in the sanctuary with a vote (no discussion) to adopt our new church constitution and thank our constitution committee for their work over these last two years.

Worship Roster

The Record – 23 November 2025

eddie

Welcome to Worship

This Sunday, 23 November at 10am

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman; Preacher: Geoff Pound.
 
+ Scriptures: Psalm 46.
 
+ Service and Sermon Theme: ‘Therefore, We Will Not Fear.’

Order of Service

  • Call to worship
  • Hymn: How Firm a Foundation (BPW 380) 
  • Prayer/introduction
  • Hymn: A Mighty Fortress is our God
  • Announcements & Community News
  • Offering & Song: The Lord is my song
  • Reading – Psalm 46
  • Song: Psalm 46 (Tune: Aurelia)
  • Sermon
  • Song: It is well with my soul
  • Pastoral Prayers
  • Song: Today I awake and God is before me
  • Benediction

Community News

+ Thanks to everyone who joined in our Annual General Meeting last week – we joined together in opportunities to share and ask questions about the many programs and activities of our church – which does so much for a church of its size! We also offer our congratulations and appreciation to our newly appointed Deacons. We also briefly discussed the new Constitution, which will be voted on in an upcoming Special General Meeting on the 7th of December, directly after the service.

+ Christmas at Jubilee Housing. This Sunday is the last day to take a Christmas gift tag, purchase a gift and return it on Sunday 30th November. In the middle of December, leaders of Jubilee Housing will hold a Christmas party at each housing complex and distribute the gifts to the children. Please bring the gifts unwrapped with the gift tag attached. If we run out of tags or you’d rather give money, please put it in an envelope or give it electronically marked: Jubilee Housing Christmas Gift.

+ The Box Hill Community Choir is practising for the following gigs:

  • Sunday Nov 30 at Box Hill Baptist Church’s Last Breakfast at 10am
  • Friday Dec 12 at the Mont Albert Village from 6.30-8.30pm
  • Tuesday Dec 16 at Box Hill Central from 9.30-11am

+ Invitation to be Members of Box Hill Baptist Church: One or two people have recently registered their interest in becoming members of our church. This is a pledge of commitment that people make to the church and the church to them. It also means that people can participate fully in the life and direction of the church by voting at Church Meetings and standing for various positions. Speak to Eddie or Geoff or one of the Deacons if you’d like to join them.

Food for Thought and Action

+ The Centre for Public Christianity has a podcast on ‘The World’s Most Popular Book,’ CPX, 13 November 2025.

+ Bible Sales Keep Growing, Religion News, 17 November 2025.

Coming soon

This Week

Monday

+ 2pm-5pm Bike Restoration and Rescue Session at the Community Shed: (rear 470 Station St, Box Hill).

+ 4.30pm-8.30pm Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Tuesday

+ 9.30am – The Box Hill Community Choir meets in the church followed by morning tea in the Gallery.

+ Tuesday 7.15pm for 7.30pm in the Village Well: The Bible & Chats Group will study the Bible lectionary passage for next Sunday viz. Luke 1: 26-38; Convenor: Geoff Pound

Thursday

+ 11am-1pm upstairs in the Village Well: Social Chat Group. Everybody is welcome.

+ 10am-12pm: English Conversation Classes in the Barn. Convenor: Lynne Dyer

+ 1.30pm-2.30pm Bakehouse in the Barn coordinated by Lynne Dyer: Saving bread, fruit and vegetables from waste by giving food to those wanting to ease their weekly budget.

Friday

+ 10am-11.30am Playgroup in the Barn.

+ 4.30-8.30pm: Social Table Tennis (upstairs, 5 Ellingworth Pde)

Saturday

+ 7.30am-8.30am Bakehouse in the Barn.

Small Groups @ BHBC

Box Hill Baptist Church runs a number of small groups which create opportunities to build friendships, study the Bible and other resources, pray and strengthen our spiritual journeys.

If you are interested in any of the groups below, feel welcome to contact the convenor, or speak to one of our pastors. (And if you’d like to be part of a group but these don’t work for you, come and speak to us and we’ll see if we can start something new!)

  • Bible & Chat: Currently each Tuesday, 7:15pm for 7.30pm start at the Village Well (5 Ellingworth Pde). The group normally reflects on a Scripture passage for the following Sunday service. Convenor: Geoff Pound
  • KYB (Know Your Bible): Tuesdays fortnightly via Zoom. (Convenor: Helen Timms)

Next Sunday 23 November at 10am.

+ The Last Breakfast: Come for breakfast/brunch and worship. Bring enough food to share with our guests.

+ Worship Leader: Eddie Chapman

+ Members of the Box Hill Community Choir will be singing.

+ Service Theme: The first in our Advent Series, ‘The Light We Carry,’ entitled ‘Hope That Begins in the Dark.

+ Scriptures: Isaiah 9: 2-7; Luke 1: 26-38.

Worship Roster